Mahindra Maxx

The Mahindra Maxx, a product under the Mahindra Maxx range, is a spacious passenger utility vehicle with a maximum seating capacity of 10 persons. It is perfect vehicle for large families going on long trips. The MUV comes with a spacious cabin with decent legroom.


Available in 4 main choices: Base, TX, LX and Festara, the MUV comes loaded with a lot of merits. It has a long wheelbase of 2430 mm to provide for a large seating capacity and cargo space. The vehicle has a high ground clearance of 200 mm which gives it good stability on off-road drives. Because of these reasons, the Mahindra Maxx is more popular in semi-urban and rural areas of the country.

The vehicle has high fuel efficiency and delivers more than any other vehicle in its category. It comes with a 3-year warranty so that initial maintenance is not heavy on the pockets.

The Mahindra Maxx Festara is positioned against the Tata Cruiser in the Indian market.

Powertrain and Performance:

The vehicle gains power from a 2.1-litre 4-cylinder direct injection turbo diesel engine which churns out 62 bhp of power at 4500 rpm and a maximum torque of 120Nm at 2000 rpm. The engine is teamed to a 5 speed manual transmission.

The re-circulating ball type steering system with universal joint is very easy to steer. The MUV's turning radius in only 5.4 meters and helps the driver take small and precise turns.

The suspension system is tuned with rigid semi-elliptical leaf springs meant for a smooth ride on rough roads.

The estimated fuel economy of the Maxx is 15 km/l in the city and 18 km/l on the highway. The fuel tank capacity of 60 litres helps the Festara cover more miles while making less re-fueling trips to filling stations.

Build and Styling:

The car has a boxy frame with strong body construction. The metallic hard top is factory installed. The body comes with metallic paint for a premium look. Aluminium side steps help passengers gain easy vehicle entry and exit. Elegant decals on the sides of the vehicle give a sporty touch. The MUV rides on muscular looking 16-inch steel wheels and radial tyres.

On the interior, the Maxx looks comfortable for long drives. The standard seating capacity is of 6 persons but there's an option to increase the number to 10 persons. Exclusive fabric upholstery for all rows of seating comes standard. There is enough legroom for tall occupants at the first and second rows. The 2-part third row of seating fitted perpendicular to the first 2 rows and opposite each other can accommodate 4 persons.

The door pads are of the same fabric as that of the seats and add to interior comfort. The elbow room for passengers is decent. The leather-wrapped steering wheel provides a good grip for the driver. The steering wheel also comes with an independent locking system. The gear shift lever comes with an all new cover which complements interior upholstery.

The front disc and rear drum brake combination delivers effective braking. The bumpers come with well designed crumples zone that can absorb the shocks generated from accidents.

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Ford Endeavour

Introduced in India in 2003 the Ford Endeavour is a midsize SUV that has the capacity to seat seven adults is available in two versions namely the 2.5-litre XLT 4x2 and the 3.0-litre Thunder+ 4x4, both with Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) Geometry Turbocharger (VGT).

The off-road capability of the SUV has always been appreciated and now the Endeavour is nothing different. Ford has been successful in retaining the highlights of the model and adds on such new extra points that will improve the stance of the SUV. With both the all-wheel drive (AWD) and two-wheel drive variants available the Endeavour will offer a true SUV experience.

The Endeavour has an all new contemporary styling that is true match for a macho SUV. Endeavour will also feature reverse parking camera, 5-speed automatic transmission, touch enabled Satnav and DVD system and much more. The Endeavour has added comfort and luxurious feature that will make this SUV more customer friendly.

Powertrain and Performance:

Endeavour is available in two variants such as 4x2 XLT and the 4x4 Thunder+. The base model is equipped with a 2.5-litre TDCi with Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) that generates a power of 141 bhp and renders 330 Nm worth of torque, whereas the Thunder+ is powered by a 3.0-litre TDCi with Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) diesel engine that churns out 154 bhp.

The XLT is available in a two-wheel drive configuration (4x2) whereas the Thunder+ comes with all-wheel drive (4x4). The 4x4 Thunder has 5-speed automatic transmission and the electric shift-on-fly feature comes standard on the model where as the 4x2 XLT has a 5-speed manual transmission.

