I was very excited about the the Sumo Grande after watching the photographs etc in Auto Expo and was waiting for it. Finally, I took a test drive yesterday.
The first thing that hits you is its enormous size. It looks big and feels big from the inside as well. The third row has very good legroom. On a closer look, you will notice that there is no space for a single suitcase after the third row - something that Innova has. I felt that having the fifth tyre on the door like Safari would have given it a sportier look. The exterior paint job is well done.
Push the behemoth into the first gear and you will experience the notchy gears - an old ailment which all Tata cars suffer from. The pick up is decent and I was satisfied with the pick/performance till the second gear. However, above that, I think the car betrays its size and power. The engine noise is less compared to a Tata deisel car - frankly, I was expecting it to be a lot more noisy.
The worst part is the suspension. You feel as if you are riding an elephant in the Corbett National park!! Tatas could have made this a winner in the SUV segment if the ride quality was better. The middle row passengers were moving sideways, and I am talking about smooth roads!!
The interiors could have better, but considering the Grande price, I think we should not complain. The AC blowers are placed all over the car - sensible feature.
Overall, I would say go for a SUmo only if you have a family of eight and cannot go above 8 lacs!