Cream of Tata

Cream of Tata

Trading in more than 80 countries with close to 450 000 employees, having swallowed up the Jaguar and Land Rover marques just a few short years ago, Tata is one mighty company. With bragging rights to being the fifth largest truck manufacturer and the fourth biggest bus company globally one can only begin to understand just how big they really are.

Phonnie Cilliers, CEO of Accordian Investments (Tata SA) reckons: “In the South African context, out of Rosslyn, Pretoria, Tata Motors Assembly produce 20 different car and truck models, from hatchbacks to buses … interestingly, outside of India where Tata hails, South Africa is the largest consumer of Tata passenger cars.”

The latest addition to the family for local consumption (the Tata brand has been trading here since 1998), is the new Xenon XT range consisting a four-model bakkie lineup in single cab 4 x 2 (load capacity 1225 kg), single cab 4 x 4 (load capacity 1135 kg), double cab 4 x 2 (load capacity 1015 kg) and double cab 4 x 4 (load capacity 975 kg) derivatives.

The new XT is powered by the latest generation 2.2L VTT DiCOR (variable turbine technology, direct injection common rail) engine – this is the same Euro V engine that powers the Xenon range across the world developing peak power of 110 kW at 4000 rpm and peak torque of 320 Nm over the 1500-3000 rev range.

 Alas, to suit local conditions, this engine has had to be fine-tuned to meet domestic Euro II requirements because the best diesel fuel generally available here is 50 ppm (parts per million sulphur content), but once our government wakes up in the name of a cleaner environment for all and we are able to sell 5 ppm across our garage forecourts countrywide, so much the better!

Prospective buyers can expect and receive a European-styled bakkie featuring navigation and Bluetooth (standard in the double cab range), dual airbags, ABS, air conditioning, electric windows, power steering and rather comfortable bucket seats. There’s a limited slip differential for the single cabs and a differential lock (double cab), 4 x 4 is operated ‘on the fly’ electronically with the flick of a switch.

Stylewise, the XT features a front signature Tata chrome grille and attractive clear lens headlamps, complemented by flared wheel arches. A set of tough-looking alloy wheels, stylish pull type door handles, indicators on side rear view mirrors and a choice of exterior colours and car-like interiors, set this bakkie pleasantly apart from its competitors.

Cilliers told me the Xenon XT offers great value for money, ultra reliablility and cost of ownership*, complete peace of mind, advanced safety and some real style and comfort. A run through to Paarl in appalling Cape Town weather, on pot-holed dirt roads and motorway alike, revealed his claims to be largely true.

Perhaps car companies who offer bakkies in their lineup should consider at launch loading up the vehicle with a substantial amount of cargo to be able to judge just how well the vehicle performs under ‘real world’ conditions. I suspect, in the case of the XT, it could only benefit the Tata product …

To summarise, I’d say the Xenon XT could well be an excellent choice for segments such as family and leisure, farming, mining, construction, small businesses and municipalities. Its perceived competent off-roading capabilities could well make it an ideal vehicle for 4 x 4 enthusiasts – without breaking the bank.

Prices (including VAT):

Xenon XT Single Cab 4 x 2 R 189 995

Xenon XT Single Cab 4 x 4 R 245 995

Xenon XT Double Cab 4 x 2 R 239 995

Xenon XT Double Cab 4 x 4 R 269 995

Xenon XT comes with peace of mind offerings that are arguably above average, such as a five year/

90 000 km service plan, four year/120 000 km vehicle warranty, four year/120 000 km anti corrosion warranty and four year, unlimited km roadside assistance.

*According to the latest Kinsey Report (consumer watchdog for the local motor industry) the outgoing Xenon double cab has been ranked no. 1 In South Africa for the second year in a row, in terms of having the most competitive parts price basket.