The Tata Sumo has long been a symbol of ruggedness, reliability, and versatility in India’s SUV segment. Known for its robust build and spacious cabin, the Sumo has served families, fleet operators, and off-road enthusiasts alike. With a starting price of ₹12.50 lakh (ex-showroom India), it remains an attractive choice for those seeking a combination of durability, practicality, and off-road capability. In this detailed review, we explore the Tata Sumo’s design, performance, features, technology, and why it continues to hold a prominent place in the Indian SUV market.
Iconic Design and Exterior Styling
The Tata Sumo is designed for functionality and strength. Its boxy and muscular exterior gives it a commanding presence on the road. The high ground clearance, bold front grille, and wide stance make it suitable for urban roads as well as rough terrains.
Exterior Highlights:
- Robust front grille with chrome accents
- Wide headlamps with halogen or LED options
- High ground clearance of 180 mm
- Rugged bumpers and side steps for easy access
- Spacious alloy wheels for enhanced stability
The overall design reflects durability and practicality rather than sporty aesthetics, which is ideal for off-road and utility purposes.
Interior and Cabin Comfort
Inside, the Tata Sumo is built for space and functionality. Its cabin accommodates 7 to 9 passengers comfortably depending on the variant. High-quality fabric seats, practical dashboard layout, and durable materials make it ideal for both family use and commercial applications.
Interior Features:
- Spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom
- Adjustable driver seat with manual tilt steering
- Practical dashboard with easy-to-read instrument cluster
- Air conditioning with rear vents in higher variants
- Multiple storage compartments and cup holders
The simplicity of the interior ensures easy maintenance and long-lasting durability, which is a key selling point for fleet owners.
Engine and Performance
The Tata Sumo is powered by a 2.2-litre turbocharged diesel engine, producing 140 bhp and 320 Nm of torque. It is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and a robust suspension system designed to handle rough terrain with ease.
Performance Highlights:
- Strong low-end torque for heavy loads
- Smooth gear shifts for city and highway driving
- Capable of handling uneven roads and off-road trails
- Maximum speed: approximately 130 km/h
This powertrain ensures that the Tata Sumo remains reliable under various driving conditions, from urban streets to rural terrains.
Fuel Efficiency
Despite being a rugged SUV, the Sumo delivers decent fuel economy. The diesel engine offers 14-16 km/l, depending on driving conditions and load, which is acceptable for its size and utility purpose.
Safety Features
Safety has been enhanced in recent Sumo variants, making it a safer vehicle for both families and commercial operators.
Safety Highlights:
- Dual front airbags in select variants
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- Seatbelt reminders for driver and front passenger
- Strong ladder-frame chassis for impact resistance
- Rear parking sensors in higher trims
Technology and Infotainment
While the Tata Sumo prioritizes ruggedness, it also offers essential modern features for convenience.
Key Tech Features:
- Touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity
- Bluetooth and USB connectivity for audio
- Steering-mounted controls in select trims
- Digital speedometer and trip computer
- Reverse camera assistance in higher variants
These features enhance comfort and convenience without compromising the Sumo’s utilitarian focus.
Comfort and Utility
The Tata Sumo excels in utility and functionality. With large boot space, foldable rear seats, and roof rails, it is ideal for transporting passengers, luggage, and equipment. Its durable suspension ensures a smooth ride even on uneven roads, making it suitable for family trips and commercial applications.
Off-Road Capabilities
One of the key strengths of the Tata Sumo is its off-road performance. Equipped with a ladder-frame chassis, high ground clearance, and robust suspension, it can tackle rough terrain with ease. The vehicle’s 4×4 system (available in select variants) provides excellent traction in mud, sand, and uneven trails.
Off-Road Highlights:
- Approach angle: 32 degrees
- Departure angle: 27 degrees
- Water wading capability: 500 mm
- Heavy-duty suspension for rough roads
Variants and Pricing
The Tata Sumo is available in multiple trims: GX, GX BS6, EX, and EX 4×4. Prices start at ₹12.50 lakh for the base variant, while the top-end 4×4 variant costs approximately ₹15.50 lakh.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Rugged and durable build
- Spacious cabin for 7-9 passengers
- Excellent off-road performance
- Affordable maintenance and low running costs
- Strong resale value
Cons:
- Outdated interior design compared to modern SUVs
- Limited infotainment features in base variants
- Average on-road handling and ride comfort on highways
Final Verdict
The Tata Sumo continues to be a reliable, practical, and rugged SUV that meets the needs of families, commercial operators, and adventure enthusiasts alike. Its combination of strong engine performance, spacious interiors, and off-road capabilities makes it a versatile vehicle in India’s SUV segment. The attractive starting price of ₹12.50 lakh ensures that the Sumo remains accessible while delivering long-term value, durability, and performance. Whether for city driving, family outings, or off-road adventures, the Tata Sumo remains an enduring favorite among Indian buyers.
