Pickup trucks have evolved significantly, transitioning from basic utility vehicles to powerful and versatile machines catering to diverse needs. Manufacturers are even pioneering electric pickups, aiming for emission-free power. However, the quest for ultimate truck ruggedness has a recent history, highlighted by brands competing to build the most robust, heavy-duty vehicles imaginable. Leading this charge in the 2000s was Navistar International with their groundbreaking International Extreme Truck Series.
Drawing inspiration from military tactical vehicles, the International XT series trucks were engineered for unmatched durability. Outperforming standard heavy-duty pickups like the Ford F-250, Ram 2500, GMC Sierra, and Chevy Silverado in terms of sheer toughness, the International Extreme Truck Series carved a unique niche. Ironically, this extreme ruggedness might have contributed to their limited commercial success, a point we’ll explore later.
For now, let’s delve into the International Mxt (Military/Most eXtreme Truck), a standout model within the XT Series. This tactical-inspired truck was specifically adapted for civilian use, debuting in 2007 and embodying the series’ commitment to extreme capability.
The International XT Series: A Lineup of Uncompromising Pickups
The 2007 International XT in action, showcasing its off-road capabilities in mud.
Navistar International’s International Extreme Truck, or XT, series was produced from 2004 to 2008. This lineup featured three formidable heavy-duty pickup trucks: the CXT, RXT, and MXT. Navistar’s ambition was to create the largest pickup trucks on the market, achieving this by essentially converting a prime hauler’s trailer into a consumer pickup. This bold approach resulted in vehicles unlike anything else available.
The first in the series, the CXT, or Commercial Extreme Truck, immediately captured attention. Boasting a curb weight of 14,500 lbs and a gross weight rating of 25,999 lbs, the CXT was a true behemoth. Its weight specifications were unprecedented in North America, narrowly avoiding the requirement for a commercial driver’s license.
The 2007 International XT, highlighting its robust and imposing truck design.
The International CXT was primarily designed for business owners requiring serious towing and hauling power. Powered by a 220-hp DT466 inline-6 turbo-diesel engine, this truck could tow up to an impressive 20 tons. It also featured four-wheel drive and a 5-speed automatic transmission. Surprisingly, for such a heavy-duty commercial vehicle, the CXT also offered a luxurious interior, blending rugged capability with passenger comfort.
In contrast to the CXT’s commercial focus, the RXT, or Recreational Extreme Truck, was introduced in 2005 as a more “sporty” option. Targeting those who towed horse trailers, boats, or RVs, the RXT featured a pickup or low-profile utility bed and a four-door crew cab.
Equipped with a 230-hp turbo-diesel V8 engine, a 5-speed automatic transmission, and weighing in at 20,500 lbs, the RXT offered a towing capacity of 12 tons. While not as heavy as the CXT, the RXT claimed the title of the longest pickup truck in North America, further cementing the XT series’ reputation for extreme dimensions.
International MXT: Military Roots for Civilian Roads
The International Military/Most eXtreme Truck, showcasing its civilian adaptation and street presence.
Finally, in 2007, the Military/Most eXtreme Truck, or International MXT, was launched. This model was the civilian iteration of the International MXT-MV, built with the same extreme ethos as its predecessors but on a slightly smaller chassis. The MXT housed a 6-liter turbo-diesel V8 engine producing 325 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque, and weighed approximately 10,500 pounds. Despite being smaller and lighter than the CXT and RXT, the International MXT remained a formidable machine.
Navistar utilized the CXT cab for the MXT but positioned it 17 inches lower to the ground. They also optimized ground clearance with a redesigned hood and front fenders. Furthermore, off-road tires and a custom-built pickup bed replaced the commercial components of the CXT, tailoring the MXT for adventure and off-road performance. This third model in the XT lineup truly embodied the concept of a military-grade civilian vehicle, designed for the most demanding tasks and environments.
The International Military/Most eXtreme Truck for sale at Mecum auction, highlighting its collectible status.
However, despite their impressive specifications and unique positioning, sales of the XT trucks, including the International MXT, did not meet expectations. The reality was that the market for such exceptionally robust and heavy vehicles was limited. Fuel economy also likely played a role in their lack of widespread popularity. The MXT, weighing over 10,500 pounds, had a notably short driving range even with its 40-gallon fuel tank – and the CXT and RXT fared even worse.
Although the XT series attracted celebrity owners like Ashton Kutcher, Russel J. Young, and Jay Leno, the entire lineup was ultimately discontinued relatively quickly. For enthusiasts of these extraordinary pickups, including the International MXT, there is a silver lining. These trucks occasionally appear for sale, often at auction sites. If you’re looking for a vehicle that is truly unlike any other in terms of sheer size and ruggedness, exploring auction sites might lead you to an International MXT. However, be prepared – these beastly pickup trucks rarely come cheap, reflecting their rarity and unique place in automotive history.