A good choice for city drive, the SUV has 16" Alloy wheels and ventilated disc and self-adjusting drum brake system in the front and the rear, respectively. And with the anti-lock braking system (ABS), with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), which provides quick braking response, the Endeavour is a safe machine.

Build and Styling:

There is no denying the Ford legacy in the Endeavour's overall architecture. The front end is distinctive with its high bonnet and behemoth size. The rather aggressive fascia out-front is decked up with a bold full chrome radiator grille with embossing and the new wraparound headlamps. Aiding and abetting the Endeavour, in its hardy off-road worthiness, are the mud flaps and wheel moldings along with fashionable roof rails. Silver side-steps run along the length of the vehicle and accentuate its brute quality. The Thunder+ variant offers a classier exterior compared to the XLT. It has larger mirrors that incorporate turn indicators and puddle lamps, a spare wheel cover, body cladding and many more attractive features.

It is also fitted with a highly toughened and modern bull bar, two-tone body cladding that gives it an even sportier look, alloy wheels, a fifth door mirror that comes in handy while parking or reversing, and a hard top cover for the extra tyre that can be locked to prevent its theft. Decals on the body of the vehicle enhance its looks.

The interior of the Ford Endeavour is roomy and elegant with world-class levels of comfort. Both the variants are endowed with luxurious leather upholstery and AC vents for all the three rows to make long and bumpy drives cushy. It comes with well-appointed amenities harboring little details, that both surprise and delight. For entertainment and comfort features of the car is awe-inspiring with touch-enabled satnav and DVD system and dual air conditioning with controls mounted on the ceiling.

Provided with the latest safety features, the Ford Endeavour appears to be safest vehicle to travel. A standard theft protection feature, passive anti-theft system (PATS), prevents the engine from being started with an incorrectly coded key by automatically shutting off fuel to the fuel injection system after two seconds. Also included in the Ford Endeavour are amenities such as a 4-wheel ABS with EBD and dual airbags, child-proof rear door locks, fuel tank shields, seat belts for all seven occupants, front passenger airbags, dual horn, and reverse parking camera

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Mahindra Bolero

Engine

New Mahindra Bolero is powered by 2523cc Turbo Charged DI (Direct Injection) diesel engine, which generates a power of 63.2 PS @ 3200 rpm and 18.4 kgm of torque @ 1440-1500 rpm. The 2.5L engine is much more refined than its previous model. The good, low-end torque of Bolero allows a smooth ride on gradients and bumpy roads.

Design And Comfort

Mahindra Bolero flaunts a new, sleek front grille and muscular bumper that accentuate the appearance of its fascia. The rear side appears more sophisticated, with curved clear lens taillights. Adding to the appeal of the exteriors is the well-contoured door handles. Ergonomics in the cabin of the all-new Bolero have been reworked to suit the present-day consumer's desire. Its plush bucket seats offer a greater degree of comfort to the occupants.

Interiors

Mahindra Bolero sports a trendy dashboard and instrument cluster. The efficiency of the air conditioning system has also been improved. The audio system is integrated on the instrument panel in such a way that the controls are within easy reach of the driver. The new Mahindra Bolero comes packed with many utility spaces. There are small storage areas for various passenger needs, which are neatly tucked away in the space-efficient central console.

Ride And Handling

New Mahindra Bolero comes equipped with an advanced NGT 520 transmission, along with synchromesh gears, which allow smooth gearshifts. The automobile's front suspension is built to withstand tough road conditions, while giving its occupants utmost comfort. A combination of disc and drum brakes is used in the SUV, which facilitates smooth braking on all road conditions. The wide radial tyres of Bolero ensure better road grip, safety and improved handling.

Safety

Mahindra Bolero comes equipped with anti-roll bars that help the vehicle hold to the ground even on the tightest bends. Its braking system prevents the locking of wheels on slippery roads. The new SUV also has a long wheelbase, which provides greater stability to the automobile. The other safety features of Mahindra Bolero include central locking and seat belt/door open warning.

