As a result, the Mighty Max is a little above average in torque production, and it?s also a little better than average in fuel economy. Both of these are highly attractive traits in a truck that?s likely to work for a living.
A 5-speed manual transmission is standard and a 4-speed automatic transmission is optional. Both are sturdy and easy to live with. Our test truck was equipped with the manual, and that?s what we recommend because it makes the most of the Max?s power. The same can be said for virtually any compact pickup.
Regardless of your transmission choice, though, only rear-wheel drive is available. The 4WD system previously offered was a relatively primitive part-time unit. Its absence probably won?t be missed by the urban work-truck buyers who will most likely be attracted to the Mighty Max.
Those buyers will appreciate the Mighty Max?s suspension system, which plays a key part in this truck?s hefty payload - almost 1600 lb.
The downside of a high a payload rating is some ride harshness. Springs designed to accommodate lots of cargo get pretty bouncy when the cargo box is empty. This tends to improve when there?s some weight back there, but a smooth all-day ride wasn?t part of our Max?s act. Next Page