Tata Xenon 2.2 d (140 Hp) 4×4

The Tata Xenon 2.2 d (140 Hp) 4×4 is a four-door, five-seat pickup truck produced by the Indian manufacturer Tata Motors between 2007 and 2012. It represents a significant step in Tata’s ambition to produce globally competitive vehicles, offering a blend of rugged utility and relatively modern features for the emerging markets it primarily targeted. The Xenon was based on the Tata TL platform, sharing components with the Tata Safari SUV, and aimed to provide a versatile vehicle for both commercial and personal use. This specific 2.2-liter diesel variant, producing 140 horsepower, occupied a mid-range position within the Xenon lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and affordability.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of the Tata Xenon 2.2 d (140 Hp) 4×4 is the 2179 cc (132.97 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated as a 2.2 DiCOR engine by Tata. “DiCOR” stands for Direct Injection Common Rail, highlighting the engine’s advanced fuel injection system. This common rail diesel injection (CRDI) system, supplied by Bosch, delivers fuel at extremely high pressure directly into the combustion chamber, optimizing combustion efficiency and reducing emissions. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to increase power output and improve torque across a wider RPM range. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis.

The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and overall engine performance. The engine’s lubrication system requires 7.5 liters (7.93 US qt / 6.6 UK qt) of oil meeting specific Tata specifications. The cooling system holds 8 liters (8.45 US qt / 7.04 UK qt) of coolant. The engine produces a maximum torque of 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) between 1700 and 2700 rpm, providing ample pulling power for hauling and off-road driving. The engine’s power output of 140 hp is achieved at 4000 rpm.

The Xenon 2.2 d (140 Hp) 4×4 is equipped with a five-speed manual transmission. This transmission was chosen for its robustness and suitability for the vehicle’s intended applications. The gear ratios are tuned to provide a balance between acceleration and fuel economy, with a focus on maximizing torque delivery for off-road and load-carrying scenarios.

Driving Characteristics

The driving experience of the Tata Xenon 2.2 d (140 Hp) 4×4 is characterized by its robust nature and focus on utility rather than outright performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 15.5 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in around 14.7 seconds. The top speed is rated at 165 km/h (102.53 mph). While these figures are not particularly impressive, they are adequate for the vehicle’s intended purpose. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it well-suited for navigating challenging terrain and hauling heavy loads. The five-speed manual transmission requires deliberate shifting, but provides good control over the engine’s power delivery. Compared to potential higher-output versions (which were not widely available), this 140 hp variant prioritized fuel efficiency and affordability over outright speed. The 4×4 system provides enhanced traction in off-road conditions, making it a capable vehicle for rural and agricultural applications.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Tata Xenon 2.2 d (140 Hp) 4×4 was generally equipped with a functional, rather than luxurious, interior. Standard features typically included basic cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout, and manual air conditioning. Power steering was standard, utilizing an electric system. The vehicle featured basic instrumentation, including a speedometer, tachometer, and fuel gauge. Safety features were relatively limited, typically including an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as a key safety component. Optional extras could include power windows, central locking, and a basic audio system. The interior trim levels were generally consistent across the 2.2 d 4×4 models, with variations primarily relating to the availability of optional equipment.

Chassis & Braking

The Tata Xenon 2.2 d (140 Hp) 4×4 utilizes a robust chassis designed to withstand the stresses of off-road driving and load carrying. The front suspension employs a double wishbone configuration, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension utilizes a leaf spring setup, which is well-suited for carrying heavy loads but can result in a firmer ride. The braking system features ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. The ABS system helps to prevent wheel lockup during braking, improving stability and control. The vehicle rides on 235/70 R16 tires mounted on 16-inch steel wheels. The ride height (ground clearance) is 200 mm (7.87 in), providing adequate clearance for off-road obstacles.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Tata Xenon 2.2 d (140 Hp) 4×4 was generally well-received in the markets it targeted, particularly in developing countries where its combination of affordability, ruggedness, and practicality were highly valued. Critics noted its robust construction and capable 4×4 system, but also pointed out its relatively basic interior and lack of refinement compared to some of its competitors. Fuel economy was a strong point, with a combined fuel consumption of 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg / 38.2 UK mpg / 13.5 km/l). Compared to other trims in the Xenon lineup, the 2.2 d (140 Hp) 4×4 offered a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It was more affordable than higher-powered variants, making it accessible to a wider range of buyers. Reliability was generally considered to be acceptable, although maintenance costs could be higher than some competitors due to the availability of parts and specialized service.

Technical Specifications

Legacy

The Tata Xenon 2.2 d (140 Hp) 4×4, while no longer in production, remains a relatively common sight in many developing countries. Its robust construction and capable 4×4 system have contributed to its longevity. The 2.2 DiCOR engine, while not without its quirks, has proven to be reasonably reliable with proper maintenance. In the used car market, these Xenons are often sought after for their affordability and practicality. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for higher maintenance costs due to the age of the vehicles and the availability of parts. The Xenon represented a significant step forward for Tata Motors, demonstrating their ability to produce a competitive pickup truck for the global market. It paved the way for future Tata vehicles and helped to establish the brand as a player in the international automotive industry.