With performance, safety, comfort, style and functionality the Tata Xenon XT comes with an impressive list of features for different lifestyles.
The range will be available in four variants - a single cab and double cab, both in 4x2 and 4x4 versions. During its launch we were given the opportunity to drive the 4x2 double cab over different kinds of terrain and, considering the prices as supplied below, it was considered a brand to put on the shopping list.
Even over rough terrain, there was not a single rattle although the ride must be called utilitarian rather than comfortable.
The range offers plenty of features including navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, dual airbags, ABS, differential lock on the double cab and limited slip differential on the single cab.
KEY MARKET
We can expect to see a lot more of the Xenon XT once it gets introduced locally, which the local dealer says will probably be towards the end of 2013. It will be regarded as a good work horse for farmers, construction and small enterprises as well as budget-friendly for family and leisure.
Mr RT Wasan, head of international business in commercial vehicles division of Tata Motors, said, "We are excited to launch the all-new Tata Xenon XT as yet another addition to our offering for the South African market. South Africa is a key strategic market for Tata Motors. The launch of the Tata Xenon XT will further fortify our position in the South African automotive industry and motivate us to develop more such exciting vehicles for our customers."
"South Africa has the highest number of Tata passenger cars outside India, which goes to show the trust the South African consumer has placed in the Tata brand. This trust will continue to grow as more and more PVs and CVs are added to the impressive list of Tata vehicles in our country," said Phonnie Cilliers, COO of Accordian Investments, at the launch.
"We considered our customers while developing the Xenon XT. The vehicle has more power, higher torque, better fuel efficiency and lower emissions as well as offering comfortable and safe driving," he said.
ADDED VALUE
Included with the vehicle is a four year or 12 0000km manufacturer warranty, a four year or 120 000km anti-corrosion warranty, a five year or 90 000km service plan and four years of unlimited kilometres roadside assistance, all as standard.
The Xenon XT has also been shown to have a very low cost of ownership, thanks to its low acquisition cost, good fuel efficiency, competitive spare parts cost and low cost of maintenance.
The existing Xenon double cab has been ranked first in South Africa for the second year in a row as having the most competitive parts price basket. "The Xenon XT is a complete package that offers a superior value proposition to our customers," said Mr Rudrarup Maitra, head of sales and international business in the commercial vehicle division of Tata Motors.
TECHNOLOGY
The Tata Xenon XT is packed with what the company describes as 'XTreme Technology'. It is powered by a new generation 2,2-litres Variable Turbine Technology, Direct Injection Common Rail (VTT DiCOR) engine that incorporates state-of-the-art technology. This is the same Euro V engine that powers the Xenon range across the world.
The engine delivers peak power of 110kW at 4 000rpm and peak torque of 320Nm over a wide rpm range of 1 500 to 3 000.
The vertical centralised injector and the variable swirl system together provide good air and fuel mixing that result in complete combustion and outstanding fuel efficiency and therefore, low emissions.
This innovative engine technology provides the best-in-class performance as well as being environmentally friendly.
FEATURES
Care has been taken to ensure driver and passenger safety with advanced features for both active and passive safety.
It has been designed for extreme performance and comfortable driving with low Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH). With electric windows, power steering, navigation, Bluetooth, radio, MP3, side steps, bucket seats with armrests and tiltable steering column the Tata Xenon XT offers a lot as standard.
Its European styling gives the vehicle an attractive appearance and it has the typical Tata chrome grille. Attractive clear lensed headlamps are complimented by the flared wheel arches. The bakkie further boasts alloy wheels, neat door handles and indicators on the side rear view mirrors.
PRICING
The Xenon XT will be available in South Africa at the following price range: Xenon XT Single Cab 4x2 - R189 995; Xenon XT Single Cab 4x4 - R 245 995; Xenon XT Double Cab 4x2 - R239 995; Xenon XT Double Cab 4x4 - R269 995. All prices include Vat.

The Xenon looks ready to tackle the job as a good workhorse for farmers, construction and small enterprises.
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