Variants, Price And Color

The eight variants of new Mahindra Bolero are SLX, DX, DI, XLS, XL, Sportz, Invader and Camper. The SUV is available in five colors, including Apple Red, Fiery Black, Diamond White, Rocky Beige and Turf Green. The latest version of Mahindra Bolero is priced between Rs 4.60 lakh and Rs 5.61 lakh.

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Chevrolet Tavera Neo

General Motors launched its new generation premium Multi Utility Vehicle (MUV) - Chevrolet Tavera - inIndia in 2004. With its combination of trouble-free performance, sporty looks and superior drivability, the MUV offers outstanding value for money. A number of special features, like large reinforced tyres & rims, a recalibrated suspension system and steering wheel adjusted for local uses, have been incorporated in Tavera, to make it perfectly suitable for Indian roads. Over the passing years, the MUV has proven itself as one of the most opted vehicles in its class and an automobile that is highly reliable, comfortable and fuel-efficient. Moreover, Tavera offers low maintenance and running costs.

Engine

At the heart of Chevrolet Tavera lies a powerful 2.5L turbo diesel engine, which generates a power of 80 PS @ 3900 rpm and a torque of 19 PS @ 1800 rpm. The engine mates with a manual gear box to deliver good amount of power. It is equipped with Direct Fuel Injection System, supplemented by low-compression turbo charging, which ensures minimal emissions. The low-end torque of Tavera provides exceptional drivability, with less gear shifting required.


Design And Comfort

Chevrolet Tavera marks its presence on the road, with its striking looks. The front fascia of the car is adorned by a sloping hood and a single-bar front grille, with the large gold Chevy bow-tie emblem mounted on it. Adding to the muscular appearance of Tavera are its horizontal headlights and tail lamps. The cushioned seats of the car offer a high degree of comfort for its occupants. The long wheelbase of Tavera provides ample legroom. The seats are quiet supportive, with enough space in the front and rear compartments.



Interiors

Chevrolet Tavera boasts of a thoughtfully designed cabin. Simplicity, with a tinge of lavishness, is the underlying theme of the roomy interiors of the MUV. Adding to the elegance is the root wood finish trimmings on the dash and gear knob. Small storage spaces are tucked away in the cabin, within easy reach. The car is also equipped with a large rear cabin lamp. The triple-row air-conditioning system of Chevrolet Tavera has three rows of vents.



Ride And Handling

Chevrolet Tavera cruises along the highways and rolls on rough terrain with great ease. Steering is smooth and effortless at low speeds. The advanced suspension system of Tavera makes for a well-balanced and smooth ride-quality. The steering is agile, which keeps the car swift and responsive, thereby facilitating easy maneuvering. With a mellow turbo, acceleration and handling quality of the automobile are simply unmatched

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Mitsubishi Pajero

Hindustan Motors introduced Mitsubishi Pajero in the Indian car market in 2002. The locally-built Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) is a perfect fit for uneven Indian roads as well as the slow-moving urban traffic. With a powerful engine, the diesel-driven vehicle offers good mileage and high top-speed. The off-roader is suitable for long journeys and can easily accommodate a family of six people. The latest models of Mitsubishi Pajero are the re-vamped versions of the introductory model. They are designed to suit the requirements of the present day Indian consumers.

Engine
Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with 2.8L Turbocharged Inter-cooled diesel engine, which generates a power of 118 PS @ 4000 rpm and a peak torque of 292 Nm @ 2000 rpm. The car gets 5-speed manual transmission, delivering seamless gear shifts. It promises to deliver a top speed of 150 km/h and a mileage of 7.8 kmpl within the city and 11.1 kmpl on highways.

Design And Comfort
The body-on-ladder design of Mitsubishi Pajero gives it a sturdy appearance. Its tall stance and good ground clearance provide easy ingress and egress. The exteriors of the SUV look very simple, but elegant. Adding to the overall appeal are the bulky silvered colored bumpers, chrome front grille and six-spoke alloy wheels. The seats of Pajero are very comfortable, especially for the front and second-row seat occupants, who get hand-rests with cup-holders.

