In the ever-evolving landscape of the Indian automotive industry, the Tata Sumo has long been a stalwart, cementing its position as one of the most trusted and versatile utility vehicles on the market. With its latest iteration, Tata Motors has once again raised the bar, offering a compelling blend of rugged capability, modern features, and enhanced comfort.
A Timeless Design with a Modern Twist
The new Tata Sumo retains the iconic silhouette that has made it a household name, while introducing a fresh and contemporary touch to its appearance. The front end features a bold new grille design, complemented by sleek and angular headlamps that incorporate LED daytime running lights.
The sculpted body panels and the pronounced wheel arches lend the Sumo a more robust and commanding presence on the road. The addition of chrome accents and a redesigned rear-end with wraparound taillights further enhance the vehicle’s premium appeal.
Powertrain and Performance: Reliable and Capable
Under the hood, the new Tata Sumo is powered by a 2.2-liter, four-cylinder, turbocharged diesel engine. This refined powerplant delivers a maximum power output of 154 hp and a peak torque of 320 Nm, providing ample muscle for both on-road and off-road adventures.
Paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, the Sumo’s engine offers a smooth and responsive driving experience, while also delivering impressive fuel efficiency of up to 15 km/l. [1]
Improved Ride and Handling
The new Sumo features a revised suspension setup, with independent double-wishbone suspension at the front and a rigid axle with leaf springs at the rear. This setup, combined with the use of high-strength materials, has resulted in a more comfortable and stable ride, particularly over rough terrain and uneven roads.
Braking duties are handled by disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear, ensuring reliable and confident stopping power. The inclusion of an electronic stability control (ESC) system further enhances the Sumo’s safety and handling characteristics.
Spacious and Feature-Packed Cabin
The interior of the new Tata Sumo has undergone a significant transformation, offering a more premium and technology-laden experience. The highlight is the inclusion of a large touchscreen infotainment system, which supports smartphone connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Sumo’s cabin also boasts ample seating for up to seven passengers, with generous legroom and headroom. The addition of premium upholstery, automatic climate control, and a rear-view camera further enhance the overall comfort and convenience.
Safety and Assistance
Tata Motors has placed a strong emphasis on safety with the new Sumo, equipping it with a host of advanced features. The utility vehicle comes with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and ISOFIX child seat anchors as standard across all variants.
Additionally, higher-spec models will be available with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, further enhancing the Sumo’s safety credentials.
Pricing and Positioning
Tata Motors has priced the new Sumo in the range of ₹12.99 lakh to ₹18.99 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a compelling offering in the utility vehicle segment. This positioning allows the Sumo to compete with established rivals like the Mahindra Bolero and the upcoming Isuzu D-Max V-Cross.
The Enduring Legacy of the Tata Sumo – Tata Sumo
The introduction of the new Tata Sumo marks a significant milestone in the evolution of one of India’s most iconic utility vehicles. By retaining the core values that have made the Sumo a trusted companion for generations, while introducing modern touches and enhanced features, Tata Motors has ensured that this rugged and versatile SUV remains relevant and appealing to the modern Indian consumer.
As the utility vehicle market continues to evolve, the Tata Sumo stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to providing reliable and capable transportation solutions. This latest iteration of the legendary SUV is poised to continue the Sumo’s enduring legacy, cementing its position as a trusted and versatile choice for both urban and rural Indian families.