Tata Xenon XT (2017)

Expert Review by Maxabout

Tata Xenon XT is one of the rarest 4X4 pick-up trucks available in India. This segment of SUV’s is quite popular in America but when it comes to India, you don’t have many options. Currently, Mahindra Getaway is the only rival of Xenon XT. Does it deserve the top spot in its segment? Let’s find out.

Exterior

The huge size of Xenon XT defines the meaning of a true SUV. The heavy face and body of Xenon can grab anyone’s attention on road. We won’t say it’s a whole new car in terms of styling as its designed by the same team which gave shape to the new age Sumo Grande and Xenon XT looks quite similar to it. Xenon is a tall and wide vehicle which features upraised bonnet and headlights. There are noticeable lines on its bonnet which lead to the front bumper of this SUV. The black colored front grille with full size Tata logo and clear lens headlights on both sides forms the face of Xenon XT. The edgy front bumper comes with integrated round shaped fog lights and air dam. The up-raised muscular wheel arches of Xenon XT make it look wider and stronger than anything on road. With big wheels, side steps and roof rails, it looks extremely sporty. The new ORVMs come with integrated side indicators which add premium touch to this SUV. The large side doors forms the middle part of this SUV while you will also notice the long load bay at the back which helps this SUV top become even longer than Audi Q7. The rear look of Xenon XT gives it a unique identity on our roads. Its low positioned tail lights and bumper makes it a look like any typical pickup truck from the back.

Interior

Xenon XT certainly looks better than other Tata SUVs from inside. Its dual tone silver grey interiors look attractive and come with acceptable quality of plastic material. The three-spoke steering wheel and long gear knob also looks premium. Xenon XT is a five seater SUV which offers incredible amount of knee and head room at its front. Surprisingly, there is less leg room at the back and the rear seats are not that comfortable either. They offer less back support which is quite evident on long journeys. The front seats are quite comfortable and give you optimum under thigh and back support.

Comfort and Convenience

Tata Xenon XT comes with modern features like power windows, adjustable power steering, analogue clock, electrically adjustable ORVMs, powerful AC with heater which gives you maximum comfort.

Dashboard and Storage

Tata Xenon XT has a compact grey colored dashboard which comes with good quality of plastic material. It looks robust and adds premium touch to this SUV. The central console in this dashboard comes with AC vents and plastic buttons. The round shaped dials in its instrument console can also be seen in this dashboard. Xenon XT features an integrated glove box in its dashboard which is quite spacious. It has cup holder in its floor console and also comes with front door pockets. The load bay of Xenon XT can be used to carry major luggage on long journeys.

Music System

The company offers no integrated music system in this SUV.

Engine and Gearbox

This SUV is powered by a very powerful 2.2L DICOR engine which also supplies power to its elder siblings, Safari Storme and Aria. It’s a 16valves DOHC engine which produces a peak power of 140 bhp at 4000 rpm. The torque output of this 4-cylinder engine is of 320 Nm which ranges from 1700-2700 rpm. This engine is mated with a five speed manual gearbox.

Acceleration and Performance

It’s certainly a powerful engine which comes with strong low and mid-range. This engine does make a little bit of noise but to compensate, it supplies tremendous power on all terrains. It can easily cross the speed of 140km/hr and comes with an optional four wheel drive system. The linear power delivery makes it easy to drive this vehicle anywhere. The real fun begins when you take it off road. The massive amount of torque starts coming as early as 1500rpm which allows you to take on difficult off road challenges.

Mileage and Safety Features

Tata Xenon XT may return you a mileage of around 10-12km/ltr. It comes with standard safety features like child safety lock on rear doors, all important warnings, remote locking and rear protection roll bar.

Suspension and Braking System

The double wishbone suspension system at its front and parabolic leaf springs at the back gives you comfortable rides. Xenon XT features ventilated disc brakes with twin pot calliper at its front and auto adjustable drum brakes at the back. It also features ABS with EBD for precise braking.

Ride and Handling

The massive wheelbase of 3150mm and broad tyres add to the stability of this SUV at high speeds. The soft suspension system is not much impressive on road but performs brilliantly off road. The steering gives you right feedback and you enjoy light handling of this heavy vehicle. It can’t move frequently in city traffic due to its size and it requires effort from your side while parking at tight spaces. The high ground clearance of 200mm helps you while off roading but also results in body roll around corners. Hard-core off roaders will love this machine due to its light handling and superb off road performance.

Shades, Variants and Warranty

Two variants of Xenon XT are available in four shades. Tata offers a warranty of 2 years/75000 kilometres on this SUV.

Verdict

Undoubtedly, this pick-up truck is far more powerful and stylish than its only competitor, Mahindra Getaway. Xenon XT comes with all modern features and gives you incredible off road performance. Everything seems in the favour of this SUV apart from its pricing. Tata has surely overpriced this pick-up truck because in a market like India where such products are almost invisible on roads; we feel it’s too much to ask for.