Interiors
The dual-toned interiors of Mitsubishi Pajero are voluminous, with a touch of elegance. The SUV is equipped with a standard music system, with tuner and MP3 CD player. The height-adjustable driver's seat comes with lumbar support, to ensure a relaxing ride during long drives. Adding to the comfort to the rear seats occupants are the hand-rests with cup holders. The third-row seats are fully-foldable, which provide extra boot space.

Ride And Handling
Mitsubishi Pajero comes with an efficient suspension system, which absorbs all the bumps and potholes on uneven Indian roads. Riding in the SUV is very comfortable, both on slow moving city traffic and on highways. The off-roader maintains stability on tough road conditions. It is extremely tough on rugged terrain and smooth on highways.

Safety
Mitsubishi Pajero is fully packed with the latest safety features, ensuring all-round protection to the people riding in it. The standard safety features found in the SUV include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), traction control, immobilizer, driver and passenger air bags and child safety locks.

Variants, Price And Color
In India, Mitsubishi Pajero comes in three variants - GL, GLX CRZ and SFX. The SUV is priced at Rs 21 lakh (approx) and is available in seven exterior colors, comprising of Navy, Carbon, Graphite, Deep Purple, Granite, Blaze and Limestone.

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Tata Sumo Victa

Tata Motors India Limited launched Sumo Victa in 2004. The multi-utility vehicle (MUV) comes across as a face-lifted version of Sumo. The muscular looks of the car are perfectly complemented by roomy interiors. Its exteriors have been redone, while the engine and specifications remain almost the same as the predecessor. Tata Sumo Victa comes with exciting features and superior performance, which differentiates it from other vehicles within its class.

Engine
Under the hood of the standard version of Tata Sumo Victa lies a powerful 1948 cc diesel engine, which delivers power of 90 PS @ 4300 rpm and maximum torque of 19 kgm @ 2500 rpm. Sumo Victa GX Turbo variant is powered by a turbocharger, which generates a power of 89 bhp @ 4,300 rpm and a maximum torque of 186 Nm @ 2,500 rpm.

Design And Comfort
The frontage of Tata Sumo Victa attracts with new chrome front grille and sparkling headlamps, while the taillight cluster looks trendy as well. Its body colored ORVM and door handles only adds to the appeal. The contrast colored claddings and bumpers beautify the exteriors. As far as comfort is concerned, Tata Sumo Victa assures a smooth ride for seven people.

Interiors
The cockpit interiors of Tata Sumo Victa have also been given a facelift. Storage spaces at strategic locations make an uncluttered cabin, while the leather-wrapped steering wheel rests nicely at your fingertips. The MUV comes with a new dashboard and sporty central console. The lumbar support can be adjusted for more comfort during long drives. Cabin temperature can be controlled both through the dashboard and roof mounted AC.

Ride And Handling
Tata Sumo Victa comes with power steering and a small turning radius, which enables you to take u-turns without much ado. The sharpest of turns can be taken without slightest discomfort, thanks to its wider tyres. Front and rear fog lamps provide improved visibility during night as well as in heavy fog. The 60:40 split option provided in the ergonomically enhanced second row seats gives way for increased spaciousness and flexibility. The third row front facing seats can be completely removed to provide ample space to fit in extra luggage.

Safety
Tata Sumo Victa is equipped with standard safety features such as rear high mounted stop lamp, engine immobilizer (with keyless entry), collapsible steering column, anti-submarine seats for driver and co-driver, side intrusion beam on all four doors and seat belt warning.

Variants, Price And Color
Tata Sumo Victa is available in GX, EX and LX variants. The MUV is priced between Rs 4.8 and 5.8 lacs. It is available in a wide variety of colors, including Passion Red, Pacific Blue, Quartz Black, Arctic Silver, River Rock Green, Marble Beige and Arctic White

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Mahindra Scorpio

Mahindra Scorpio's design has been an eye-catcher among SUVs and has bagged many an award for its styling. Designed completely in-house by Mahindra, it has been one of the major success stories in India. Now, Mahindra has to made the deal much better with the all New Scorpio with cosmetic changes which are both exterior and interior. The new models are better and cheaper from the outgoing ones.

