The strange thing about the Gran Max (a very basic one-ton workhorse pick-up) is that it is serious fun to drive. You wouldn’t think so, with it’s cute but utilitarian looks, but that 1,5-litre engine is very willing accompanied by a vocal keenness as encouragement to get going.
The lively engine sits under the seats canted to the left to reduce height. The position of the gearshift is close to the steering wheel so rapid shifts are possible. Loaded up with 1 000 kg of concrete did not make much difference to matters with the ride still pretty firm. Just a bit sluggish off the line and the brakes needing more ankle grease.
Pricing is very good for a Japanese bakkie at R119 995 but don’t expect features. Only one sun visor tells a tale. Still, it is fitted with the most important safety feature of all – ABS braking. A full road test in CAR magazine will be coming up soon.
