Last-week, we reported that Tata Motors is silently developing the compact version of its flaghship crossover, the Aria MPV to compete with the likes of Ertiga and Quanto. Now the folks at Overdrive reveal that apart from the shortened Aria, the company is also developing sub-four meter Sumo Gold, which could make its debut as early as next year with an estimated price tag of Rs 5 lakh.
Furthermore, they reveal that the exterior design of the Mini Sumo is ready, which means the engine to be used in the vehicle is still under discussion. The design of all-new Mini Sumo has been jointly designed by Tata Motors European Technical Centre in Warwick and the design team in India. It will be a 7-seater (5 adults + 2 jump seats) the last two seats might be for the kids similar to the Quanto.
Just chopping of the length and tucking it within the four-meter mark is not the only criteria to qualify under the 12 per cent excise duty bracket. The diesel engine needs to be under 1500cc and to meet the norms the only option for Tata is to dump the 3.0-litre DI motor from the full-sized Sumo. It remains to be seen whether Tata Motors adopts the 1.3-litre Multijet turbo diesel engine for use or the 1.4-litre CR4 from the Indica is another option, what do you think the Tata will use? Do leave a comment below.
Also see – Tata Motors working on a sub 4-meter Aria!
Source – Overdrive
