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Tata is hoping to outshine its original Xenon bakkie with a new model, the Xenon 2.2L DLE, which puts out more power and torque from its turbodiesel engine that the current three-litre plant.

There's the added benefit of improved fuel economy as well.

The new 2.2-litre direct-injection common rail, four-cylinder diesel is a new-generation engine that develops 103kW at 4000rpm and 320Nm of torque that is available from 1700rpm to 2700rpm.

Compare that to the 85Kw and 300Nm of the previous model and it is clear that the Xenon's improved pulling power will go a long way to shifting its maximum payload of 1200kg while still performing and handling well.

Range boost

The bakkie keeps the 65-litre fuel tank from the previous model, but range is increased because the engine is lighter on fuel. Tata doesn't provide figures but claims that it is substantially improved.

The engine drives a 5-speed manual transmission in either 4X2 or 4X4 mode, depending on the model.

All-wheel-drive models have electronic, on-the-fly switching, a low-range transfer case and self-locking hubs at the front. A limited slip differential drives the rear wheels.

Keep it simple

Tata has opted to keep the suspension simple, sturdy and reliable by fitting an independent double-wishbone with a torsion bar in the front and leaf-springs in the back. The setup provides 210mm of ground clearance and is the base for an all-steel, double-skinned loadbox.

Vacuum-assisted hydraulic brakes - two-pot callipers in the front and drums in the rear – use a pressure-reducing valve to compensate for load when braking, and the 215R 16C 106 S rubber on the 16-inch wheels helps keep a straight and steady line.

Beefed up

The Xenon has also undergone a bit of a facelift which is aimed at making it appear "beefier, sturdier, and more appealing all together", according to Tata.

Widened wheel arches, new front and rear foglamps and a tubular-steel rear bumper with an integrated step are all part of the new look.

The cabin, which has more leg- and head-room, has a comprehensive list of standard features, which includes a pollen-filtering air-conditioner, electric windows, powered and heated mirrors and a radio/CD-player audio with USB port for MP3 and other portable audio devices.

Where's the sticker?

It's a load-hauler and leisure vehicle in one, offering rugged operation with a high level of cabin comfort and more power up front.

Tata is keeping mum on prices but with previous models going for between R134 000 and R179 000, there's hope for a reasonably-priced follow-up.

The sticker includes a three-years or 100 000km warranty, a three-year or 75 000km service plan and a two-year emergency roadside assistance service.

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