Mahindra India has launched the Scorpio Special Edition at Auto Expo 2010. Scorpio Special Edition gets the special treatments including premium fabrics, special trimmings and finishes and high quality accessories to make it a new appeal. Scorpio Special Edition gets the European leather wrapped dashboard, grab rail and redesigned gear known. It also sports with signature chrome finish alloy wheels. It gets the advanced video playback system with integrated roof-mounted DVD screen & high-end speakers. It also gets the European leather-lined in luxurious tan & beige to the seats.

Mahindra Scorpio Special Edition Features:

- Dual SRS Airbags (Front Seats)
- High-Gloss wood finished central bezel

Mahindra Scorpio Special Edition is limited to 1000 numbers.

Mahindra India has added some more spice to the New Muscular Scorpio, it is not a major facelift, they have added some safety and comfort features to top of the line VLX model. The Scorpio VLX now features:

- Dual SRS front Airbags
- Music System Gets Front Speakers With Built-in Tweeter
- Speed Warning Alert
- New Twinpod Instrument Cluster with higher data accuracy
- LED Driven ‘telltale’ bulbs, fuel and temperature gauges as bar graphs
- Integrated tyre pressure monitoring system
- Large central LCD display
- Bluevision bulbs which give out a whiter output similar to Xenon headlamps for improved night time visibility
- Bluetooth Connectivity for your mobile phone to let you take calls without taking your hands off the steering wheel
- Mahindra Body Function Module placed below the drivers seat which helps diagnose problems without opening the bonnet.

Following Major Changes Were Made In Last Facelift Of Scorpio 2009:

•All New Front Grille.
•Multi Foval Head Lights With Integrated Turn Indicators.
•New Front Fog Lamps.
•Signature Front Grille Like The Bolero & Recently Launched Xylo.
•Muscular Looking Front Bumper.
•New Rear Bumper With Built-in Foot Step.
•Gear Shift Knob Like The Xylo.
•Dash Integrated Music System.
•Dual Tone Outside Rear View Mirrors.
•New Working Bonnet Scoop.
•Side Claddings With "Scorpio" Embossed In Them.
•Electrically Adjustable Outside Rear View Mirros.
•Chunky Door Handles.

Prices of Mahindra Scorpio:

•New Scorpio LX - Rs. 7.21 lakhs
•New Scorpio SLE - Rs. 8.19 lakhs
•New Scorpio VLX - Rs. 9.20 lakhs
•New Scorpio VLX BSIV Micro Hybrid - Rs. 9.30 lakhs
•New Scorpio VLX Automatic - Rs. 9.98 lakhs

Features:
Scorpio's interiors look quite modern with a nicely rounded and organic-looking dashboard with large buttons and knobs. The front seats are pretty comfortable and offer the best lower back support. The Scorpio's chassis is extremely rigid and stiff and you don't get any rattles. The suspension is very supple and in city traffic or at low speeds, it glides over the road, the soft suspension working noiselessly to filter out the bumps. Even on rough or bad road, at least when driven at low speeds, the suspension copes pretty well. The steering and other controls are pretty light, which makes it o easy to drive in town. Mahindra has been working on the Scorpio almost constantly and last time they launched it with m-Hawk engine that makes use of 2nd generation Bosch common rail injection system with solenoid injectors.

The 4 cylinder, m-Hawk features VGT develops 290 Nm of torque in a wide range of 1600-2800rpm. The VGT will help to eliminate turbo lag. It develops 120bhp and can reach 60kmph from zero in just 5.7 seconds. All this is possible because the light weight mHawk engine, with its all-aluminium cylinder heads is tuned for power. Turbochargers feed concentrated gusts of wind into a Variable Geometry Turbine, a simple yet cunning device that partially closes to trap the air inside at high pressures. This generates tremendous torque even at low speeds. A decrease in gross weight, coupled with a reduction in base engine friction, ensures that parasitic losses of power are seriously lowered and acceleration gets even better. The sporty bonnet scoop provides a direct passage for air to rush into the mHawk’s new top-mounted intercooler. The intercooler, in turn, directs this air into passages to optimise engine cooling.

