Are Popular Package and Utility Package Worth it?

whistler · 10-28-2004, 12:56 PM

I am debating on what packages I am going to get on my 05. I am leaning towards the popular pkg (not sure if I want bench of captain) and the utility pkg. I like the look of the side storage box and the bed liner is a must...dont really know what the extra tailgate lighting is all about though. However when I think about it I dont know if they are worth the 2 grand, that money could get me step rails, a grille, tint and exhaust. Any of you have any advice on the packages? Regrets or opinions? From what I understand the popular package gives you power seats and the dimming mirror with compass and temp, and power petals...the cloth on the seats isnt upgraded is it? the sound system is also the same correct? Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks in advance. -chris

Bayou Titan · 10-28-2004, 01:05 PM

You get the Utilitrac system with the Utility package also. This is extremely useful, I couldn't get by without it.

whistler · 10-28-2004, 01:35 PM

I dont think I would need the tie down system very much, I dont really transport a lot of things. What do you use yours for Bayou? What popular package did you go with? Thanks for the reply. -chris

vector6 · 10-28-2004, 02:55 PM

all the extras will help with trade in on a new 2007 model Titan..

daschtick · 10-28-2004, 07:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by whistler

...dont really know what the extra tailgate lighting is all about though.

Either did I until I installed my tonneau cover. Now at night, I can see into the bed after I open the gate, without opening the tonneau cover.

Bayou Titan · 10-28-2004, 07:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by whistler

I dont think I would need the tie down system very much, I dont really transport a lot of things. What do you use yours for Bayou? What popular package did you go with? Thanks for the reply. -chris

The Utili-trac is much more than just a tie down system. You can get a tool box that will slide to the rear of the truck for easy access, a bike mount, Overhead racks, a bed divider that keeps things from rolling around in the bed, and a lot of other stuff.

When I transport a 5 gallon gas can I use the Utili-trac because the tie downs inside the bed are too low and won't prevent the gas can from tipping over. When I transport my dog I tie him to a Utili-trac cleat. When I haul stuff I can put the tie down cleat of the utilitrac exactly where I want it which allows me to secure odd shaped loads much more securely. Other stuff to use on the Utili-trac system is being designed.

The three packages that I have are the Popular, Big Tow, and Utility Bed. I am equally happy with them and glad that I have them.

the head · 10-28-2004, 08:58 PM

I have the exact same options and love it.
The compass isn't a must-have but it was nice having the extra wires to tap into for a clean radar detector install. I like the wheels and chrome bumpers with the pop-pkg. Pedals are just an extra. I have the bench seat and really like having the extra cupholders and room in the front there. I haul bikes and other assorting things around so the utility bed was a big selling point for me. I got the BIG TOW for the gearing and extra cooling capacity rather than for towing, really. The mirrors on the tow package rule, IMO.

mjw357 · 10-28-2004, 08:59 PM

the XE and SE both come with cloth seats, although the fabrics are a little different. the SL comes with leather.

The popular package on the SE gets you a power drivers side seat, manual pass. side. I think you have to go up to the SL to get power on both seats.

I have an SE with popular package, captains chairs. I think it is really comfortable. You asked about the sound system, I have the midgrade one with the 6 CD changer. Definitely not the best car stereo I've owned, but it's OK. If you really like your music, get the cheapest factory system you can and just replace everything.

I am glad I got the utility bed package, it's real nice for hauling stuff, no shortage of tie downs because you can move them where you want them. And the side storage box is handy.

SmokenTitan · 10-28-2004, 09:16 PM

^^ SL in canada? I think your talking about LE's...

Utility Bed is deffinately worth it!!

Popular package WITHOUT Rockford is worth it too!

Cant wait to take min in for the 5th time in 2 months tomorrow, getting some interior pieces replaced (cracked out overhead console, cracking A and B pillers)...

whistler · 10-28-2004, 11:11 PM

Thanks for all the replies, I am leaning toward the poular package so I can get the captains chairs. I dont know if the utility is worth it to me, I think I'd rather get dual exhaust put in. Well I guess the best thing would be to go down to a dealer when 05's are in my area and check it out for myself. Thanks a lot for the quick replies. -chris

Quad T · 10-29-2004, 09:31 AM

The way the packages get tied to other options is my biggest frustration with the Titan. I'll be buying an SE sometime next summer and in all honesty all I want is an SE with Big Tow. But nnnnnnnnnooooooooooooo, I have to pick the Popular Package to get the Big Tow and there is virtually nothing in the package I want, and yet for $1,250 my hands are tied. I don't want some dealer taking apart the whole dash to add the tranny temp gauge so I suspect I will just have to throw away $1,250 to get the Big Tow. And then what makes me even more frustrated is I would like the Utility Package, but if my hands are tied and I have to blow the $1,250, I'm not going to be getting the Utility Package. I bought a new 2002 S2000 so I have to be cost conscience with the Titan purchase...

• 8-way power driver's seat (front bench or captain's chairs)
I'm the only one who drives it, these controls will be used like once in 10 years...
• Steering wheel-mounted audio controls
I don't use the radio much, and when I do I can reach over to the dash
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
I sure don't want that
• Digital compass and outside temperature display
Okay, this is one thing I would like, but would you spend $1,250 for a thermometer???
• HomeLink® Universal Transceiver
Don't know what it is, don't want it
• Power adjustable pedals
I'm the only one who drives it, these controls will be used like once in 10 years...
• Extended overhead center console (Crew Cab only)
Great, I love paying for something I'm not even going to get...
• Dual Media Playback with wireless headphone capability and headphone jacks (Crew Cab only)
Great, I love paying for something I'm not even going to get...
• Rear sónar system with audible warning
I ain't so old I can't turn my neck and look...

SmokenTitan · 10-29-2004, 11:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Quad T

• HomeLink® Universal Transceiver
Don't know what it is, don't want it

If you have a garage you'll love it...

I have mine programmed to home, my parents house and the security gate at work...

subcpo · 10-29-2004, 11:57 AM

Quote:

And the side storage box is handy.

Quote:

mjw357

I am always getting ooohhh's and ahhhhh's about that side storage.
A lot of other truck owners said that they wish their's had it.

Quote:

If you have a garage you'll love it...

Quote:

SmokenTitan

Heck ya...I love it!

Btw...put mud flaps on today...

NMTITAN · 10-29-2004, 02:33 PM

love em both! well worth the money if you ask me. if you really want leather you can get it, I like that very much also.

gstlouis · 10-31-2004, 08:26 PM

I am with Quad_T on the packages. Ideally I would get an XE KC OR, but I want the 9500lb tow rating. I still don't understand what the BT adds that increases the tow rating over the OR package

? Also I would perfer to get one with out a bed liner and then get rhino/line X on my own, but it seams they all come with a drop in liner unless you get the utility package (factory spray in).

It looks like an extra 2k to move up to the SE BT OR.

Greg