Spearheaded by the Isuzu V-Max D-Cross, the nascent Indian pick-up/lifestyle truck market is showing the first signs of picking up. So its time for the old boys like the Tata Xenon to chin up and cash in on the newfound, mild craze. Yes, the Xenon still exists, but does better business in the export market than in the domestic market. Now it’s time for a face-lift, a subtle one at that.
Performance Factory caught the Tata Xenon face-lift testing on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, giving us an early peek into how the updated pick-up will look once it launches sometime next year. The face-lift is a blink-and-you-miss-it type, and includes a revised front grille with a chrome applique, a new front bumper and updated tail lamp clusters. That’s about it.
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The interiors shall continue largely unchanged, apart from certain revisions in trim, and maybe an updated entertainment system. The best part is that the Xenon face-lift will be powered by the new 2.2-litre VARICOR400 diesel engine that powers the Hexa and the Safari Storme. It’s rated at a healthy 156 PS, along with a healthier 400 Nm of torque. 4WD will be an option, while the engine should be mated to the new 6-speed MT.
Expect the 2017 Tata Xenon to retail with a premium of INR 20,000-30,000 over the current model, which starts at INR 9.96 Lakh (ex-showroom).