The reduced mass of the m-Hawk will also help in improvement of dynamics, the m-Hawk engine is built from aluminium alloy and hence it is 60kg lighter than the current 2.6L CRDe engine. Other than the m-Hawk engine, mahindra has refreshed the interiors of the scorpio. Safety features include ABS, Cruise control, Headlight sensor, Wiper sensor & Reverse parking sensors. Other features include stereo controls on steering wheel, smart new alloy wheels and working bonnet scoop. The advanced Intellipark system allows you to keep a look out for anything happening behind you without having to turn your head. Moreover, reversing ultrasonic sensors in the rear help you judge the distance between the vehicle and anything in its way. A sophisticated warning system allows you to judge the location of any obstacle in the rear view mirror. There is also tyre pressure monitoring system which tells you the exact air pressure and temperature of each tyre.

The sensors located in each tyre monitor pressure and temperature and any unwanted changes in either will immediately flash on the instrument cluster, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. There are certain design weaknesses, especially at the rear where it looks relatively boxy, as well as the upright stance and the third row is also cramped and tall passengers are also short on headroom. Also the small central console controls and buttons are often inaccessible while driving the car. Air con vents in between the front seats are effective cooling for rear passengers. Overall, the new Scorpio sounds great with path breaking technology and user-friendly, modern features. It is a clear validation of Mahindra's customer-centric approach to business. This package would delight the evolved, new age customer

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ICML Rhino

International Cars and Motors Ltd. (ICML) is based in Himachal Pradesh and is an emerging car manufacturer in India that entered the market with its first car Rhino RX for the MUV segment. ICML is a new company belonging to the renowned tractor manufacturer Sonalika Group.


The Rhino RX MUV bears a resemblance to the Toyota Qualis and fills the vacuum created by the discontinued Toyota model. Rigid boxy structure and spacious interiors are highlights of the Rhino. It is available in both 8-seater and 9-seater options and is offered in 3 variants. Currently, the MUV competes with Chevrolet Tavera, Toyota Innova, and Tata Sumo Victa.


Powertrain and Performance: All the three variants of the Rhino - S1, S2, and DLX - are powered by a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine with direct injection technology. The engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission and delivers a peak power of 100 bhp and torque of 220 Nm. With a fuel economy of 15 km/l in the city and 17 km/l on the highway, it's the most fuel-efficient vehicle in its segment.


The MUV features independent double wishbone suspension to the front and a semi elliptical leaf spring to the rear to ensure a stable ride. Telescopic shock absorbers work to soften the ride. The front ventilated disc brakes and rear drum brakes are balanced with LCRV braking technology that adjusts braking pressure as per the load to provide ride stability. Handling is smooth and effortless as the power steering system is offered standard on all variants.


Build and Styling: The Rhino RX comes with classic boxy exterior MUV styling. A small and simple chrome grille with golden ICML logo sits between the clear lens wraparound headlight clusters. The exterior look of each variant varies slightly from the other and one quick look at the bumpers gives away the exact variant. The base model S1 does not come with body coloured bumpers unlike the higher S2 and DLX variants. The top-end DLX variant gets bumpers that are enhanced with a dual tone look. The DLX can also be recognized by its body coloured door handles and from the outside rearview mirrors that come with integrated indicators which is unique to the top end variant. The S2 comes with unique body graphics or decals. All variants ride on 15-inch steel wheels and only the higher variants S2 and DLX come with wheel caps.


The Rhino RX impresses with its bright and spacious new age interiors. The instrument panel has an eye-catching 3D day-night glow effect and is housed in a dual tone dashboard. The S1 model gets a regular flat grey door trim, S2 comes with moulded grey trim, and the top-end DLX gets a beige fabric trim and leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knob. Seat options and upholsteries also vary on the variants. S1 comes with rexine upholstery, seats on S2 are wrapped in red/blue fabric, and the DLX gets premium beige fabric seats. The S1 comes only in 9-seater configuration and the DLX is an 8-seater. Only the S2 is available in both 8 and 9-seater options.


Entertainment is provided for on the higher variants of the Rhino. S2 comes with a cassette player with speakers on the front door and the DLX comes with a CD player with remote and speakers to the front as well as rear of the cabin. All variants are offered with air conditioning. While the S1 and S2 get single zone air conditioning, the DLX has a dual AC system. Other notable comfort and convenience features are side steps to makes entry and exit easy and anti-glare inside rearview mirror (S2 and DLX only).


