Tata Xenon: The Indian Pickup for the European Market
The Tata Xenon is a pickup truck introduced by Tata Motors in 2007, sold in India, Europe, and South Africa. In this article, we review its technology, engines, and what to check when looking for a used Xenon.
Xenon in brief
The Xenon is the second-generation Tata Telcoline pickup, renamed to avoid confusion with the previous model. It features a ladder-frame construction and is designed for work and daily commuting.
In Europe, it was well-received in Spain and Italy. It's quite rare in Lithuania.
Which version to choose
The four-door, five-seater Xenon XT version appeared in 2009. The Yodha version was updated in 2017, and the Yodha 2.0 in 2022.
Both single-cab and double-cab variants are available, with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. Your choice depends on whether you need to carry people or mostly cargo.
Engines and transmissions
In Europe, a 2.2-litre turbodiesel with Common Rail system was used: initially Euro 4 with 140 hp, and from 2012, updated to Euro 5 with around 150 hp. The transmission is a five-speed manual.
The Xenon comes with ABS and other safety features, and later European models also got stability control. The drivetrain is rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.
What to check when buying a used Xenon
Inspect the frame, cargo area, and cabin for corrosion. Check if the vehicle hasn't been used under excessively harsh conditions or overloaded.
Check the diesel engine's operation, injection system, and particle filter (Euro 5), the transmission, and the all-wheel drive system.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we describe the most commonly encountered versions.
Xenon 2,2 DICOR 140
from 2007The first European version with Euro 4 engine.
- 2.2-litre turbodiesel, around 140 hp
- Five-speed manual gearbox
- Rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive
Xenon XT
from 2009Four-door, five-seater version.
- Double cab, five seats
- Often — additional comfort equipment
- Often — lightweight alloy wheels
Xenon Euro 5
from 2012Updated version with around 150 hp.
- 2.2-litre turbodiesel, around 150 hp
- Often — particle filter and variable geometry turbo
- Rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive
Comparison of trims
| 2,2 DICOR 140 | XT | Euro 5 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For work and daily driving | For people and cargo hauling | For the newer version |
| Engine | 2.2 L, around 140 HP | 2.2 L turbodiesel | 2.2 L, around 150 HP |
| Cab | Single or double | Double | Single or double |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | €€ | €€ |
The best choice for many buyers is the Xenon XT with a double cab and a tidy diesel engine. The Euro 5 version is ideal if you're after a newer vehicle.
Pros
- Robust construction and a spacious load area
- Diesel engine with Common Rail technology
- Double cab with seating for five
- More affordable than competitors
Cons
- Plush comfort and excellent noise insulation
- Limited choice of parts and services
- Less renowned for retaining its value
Frequently asked questions
Are Xenon and Telcoline the same?
Xenon is the export name for the newer generation of Telcoline, designed to distinguish it from the previous model.
What engine does the Xenon have?
In Europe, it's mostly the 2.2-litre turbodiesel with Common Rail: around 140 hp (Euro 4) and around 150 hp (Euro 5).
Does the Xenon come with four-wheel drive?
Yes, both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive versions are available. Check the specific version in the documentation.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically





























