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This Ain't No Paperboy's Cushman

If "Cushman" brings to mind the two-speed Eagle scooter of the 1960s, or the three-wheel traffic hazard the Postal Service once used, you need to take a second look at the company's new 1600XD Hauler as a recent entry in the crowded utility vehicle market.

We've had a Patriot Blue (almost black until you look closely) at our place for the last month and have found it to be a formidable competitor to the more traditional brands of side-by-sides we've driven.

This nearly street-legal machine (you can order it to comply with traffic codes) came with a windshield, turn signals, high-and low beams, brake and taillights, a horn and windshield wiper. Our particular test vehicle also had a cab with front-opening doors to accommodate the ample bench seat inside. While the cab would be an excellent addition where rough winters are routine, we thought it was pretty hot in June/July in Oklahoma, particularly with windows that only slide open about 5 inches. We'd probably opt out of the cab here, but could see its value in many other parts of the country. The cab also holds in a lot of the engine noise, which wouldn't be a problem in a cabless model.

Powering the 1600XD is a 1007 cc., three-cylinder, Daedong diesel engine that lights right up and idles well until you ask it to pull or push -- and then it's ALL THERE! Running torque through a two-range CVT transmission, this package is stout! When you add in selectable 4WD and a locking rear differential and limited-slip ratios up front, it's hard to imagine what you'd have to get into that would stick the Hauler. We didn't challenge the off-road capabilities of this Cushman during our tests, but I wouldn't be hesitant to take it mountaineering on any OHV trail I've seen in the Rockies.  You could go a long way, too, on the 7.4 gallon diesel fuel tank located amidships.