Safety features include collapsible steering column, dual impact side beams, LCRV-balanced brakes, headlamp levelling device, child safety door locks, and rear high-mounted stop lamp

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Tata Sumo Grande MKII

The New Sumo Grande MK II combines the looks of an SUV with the comforts of a family car. It has been specifically designed to satisfy the needs of city customers in the areas of driveability, manoeuvrability and fuel efficiency. In its 13 year long journey Sumo faced many rivals but Tata has kept the vehicle alive with constant upgradation. But in recent years, image of the brand changed a lot. The Sumo Grande MK II sports an all new styling with clean chiselled looks mating with flowing contours.

The tall aggressive stance of the Sumo Grande MK II is complimented by large clear headlamps, and a cutaway air dam in the front. The clean rear look, with the spare wheel tucked under the body, is accentuated by attractive tail lights and a chrome overlay. Tata has borrowed few design cues from the new Xenon for the Sumo Grande MK II. The high bonnet, strong crease and grille gives a V shaped front. The V theme is carried on to the lower part of the bumper. The end result is the sumo grande retains the same masculine feel though in a different form. The real attraction is the side profile of Sumo Grande MK II.

The tapered roofline, dynamic fenders and glass windows are sure attract every by passers. The waterfall fenders merges with the bumpers smoothly. Rear gets a new trendy tail lamp cluster but it looks bland without any distinct bumper. Sumo Grande MK II is built with a longer wheelbase than is usual for Tata, namely 2550 mm in comparison to the current 2400mm. The SUV features three rows of seats and is powered by the new generation 2.2 liter direct injection common rail (DICOR) engine, fitted with a variable geometry turbocharger. The Sumo Grande MK II combines the looks of an SUV with the comforts of a family car. Chassis and suspenison system are carried over from sumo victa.

But this time it has to do more work due to the increased wheelbase and weight. Tata has worked on with the steering to make maneuvering easy in the city. Ride quality is good at lower speeds. Beige interiors are complimented by fire and stain resistant fabric upholstery. Dual HVAC with roof integrated louvers ensures personalised climate adjustment for the occupants in each row. Power steering, power windows, motorised ORVMs, height adjustable driver's seat and a state of the art CD/MP3 music system further add to the comforts and convenience of a family traveling in the Sumo Grande MK II.

Press Release - Sumo Grande MK II

Mumbai, December 14, 2009: Tata Motors today announced the launch of Grande MK II, an upgraded version of its premium Sumo offering in the domestic market. The Grande MK II seeks to deliver added value to customers through substantial changes in the exteriors and interiors combined with improvements in drivability, ride and handling and comfort. Tata Motors today announced the launch of Grande MK II, an upgraded version of its premium Sumo offering in the domestic market. The Grande MK II seeks to deliver added value to customers through substantial changes in the exteriors and interiors combined with improvements in drivability, ride and handling and comfort.

The exteriors have been accentuated by a new chrome lined grill, side rub rails with chrome inserts and indicators on ORVMs. The interiors have been refreshed to give the vehicle a completely new, contemporary look with a two tone theme complemented by a new faux wood centre console and new fabric upholstery. The changed drive ratio in the Grande MK II gives a boost to low speed performance in city driving conditions. While a modified suspension ensures a comfortable ride, particularly for second and third row occupants, optimised anti-roll bars reduce body roll to a minimum during cornering. The existing low NVH levels have been further refined.

Several ergonomic improvements have been made in the Grande MK II — significant among these are a smaller steering wheel with floating horns, a grab handle on the ‘C’ pillar to aid egress of third row passengers, and new inner door handles. The Grande MK II carries forward the class leading features of the earlier version such as best in class third row seats and lowest turning circle radius of 5.25 m in the category, in addition to having one of the best fuel efficiencies in its class. Dual HVAC with roof integrated louvers, motorised ORVMs, height adjustable driver’s seat and a state of the art CD/MP3 music system are some of the other features Grande MK II continues to sport. The vehicle is powered by the new generation 2.2 litre DICOR engine fitted with a variable geometry turbocharger which delivers maximum power and torque of 120 PS and 250 Nm respectively.

