International MXT: The Heavy-Duty Pickup That Redefines Commercial Luxury

A First-Hand Experience With International's Flagship Pickup

At a recent major auto exhibition, our team had the exclusive opportunity to test drive the then-upcoming International MXT - a vehicle that blurs the line between commercial workhorse and luxury statement piece. This imposing pickup enters the market with a starting price of $89,500 for the base 4×4 model, climbing to over $130,000 for the premium Limited edition featuring top-tier appointments.

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Surprising Maneuverability for Its Size

Navigating tight urban streets behind a major convention center, the MXT demonstrated unexpected agility. While its massive footprint suggests it would dominate both lanes, the truck maintained excellent lane discipline with precise steering feedback. Visibility proved better than anticipated, with the high seating position offering clear sightlines to the front corners - a crucial advantage for urban operation.

The oversized side mirrors provided exceptional rear visibility though they slightly compromised direct side views. A standard rearview camera system effectively addressed blind spots when reversing, a necessity for a vehicle of this scale.

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Performance That Commands Respect

Braking System With a Learning Curve

The MXT's hydraulic brake system delivers immediate stopping power that initially feels aggressive. After several stops, drivers adapt to the precise pedal pressure required for smooth deceleration. This characteristic is typical of heavy-duty commercial vehicles where immediate brake response is prioritized over gradual modulation.

Effortless Acceleration

In contrast to the brakes, the accelerator pedal offers intuitive, car-like response. Power delivery from the International V-8 diesel (shared with Ford's Super Duty line) is immediate and linear, making the substantial weight nearly imperceptible during acceleration.

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Commercial-Grade Capabilities

The MXT isn't designed for casual buyers - it's engineered for serious work:

• 17,000-pound maximum towing capacity - Handles the heaviest trailers and equipment
• 4,400-pound payload rating - Carries more than most competitors
• Commercial-duty chassis - Built for continuous heavy use
• Diesel powertrain - Optimized for torque and longevity
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Interior: Spacious With Quirks

The cabin offers generous space throughout, particularly in the rear where three adults can sit comfortably without knee contact. However, some testers noted the driver's seat positioning felt unusually high and close to the steering wheel, potentially causing thigh discomfort during extended operation.

Early test models exhibited significant engine noise in the front cabin due to missing sound baffling - a feature International confirmed would be present in production units.

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Who Should Consider the MXT?

This isn't a vehicle for occasional use:

• Commercial operators needing extreme towing/hauling
• Construction businesses requiring mobile branding
• Specialty vehicle upfitters needing a robust platform
• Luxury work truck buyers wanting ultimate capability

The MXT's sheer size makes urban parking challenging, though its imposing presence creates unmatched roadside visibility - particularly when customized with company branding like the Chicago Bears-themed unit displayed at the show.

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Technical Specifications

Final Verdict

The International MXT delivers exactly what it promises - extreme capability in a package that commands attention. While its commercial focus and substantial size limit its appeal to general consumers, businesses needing maximum towing and payload capacity with luxury appointments will find it unmatched. The driving experience requires some adaptation, particularly to the aggressive brake response, but ultimately provides confident control of this heavy-duty machine.

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