[2] The Sumo was based on the Telcoline's Tata X2 body-on-frame platform[3] with a redesigned and strengthened rear axle to adapt it to off-road use with part-time all-wheel drive (rear-wheel drive with the option of traction in off-road situations only) with grafting system an electric control up to 60 km/h, self-locking rear differential and manual block front hubs, then eliminated in favor of the fully automatic solution.

Upon release, Tata Sumo quickly captured a major segment of the utility automobile market in India.

[4] The engine was the same as the Telcoline: the 2.0-liter (1,948 cc) four-cylinder diesel Peugeot XD88 naturally aspirated manufactured under license by Tata Motors in India with two valves per cylinder and indirect injection with pre-chamber and 63 horsepower.

Riding on a longer wheelbase as compared to earlier version, the Spacio used a different transmission, rear axle and tyres specifically to get better fuel economy.

In later part of the 2007, Tata Motors launched the upgraded version called Sumo Victa Turbo DI,[10] the power-train was carried over from the Spacio the body styling and interiors were carried from Sumo Victa viz the positioning of the spare wheel was changed from the rear tailgate to the underbody of the vehicle.

The old 3.0 turbo diesel with direct injection but without common rail delivering 70 horsepower and 225 Nm of torque rest in production.

Inside are introduced new fabrics, new air conditioning controls and new instrumentation in addition to faux briar finish.

The last facelift come in October 2013: Tata Motors update the interior with a new radio CD and MP3, dual zone A/C and new colour and sticker for the body.