The Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) has named the diesel-powered 2016 Nissan Titan XD as the Truck of Texas, making it the first time a Nissan truck has earned the title. 

The Cummins 5.0L V-8 Turbo Diesel and Aisin drivetrain that power the new Titan also received the Best Powertrain award, while the Titan XD Pro-4X won best off-road pickup. The Titan XD Platinum Reserve won luxury pickup truck, and Nissan's Murano Platinum won mid-size CUV award.

Ford was named the Truck Line of Texas. Other awards included the 2016 Ford Explorer as the SUV of Texas and the 2016 Volvo XC90 was named CUV of Texas. Additionally, the 2016 Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road, TRD Sport, and TRD Limited were named best mid-size pickups. 

TAWA also gave awards to the 2016 Mercedes-Benz Metris cargo and passenger van for the best commercial vehicle, the 2016 Lexus LX 570 for full-size luxury SUV and the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit 4x4 for mid-size luxury SUV.

The 25th TAWA Truck Rodeo, sponsored by the Steel Market Development Institute (SMDI) was held at the historic Knibbe Ranch near San Antonio from Oct. 7-9. The event was especially competitive this year with 88 vehicles available for 69 TAWA media members to test both on and off road.