Tata Sumo Grande

The Grande’s clean-cut, fresh design gives it a contemporary look that is a generation ahead of its predecessor. Styled in the U.K. by the Concept Group, the Grande was designed to look modern. Tata has maintained the SUV-like two-box look, bonnet and passenger cabin. The lines that flow along the body of the vehicle make it attractive as does the ‘V’-shaped grille, flowing bumper and front wheel arch.

The boxiness of the old Sumo is still there though owing to the vertical A-pillar and upright rear. Tata’s designers wanted to move away from the hardcore off-roader looks but as a result, the Grande ends up looking a touch slab-like. Check out the very subtle rear bumper and the spare that has been moved to the underbody. What these changes do accomplish is that they give the Grande the appearance of a cross between an off-roader and a MPV.

Power to the rear wheels is supplied by Tata’s all-new 2.2 DiCOR motor — yes the same unit that powers the Safari, which means this 1,940kg car has a decent amount of power propelling it forward. Under the hood of the Grande, this 2.2 DiCOR motor makes 118bhp, as against 140 for the Safari, the de-tune carried out in the interest of fuel economy. However, this motor still uses the variable geometry turbo and you can feel its effects as soon as you tap the accelerator.

In the city, the Grande delivered 9.6kpl and on the highway, it gave 13.2 kilometres to a litre. If you take a look at the Sumo Grande from an overall point of view, Tata Motors has achieved what it wanted; the new design will certainly attract family car buyers and the Grande is comfortable and spacious as well. The interiors look good; performance too is on a high level and the best part is of course that it is efficient.

Yes, it does have its share of flaws such as the old Sumo’s chassis and suspension, the basic leaf spring rear suspension meaning it doesn’t drive as well as it should.

However, when compared to its competition, it is found lacking and safety features like ABS and airbags are not provided either. But, with a price tag of Rs 7.84 lakh, it is substantially cheaper than its competitors and this is what the Grande’s USP is.




TECHNICAL DATA

Tata Sumo Grande


Engine Engine layout: 4-cyls in line, 2179cc

Max Power: 118bhp at 4000rpm

Max Torque: 25.4kgm at 1500-3000rpm

Top Speed: 141kph

0-60: 7.14secs

0-100: 17.72secs

CFE: 11.4kpl

Fuel tank capacity: 65 litres

Boot capacity: 150-500litres (with seats folded)

Length: 4421mm

Width: 1780mm

Height: 1940mm

Wheelbase: 2250mm

Weight: 1940kg

Ground clearance: 180mm