In a move that has taken the Indian automotive industry by storm, Tata Motors has announced the revival of its legendary Sumo brand.
Set to hit the roads in early 2025, the all-new Tata Sumo promises to blend rugged versatility with modern technology, potentially reshaping the SUV market in India.
A Legacy Reimagined
The Tata Sumo, first introduced in 1994, quickly became a household name in India.
Known for its robust build, spacious interior, and go-anywhere capability, the Sumo carved a special place in the hearts of Indian consumers, particularly in semi-urban and rural areas.
Its production ceased in 2019 due to evolving emission norms and changing consumer preferences, but the legend lived on in the collective memory of automotive enthusiasts.
Now, after a hiatus of six years, Tata Motors is bringing back the Sumo nameplate, albeit with a modern twist.
This move comes as part of Tata’s strategy to strengthen its position in the highly competitive SUV segment, leveraging the strong brand recall of the Sumo name.
Design: Rugged Meets Refined
The new Tata Sumo pays homage to its predecessor while embracing contemporary design elements.
The boxy silhouette and upright stance evoke memories of the original, but with refined lines and modern finishes.
LED lighting, a bold front grille with the new Tata logo, and stylish alloy wheels bring the SUV firmly into the 2020s.
Tata’s design team, led by Martin Uhlarik, Global Head of Design, has masterfully balanced rugged charm with modern aesthetics.
The new Sumo retains its imposing road presence while incorporating aerodynamic elements for improved efficiency.
The SUV will be available in a range of colors, including the classic Tata Arctic White, as well as new options like Magnetic Red and Rainforest Green.
Powertrain Options
Perhaps the most significant upgrade from the original is under the hood. The new Sumo offers two engine options:
A 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine producing 170 bhp and 350 Nm of torque
A 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine delivering 160 bhp and 260 Nm of torque
Both engines are BS6 Phase 2 compliant and come mated to a 6-speed manual transmission as standard, with an optional 6-speed automatic transmission available on higher trims.
The diesel variant also offers a 4×4 option, staying true to the Sumo’s go-anywhere DNA.
Tata engineers have worked tirelessly to ensure the new powertrains capture the spirit of the original – robust, reliable, and efficient.
The company claims a fuel efficiency of up to 15 km/l for the diesel variant and 13 km/l for the petrol version under standard testing conditions.
Riding Dynamics
The new Sumo is built on Tata’s advanced OMEGA (Optimal Modular Efficient Global Advanced) Architecture, which also underpins the Harrier and Safari.
This platform ensures excellent ride quality, handling, and safety.
The SUV features a monocoque construction, a departure from the original’s body-on-frame design, resulting in improved dynamics and crash protection.
Suspension duties are handled by independent MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, both tuned for a balance of comfort and stability.
The 4×4 variant features terrain response modes, enhancing the Sumo’s off-road capabilities.
Technology Integration
While staying true to its rugged ethos, the new Sumo incorporates a host of modern technologies. The SUV features:
A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
A 7-inch digital instrument cluster
Connected car technology with over-the-air updates
360-degree camera system for easy maneuvering
Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) on higher trims
These features are designed to enhance the driving experience without compromising the Sumo’s core values of simplicity and durability.
Comfort and Practicality
Tata Motors has paid special attention to passenger comfort and practicality. The Sumo offers three seating configurations:
A 5-seater layout for those prioritizing cargo space
A 7-seater configuration with captain seats in the second row
An 8-seater option for large families or commercial use
The cabin features premium materials, ample storage spaces, and a panoramic sunroof on top-end variants.
The third row offers best-in-class legroom, addressing a common complaint in many three-row SUVs.
A power-operated tailgate and flat-folding rear seats add to the Sumo’s utility, making it ideal for both urban families and rural users who often need to transport goods.
Safety First
Tata Motors has not compromised on safety in its pursuit of versatility. The new Sumo comes equipped with:
Six airbags as standard across all variants
Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
Hill Hold Control and Hill Descent Control
ISOFIX child seat anchors
Three-point seatbelts for all passengers
The company expects the Sumo to achieve a 5-star Global NCAP safety rating, in line with Tata’s commitment to vehicle safety.
Environmental Considerations
In line with Tata’s commitment to sustainability, the new Sumo incorporates several eco-friendly features.
Both engines are designed to be compatible with ethanol-blended fuels, supporting the government’s push for greener alternatives.
Additionally, Tata claims that over 85% of the SUV’s components are recyclable, minimizing its environmental impact at the end of its life cycle.
Market Positioning and Pricing
Tata Motors is positioning the new Sumo as a premium mid-size SUV.
With an expected price range of ₹14 lakh to ₹22 lakh (ex-showroom), it will compete with the likes of the Mahindra Scorpio-N, MG Hector, and Hyundai Alcazar.
The pricing strategy reflects the SUV’s premium positioning and the strong brand value associated with the Sumo name.
Tata is confident that the combination of nostalgia, modern features, and competitive pricing will make the Sumo an attractive option for families and adventure enthusiasts alike.
Production and Availability
Tata plans to manufacture the new Sumo at its state-of-the-art plant in Pune, Maharashtra.
The company has hinted at an initial production run of 10,000 units per month, with the capacity to scale up based on demand.
Pre-bookings are set to open in late 2024, with deliveries expected to commence in March 2025.
Tata’s extensive dealership network across India is gearing up for what is anticipated to be a high-demand launch.
Impact on the Indian Automotive Market
The revival of the Sumo is more than just a new product launch; it’s a cultural moment in the Indian automotive landscape.
Industry analysts predict that this move could spark a trend of reviving other iconic models from the past, potentially reshaping the SUV segment of the market.
Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd. and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., stated, “The Sumo is not just an SUV; it’s a part of India’s automotive heritage.
With this revival, we’re not only bringing back a legend but also setting a new benchmark in the mid-size SUV segment.
We believe the new Sumo will resonate with both nostalgic customers and a new generation of SUV enthusiasts.”
Tata Sumo : A Legend Reborn for a New Era
The revival of the Tata Sumo marks a significant moment in India’s automotive history.
By blending rugged versatility with modern technology, Tata Motors aims to capture the hearts of a new generation while satisfying the nostalgia of long-time fans.
As the launch date approaches, anticipation continues to build. Will the new Sumo live up to its legendary namesake?
Can it carve out a niche in today’s technology-driven market? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the return of the Sumo has reignited a passion for versatile, robust SUVs that transcends generations.
In bringing back the Sumo, Tata Motors is not just releasing a new SUV; it’s rekindling a love affair between drivers and machines that defined an era.
As the new Sumo prepares to hit Indian roads, it carries with it the weight of history and the promise of the future – a true legend reborn for the modern age.