The Grande MK II will be available in 3 variants – top of the line Gx, Ex, and Lx with a seating capacity ranging between 7 and 9 seats in front and side facing configurations. The vehicle will be available in three new colours, Walnut Gold, Platinum Beige and Castle Grey. The Grande MK II is priced in the range of Rs. 6.43 lakhs to Rs. 7.50 lakhs (ex-showroom, Delhi). It comes with a warranty of 2 years or 75,000 kms (whichever is earlier). An additional 2 years’ warranty can be availed through the extended warranty option. Customers would be able to accessorise the Grande MK II with a host of accessories available at dealerships across the country.

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Tata Safari

The Tata Safari has been symbolic of the Indian SUV market. Initially, it shared the same chassis and suspension as its cousins, the Sierra, the Sumo and so on. The Safari still holds that big, macho SUV image. It continues its high stance with a rather long bonnet; it exudes ruggedness; even in the face of its rather more timid looking clear lens headlamps and some extra chrome that has gone into its anti-ageing process. Lines of the Safari DiCOR aren't very different from the outgoing safari and save for the new headlamps, tail lamps and a more pronounce chrome chin, the changes are hardly noticeable.

Interiors

The Dash is in beige with a polished aluminum console in the center of the dash It comes with a nice clock and buttons for the defogger, rear wash-wipe and so on. The higher versions of the safari also come with either an MP3 or a VCD player. The seats are really good and comfortable, they come with hand supports for the passengers up front and at the back. The rear legroom is excellent and it is very comfortable here, unlike the last row of seats, which aren't fit for extended drives.

Once you fold these jump seats though, u liberates a lot of luggage room. The safari now incorporates adjustable height seat belts that can really go a long way in improving comfort and in the event of a crash, they can dramatically reduce the risk of neck injury.

Engine

Safari LX is powered by 483 DL Turbo-Charged Inter Cooled 1948cc engine. It develops maximum power of 90 Bhp at 4300 rpm and maximum torque of 190 Nm @ 2000-3000 rpm. The Safari Dicor is fitted with the new generation 2.2 L Dicor (Direct injection common rail) engine that is operated by a 32-bit electronic control unit and incorporates state-of-the-art technology.

While lowering emission and fuel consumption by a few notches, the new engine delivers an incredible peak power of 140 PS and a maximum torque of 320 Nm. Recently, Tata has added a new safari variant in its DiCOR range - Safari GX. The current Safari DICOR range comprises three variants: LX, EX and VX. The GX, with several high end comfort and safety features, has been positioned below VX, the top end variant.

Safari GX is packed with following comfort and safety features:

•Dual tone exteriors in selected shades.
•Leather cum fabric upholstery.
•Reverse guide system with camera in rear bumper.
•ABS with EBD.
•Turn indicators on outer rear view mirrors.
•Alloy wheels.
•Available in both 4×2 and 4×4 versions.
•Power Windows.
•Power Steering.
•Remote Central Locking.
•Tubeless Tyres.
•Rear Wiper with Washer.
•Rear Defogger.
•Tiltable & Collapsible Steering Column.
Ride Quality

The safari uses independent double wishbone with torsion bar up front and coil spring suspension with 5 link at the rear, which work well; even when the car is not full of people. Shod with 235/70 R16 radials, grip is adequate on the tarmac, but the tires are definitely not meant for any kind of serious off-road adventures. The ride also has a bit of a hard edge due to the now reduced profile.

The chassis continues to be the tried and tested steel body on ladder frame type, which is quite stiff but the safari has a very heavy snout, which can prove quite a handful around corners. The only problem is that it still looks the same like when it was launched wayback in 90s. It needs major facelift and a lot of improvement in overall quality, fit and finish.

Overall, Safari is an excellent SUV, it always had image and road prescence going for it, it has a spacious cabin, which can comfortably seat 7 and loads of luggage. You can keep cruising all day long without much feeling too tired, build quality is also steadily improving, but still suffers from a few rough edges. If one is looking for a comfortable SUV that is able to do the highway and town circuit quite well.

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