Tata Sumo – Sumo wrestler!

The current new Tata Sumo has its parentage linked to generations of its previous models, the first being launched in India in the year 1994. It’s been on our roads for quite a while now. Until some few years back, it shared stiff competition with Toyota Qualis, and now its rival is the Chevrolet Tavera. Tata Sumo is evidently a favourite among touristic cab owners for its value for money, and ease of handling on rugged terrains.

Engine & Power-train

The engine is mounted longitudinally and is of diesel kind.  It’s a 4 pot cylinder having displacement of 1948cc, with bore-stroke ratio of 80/90. This configuration effectively pumps put power of 67bhp @ 45000 rpm and a torque of 117.5Nm @ 2500rpm.

The new Sumo though, is engineered to have a 2.2L Direct Injection Common Rail engine, which the Tata badges as DICOR. This delivers 118bhp of power and is linked to a 5 speed manual transmission.

Ride & Handling

Built with an independent suspension with attached coil spring and anti-roll bar at front, & leaf spring in the rear, better road sense is presumed from the new Sumo. The shocks are dampened by hydraulic dampers. It does justice on rough roads, but it isn’t a true off-roader in the truest sense of the word.

Unlike the Grande, TATA has done little in the new Sumo as far as NVH (noise – vibration – harshness ) goes. Also, it has been found that there is visible body roll during harshest sudden breakingand tight cornering. Overall, the breaks are consistently good, over previous generation models. The ruggedness it provides goes good as an excellent choice for commercial carrier.

Design, Styling & Comfort

Keeping the old looks alive, and as a foundation for better eye-catching appeal, the new design changes has been made. Its bulky styling is lingeringly evident. The exterior design trims does not really go well as a family MUV, but fits the picture perfectly well for a commercial vehicle built for business.

Among the major cosmetic changes, the front grille, headlamps & tail lamps have been re-designed keeping the same contour lines at the sides. Inside, interiors have been tweaked up to better notches by adding snazzy decals.

The interiors of the new Sumo are pleasingly good, unlike its older counterpart. Especially, the brushed silver trim with the midnight black console as the background looks pretty upscale. The instrument cluster and the various gauges are conveniently placed which are easy to identify with, provide an uncluttered sense of space. Unlike the Grande, there is a bit inadequacy of leg room at the back, which has to be dealt with.