Homogeneous and stable dispersion of nanoparticles in polymer matrix remains a significant challenge. Here, we propose a simple and effective route for synthesizing functionalized TiO₂ nanoparticles through oleic acid. The Oleic‐TiO₂ nanoparticles homogeneously dispersed in SBR matrix show remarkable improvement of mechanical properties such as modulus, tensile strength, and fatigue properties, even at low loadings, which are ascribed to the enhanced interfacial bonding with the polymer matrix. Moreover, the incorporation of the Oleic‐TiO₂ into SBR matrix significantly prevents photo and thermal degradation. Therefore, we confirm that our approach can suggest fascinating potentials to be scalable and commercial in polymer engineering. POLYM. COMPOS., 38:E174–E180, 2017. © 2016 Society of Plastics Engineers