Most people would be forgiven for instinctively associating the one-ton pick-up market with the likes of the Toyota Hilux and Nissan NP300, but Daihatsu aims to alter that perception with its compact, yet capable, Gran Max.By Gareth Dean
Despite its relatively diminutive proportions (4,2 m long and 1,67 m wide), the Gran Move plays host to a 2 350 x 1 585 mm flat load bed with drop-side panels and a loading height of just 720 mm. But the Daihatsu’s trump card is a genuine 1-ton payload – considerably more than other pick-ups in its price range (think Ford Bantam and Opel Corsa Utility).
The Gran Max features a cab-forward layout with the engine situated below the passenger seats ensuring optimal weight distribution. Power is provided by a lightly-revised version of the 1,5-litre petrol unit from the Terios compact SUV. This unit develops 77 kW and 140 N.m of torque, while its lower gearing ensures the Gran Max is quick off the mark. Stopping power is augmented by an ABS-aided braking system which is a standard feature on all Gran Max models.
As the engine shares a great deal of its components with other models in the Daihatsu range, parts availability and servicing is relatively inexpensive. Combine this with the engine’s reputation for durability and the Gran Max makes a good case for those seeking a reliable, compact workhorse for small business use. It’s also a fairly frugal engine, returning a fuel economy figure of 7,5 litres/100 km.
Being a workhorse, the interior of the Gran Max is somewhat Spartan compared with the likes of the Corsa/Bantam, but it offers a good view of the road, adjustable seats and presents a simple but effective facia with a dash-mounted gear lever that helps free up more space in what is already a fairly accommodating cabin.
“The Gran Max towers above the competition in loading capacity, dependability, durability, and all other aspects,” said Daihatsu’s Executive Chief Engineer of their Compact Car Product Planning Division, Mr. Kazutoshi Salamoto. It certainly gives the competition something to think about price-wise, costing just R119 995.