Tata Sumo Gold EX

The Tata Sumo Gold EX is a ladder-frame sport utility vehicle that has been a stalwart in the Indian market for decades. Powered by a 3.0-litre CR4 diesel engine, it produces 85 PS of power and 250 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The vehicle is known for its spacious interior, which can comfortably seat up to 10 people, although the third row is more suited for children. It features power steering, power windows, and a basic music system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity. The Sumo Gold also comes with rear AC vents and a cooled glovebox, adding to its comfort features. Despite its age, the Sumo Gold remains a reliable option for those seeking a rugged and spacious MUV, albeit with some compromises on comfort and modern amenities. Its low maintenance cost and robust build make it a favorite among commercial users and those who need a vehicle for heavy-duty use.

The Tata Sumo Gold EX is a mixed bag when it comes to overall performance and user experience. On the positive side, it boasts a rugged chassis that can withstand years of abuse, making it a value-for-money option in the long run. The power steering makes it easier to maneuver, especially in city conditions, and the big ground clearance of 190mm gives it the flexibility to handle off-road terrain. However, the vehicle has several drawbacks. The ride can be bouncy at high speeds, making rear seat occupants uncomfortable over long distances. The third row is cramped and best suited for kids. The build quality and switch gear quality are subpar, with issues like a loose gear stick and basic music system. Safety features are minimal, with only seatbelts and side intrusion beams. Despite its powerful engine, the Sumo Gold suffers from high NVH levels and a suspension setup that is not very comfortable. Overall, its a vehicle that appeals to those who want a no-frills, rugged MUV for basic transportation needs.

There have been no recent updates or relaunch plans for the Tata Sumo Gold EX, as it has been discontinued. However, there are speculations about a possible next-generation Sumo, though nothing has been officially announced by Tata Motors. I think a modernized Sumo could still find a market niche.

The Tata Sumo Gold EX, although discontinued, was once priced at Rs. 8.26 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) and came with a 3.0-litre CR4 diesel engine producing 85PS of power and 250Nm of torque. It had features like a music system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity, power steering, and power windows. I think its ruggedness and reliability were its strongest selling points.

In 2019, Tata Motors offered benefits of up to Rs 1 lakh on several models, including the Sumo, as part of their February offers. This included cash discounts, free insurance, and exchange bonuses. This was a significant move to boost sales during a sluggish market period. I believe such offers can really make a difference for buyers on a budget.

The Tata Sumo Gold EX was powered by a 3.0-litre CR4 diesel engine, which provided sufficient power for its intended use. However, it lacked the modern amenities and safety features that newer vehicles were starting to offer. I think this was one of the reasons it eventually lost ground in the market.

In April 2018, Tata Motors offered benefits worth Rs 33,000 on the 2018 models of the Tata Sumo, including the EX variant, as part of their April offers. This included various discounts and bonuses to attract more buyers. I believe such promotions can significantly impact sales figures.

The Tata Sumo Gold EX is priced in the range of Rs. 7.46 lakh to Rs. 8.91 lakh (ex-showroom, New Delhi). On-road prices can vary depending on the state and local taxes, but you can expect to add around Rs. 1-1.5 lakh to the ex-showroom price, bringing the total to approximately Rs. 8.5 lakh to Rs. 10.4 lakh. This pricing makes the Sumo Gold competitive in the MPV segment, especially when considering its spacious interior and powerful engine. However, the lack of modern features and the need for improvements in build quality and comfort might make some buyers consider other options like the Mahindra Bolero or Maruti Ertiga.

The Tata Sumo Gold EX offers a company-claimed mileage of 15.3 kmpl, which is decent for a vehicle of its size and power. In real-world conditions, you can expect mileage to range between 12-15 kmpl, depending on driving habits and road conditions. This makes it a reasonable choice for those concerned about running costs, especially for long journeys or commercial use. However, the actual fuel efficiency may vary, and its important to consider other running costs such as maintenance and spare parts.