Tata Sumo Gold CX

The Tata Sumo Gold CX is a multi-utility vehicle (MUV) that has been a stalwart in the Indian market for decades. Powered by a 3.0-litre CR4 diesel engine producing 85PS of power and 250Nm of torque, it is known for its rugged build and ability to handle rough terrain. The vehicle features a spacious cabin that can accommodate up to 9 passengers, making it ideal for large families or commercial use. It comes with basic amenities such as power steering, power windows, and a music system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity. Despite its age, the Sumo Gold CX still offers a commanding driving position and good ground clearance, making it suitable for off-road and long-distance driving. However, its outdated design, poor build quality, and lack of modern safety features are significant drawbacks.

The Tata Sumo Gold CX is a vehicle that embodies a mix of ruggedness and practicality, but it falls short in several key areas. While it offers ample space for up to 9 occupants and a commanding driving position, its overall build quality and interior finish are not up to modern standards. The 3.0-litre CR4 diesel engine provides decent power but suffers from a narrow powerband and significant turbo lag, making it less than ideal for city commutes. The suspension, though comfortable at low speeds, becomes bouncy at higher speeds, and the lack of ABS and poor sound insulation are notable drawbacks. Despite its strengths in off-road capability and spaciousness, the Sumo Gold CX feels outdated compared to newer models in the market.

The Tata Sumo Gold CX, although discontinued, was once priced at Rs. 7.70 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) and came with a 3.0-litre CR4 diesel engine producing 85PS of power and 250Nm of torque. It had a company-claimed mileage of 15.3 kmpl. I think this was a decent offering for its time, but it lacked the modern features and safety standards of newer vehicles.

Although the Sumo Gold CX has been discontinued, it remains a nostalgic favorite among many who remember its reliability and spaciousness. I think it will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who owned one.

In 2019, Tata Motors offered significant benefits on the Sumo Gold, including cash discounts, free insurance, and exchange bonuses, in an effort to boost sales. This move was part of their broader strategy to clear out older inventory. I believe such offers can be attractive for buyers looking for a budget-friendly option.

In April 2018, Tata Motors offered benefits worth Rs 33,000 on the 2018 models of the Tata Sumo Gold, including the CX variant, as part of their sales promotion. This was aimed at attracting more buyers to the older model.

The Sumo Gold CX competed directly with the Mahindra Bolero and the Maruti Ertiga in the MPV segment. Its spacious interior and robust build made it a favorite among those needing a reliable workhorse.

The Tata Sumo Gold CX is priced in the range of Rs. 7.70 lakh to Rs. 8.97 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, depending on the specific variant and location. On-road prices can vary significantly based on state taxes, registration fees, and other local charges, typically adding around Rs. 1-1.5 lakh to the ex-showroom price. For instance, in Delhi, the on-road price could be around Rs. 9-10 lakh. While the pricing is competitive in its segment, the overall value for money is questionable given the vehicles outdated design and features.

The Tata Sumo Gold CX offers a mileage of around 15.3 kmpl as per company claims, with user-reported mileage ranging from 14 to 15 kmpl. This is decent for a vehicle of its size and purpose, especially when considering its use for long drives and off-road adventures. However, the high service costs and fuel efficiency in city conditions (around 10 kmpl) need to be factored into the overall running costs.