Summary:
If it was a horse, I'd shoot it
Faults:
Fills the street up with white smoke when starting from cold.
"Starting from cold" means above 5 degrees C or it simply doesn't.
Replaced glow plug controller, glow plugs, oil and filter change after using a fuel system and oil flush, added a reputable "stop smoke" oil additive, but still no improvement in starting or smoke problem.
I needed to remove existing parts to be replaced as 5 of the part dealers in my town had no listings for this makes parts.
As far as I know, only 4 or 5 dealers nationwide.
General Comments:
Generally the pick up is a good, solid vehicle, bodywork and suspension wise, but the engine and transmission are a massive let-down.
The gearstick has 3 inches movement sideways whilst in gear.
Stick to A roads as at 60mph, the engine is at 5500rpm.
Does not like hills, any roads bumpier than an airfield, starting in the mornings and the ozone layer.
I personally have lost 14 days work when it would not start on a cold morning.
Perhaps I just own a bad example of this vehicle and as I bought it second-hand, I could not vouch for its previous treatment, but I personally would not buy another vehicle of this make.
When I first opened the bonnet and noticed an in-built light and switch for the engine bay, I should of realized what I was to come.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 13th March, 2004
14th Jul 2006, 09:34
You should try the 2005 model Tata pick up available in the market and dealers. Very good value for money. Phenomenal improvement compared to the older versions.
16th Apr 2007, 22:52
Plastic and build quality is dreadful, I personally would never buy one. And the depreciation is scaring here in Turkey : buy it from 29 grand, a month later you have to wait for ages for a buyer to show up where you posted a sales ad for 15.5 grand!!!
15th Apr 2008, 17:03
I have also just brought a W reg TATA Loadbeta Twin Cab 2.0 Tdi LWB.
My Rover 418 SLD Turbo Tourer was going to cost me more than £400 to Mot & put 6 months tax on. So I swapped it with the guy who I got the rover from.
OK. The Rover was more comfortable & had way more Electrics & option than this basic pickup. But the Loadbeta, after I put £16.00 diesel in the tank. Was happy to cover 75 miles & still leave me with over 1/4 of a tank (it was just below 1/2).
When going thru town, it will happily chug on at 35 - 40 mph in 5th.
The handbook says it will do 90mph. But I am happy at 60mph. Had my fun with the rover.
I live in the country, so the loadbeta it right at home. It's a shame its payload in the back isn't high, but it isn't a tank.
Hoping to have many happy years with this one.