Tata Mega XL Review

Tata Mega XL 

If you’re in Kenya and thinking of buying a mini truck, chances are you’ve already heard whispers about the Tata Mega XL (sometimes called the Tata Ace Mega XL). Since 2005.

What’s Under the Hood.

 The “Small But Mighty” Engine

Engine: 2-cylinder, 798 cc diesel. Yes, just 2 cylinders. But don’t laugh, it’s got a turbo, so technically it’s flexing at the gym.

Power: 40 HP. Not exactly a cheetah, but more like a hardworking donkey, slow, steady, and surprisingly strong.

Torque: 100 Nm, enough to pull a tonne of maize bags uphill without calling for backup.

Transmission: 5-speed manual, old-school, dependable, like the old Nokia 3310.

Fuel Tank: 30 litres, about two rounds of “Nairobi to Nakuru” if you’re nice to the accelerator.

Top Speed: Officially 80 km/h, but if you catch a downhill stretch, some swear it kisses 90. Just don’t try racing Probox drivers, you’ll lose, infact don't try any race.

Gradeability: Climbs 30% slopes. Perfect for Murang’a hills, shags mud tracks, or sneaking up your neighbor’s steep driveway.

Size, Load & Chassis

Payload: 1,000 kg (some say 1,030 kg, but let’s be honest, you’ll still overload it with 1,500 kg of charcoal and hope for the best).

GVW: 2,100 kg. Basically, it weighs about the same as three cows when fully loaded.

Kerb Weight: 1,070–1,100 kg. Empty, it’s lighter than most Prado drivers’ egos.

Load Body: About 8.2 feet long. Enough space for crates of soda and farm produce.

Wheelbase: Around 2.25 m. Short enough to fit in town alleys, long enough to haul serious cargo.

Suspension, Tyres & Handling.

Built for Kenyan Roads (and Non-Roads)

Suspension: Semi-elliptical leaf springs with shocks. In short: strong enough for cargo, but don’t expect Mercedes comfort.

Tyres: 165 R14 LT radials, think of them as the hardworking safari boots of the Maasai Moran.

Turning Radius: About 4.8 m. Tight enough to U-turn inside a market without knocking over Mama Mboga’s stall (if you’re careful).

Why you should Love It.

1. Fuel Economy: Around 18.5 km/L. That’s cheaper than sending a boda every time you have cargo.

2. Low Maintenance: Simple engine, easy to fix. Most mechanics in Gikomba can service it blindfolded.

3. Perfect Size: Not too big, not too small. It fits in narrow estate roads but still carries a full tonne.

4. Handles Rough Roads: With 175 mm ground clearance, it’s like wearing gumboots in the rainy season,safe and steady.

5. Hill Climber: 30% gradeability. It’ll tackle hills your Subaru squad brags about, but with onions in the back instead of loud music.

What’s Not So Great

Speed Dreams? Forget It. 80 km/h is the ceiling. If you want speed, buy a Subaru

Comfort? Ha! The cabin is more “matatu basic” than “Prado luxury.” Bring a cushion if you’re on long trips.

Safety: Seat belts, brakes, and prayers. Don’t expect airbags or lane assist here.

Overloading Consequences: Treat it like a lorry and you’ll be best friends with your mechanic.

Fuel Tank: 30 litres. Great for town runs, but if you’re delivering mbogas to Marsabit, better carry jerrycans.

Final Verdict .

The Hustler’s Partner.

The Tata Mega XL is like that reliable friend who never complains, never shows off, but always comes through when you need them. It’s not fancy, not fast, but it’s tough, cheap to run, and perfect for Kenyan small traders who want profits, not problems.

Rating: 7.5/10

Not perfect, but definitely one of the smartest investments for short hauls, local deliveries, and rural hustle.

Tips for Buyers in Kenya

Check the import year, emission rules can mess with your registration.

Inspect suspension and tyres (especially if the seller swears “it’s never carried heavy loads” big lie).

If you drive all day in the sun, look for a cabin with AC, or invest in a good hahandkerchief. 

Don’t overload unless you enjoy donating money to mechanics.

Build a relationship with Tata spares dealers, they’ll save your hustle more times than Safaricom data bundles.


If your business needs a no-nonsense, low-cost truck that laughs at potholes and carries your hustle faithfully, the Tata Mega XL is your guy.


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