Tempo traveller has become a household name in India, especially when it comes to group travels. Irrespective of whether you are out on a family vacation, corporate transport, tourist operators or even school trips, the tempo traveller stands out. It is one of the most reliable and versatile people movers on Indian roads. The Traveller series is known for its robust build quality, powerful diesel engine, spacious cabin, and more.
This article will take an in-depth review of the Tempo Traveller, thus covering important points like its price range, the mileage, engine specifications, load capacity and more.
Tempo Traveller: Overview
The Tempo Traveller is a commercial passenger vehicle that is designed to primarily transport groups of passengers, It was first launched in India back in 1987, thus marking a significant shift in the country’s light commercial and passenger transport cars. Originally, the van was introduced under Tempo, which was later called ‘Force Traveller’. However, it was later developed in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz technology. This association actually helped up helping the vehicle gain trust in the market, for its durability, strong performance, and strong build.
Evolution over the years
In its early yesteryears, the Tempo Traveller was primarily used for transport of staff purposes and for institutional purposes. However, as the road infrastructure went on to improve and tourism expanded in India, so did the Traveller. It had slowly start holding onto a new identity and embraced itself asa tourist and intercity transport vehicle.
The Traveller has undergone several key phases during its evolution mode and this includes:
- The Early 1990s: This is the introduction of improved diesel engines and higher seating capacity variants.
- Early 2000s: During this period, the Traveller launched the High Roof variants, which revolutionized the comfort for passengers covering long distances.
- 2010s: The Traveller vans came with enhanced interiors, better suspension, and safer braking systems.
- 2020 onwards: This saw a transition to BS6-compliant engines and it focused on lower emissions and better fuel efficiency. This came as a huge improvement over the decades. Each upgrade saw a better version of the Traveller, and it became more dependable as a long-haul people mover.
Tempo Traveller Price, Variants and Seating Capacity
Traveller Ex Showroom Price Details
| Variant | Seating Capacity | Base Vehicle Price | GST Included | Dealer Handling | Ex-Showroom Price |
| Tempo Traveller 9 Seater | 9 | ₹11.2 lakh | ₹1.25 lakh | ₹15,000 | ₹12.6 lakh |
| Tempo Traveller 12 Seater | 12 | ₹12.0 lakh | ₹1.35 lakh | ₹15,000 | ₹13.4 lakh |
| Tempo Traveller 14 Seater | 14 | ₹12.8 lakh | ₹1.45 lakh | ₹15,000 | ₹14.3 lakh |
| Tempo Traveller 17 Seater | 17 | ₹13.9 lakh | ₹1.55 lakh | ₹20,000 | ₹15.4 lakh |
| Tempo Traveller 20 Seater | 20 | ₹15.0 lakh | ₹1.65 lakh | ₹20,000 | ₹16.6 lakh |
| Tempo Traveller 26 Seater | 26 | ₹16.5 lakh | ₹1.70 lakh | ₹25,000 | ₹18.2 lakh |
Tempo Traveller On Road Price Details
| Variant | Ex-Showroom Price | RTO & Road Tax | Insurance | Other Charges | On-Road Price |
| Tempo Traveller 9 Seater | ₹12.6 lakh | ₹1.4–1.6 lakh | ₹55,000–65,000 | ₹25,000–30,000 | ₹14.9–15.2 lakh |
| Tempo Traveller 12 Seater | ₹13.4 lakh | ₹1.5–1.7 lakh | ₹58,000–68,000 | ₹25,000–30,000 | ₹15.7–16.1 lakh |
| Tempo Traveller 14 Seater | ₹14.3 lakh | ₹1.6–1.8 lakh | ₹60,000–70,000 | ₹25,000–30,000 | ₹16.6–17.0 lakh |
| Tempo Traveller 17 Seater | ₹15.4 lakh | ₹1.8–2.0 lakh | ₹65,000–75,000 | ₹30,000–35,000 | ₹17.9–18.4 lakh |
| Tempo Traveller 20 Seater | ₹16.6 lakh | ₹2.0–2.2 lakh | ₹70,000–80,000 | ₹30,000–35,000 | ₹19.3–19.8 lakh |
| Tempo Traveller 26 Seater | ₹18.2 lakh | ₹2.2–2.5 lakh | ₹75,000–90,000 | ₹30,000–40,000 | ₹21.2–21.9 lakh |
Key Specifications
The Tempo Traveller is powered by a 2596 cc, a 4 cylinder diesel producing 114-115 horsepower and 350Nm torque. The Traveller also features 70 liters fuel tank and has a manual transmission. The wheelbases range from 3050 to 4020 mm, with GVW up to 4675 kg. This ensures stability for varied types of roads. The mileage hovers at around 11-17 kmpl, thus making it quite economical for long drives.
| Specification | Details |
| Engine Type | FM 2.6 CR Diesel (BS6) |
| Engine Displacement | 2596 cc |
| Maximum Power | 91 PS |
| Maximum Torque | 350 Nm |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Seating Capacity | 9 to 26 passengers |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 3675 kg |
| Drive Type | Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) |
| Emission Norm | BS6 Phase 2 |
| Chassis Type | Chassis with Cabin |
Tempo Traveller Colors: Available Options
The Tempo Traveller is offered on the market with a variety of colors that are commercially friendly. These include:
- White
- School Bus Yellow
- Silver
- Grey
- Ivory
- Custom Color (for specialized orders)
Engine & Performance
The Temp Traveller is powered by a 2.6-liter common rail diesel engine, which is designed for long-distance and heavy-duty operations.
The details of the engines are:
- 4 cylinder diesel engine
- A high-powered torque output for loaded conditions
- Optimised for highways and city routes
- BS6-compliant with reduced emissions
Tempo Traveller Mileage, Fuel Efficiency and Dimensions
The mileage of the van depends on various factors like seating configuration, driving conditions, and load capacity. However, we do know that the Traveller is designed to deliver stable fuel efficiency over long hours of operation.
- The City Mileage is around 8-9 km/l
- Highway Mileage is around 11-17km/l
The length of the van shows a 5120-6700 mm, whereas the width of the van is about 2000mm. The height is upto 2800 mm, and the wheelbase stays strong at 3050 to 3700 mm.
| Dimension | Measurement |
| Length | 5120 – 6700 mm |
| Width | 2000 mm |
| Height | Up to 2800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3050 / 3350 / 3700 mm |
Weight and Capacity
The gross weight (GVW) of the van is around 3675 kg, and the seating capacity is a maximum of 26 passengers.
| Parameter | Details |
| Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) | 3675 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 9 to 26 passengers |
| Luggage Space | Available (variant dependent) |
Tempo Traveller Interior Features
- The van has a comfortable push-back passenger seat
- There is a high roof option for better and easier movement
- Features larger side windows to get a clear view
- The air conditioning is overall considered more efficient, but this depends on the variant
- Overhead and rear luggage space is available
Traveller Exterior Features
- The Traveller has a large windshield for better and enhanced visibility
- A wide passenger entry door is available to make it easier for entrance
- High ground clearance is quite suitable for Indian roads.
- The body of the Van is built on robustness and sturdiness so it has a strong construction.
Traveller Advance Safety Features
Every vehicle must have its safety and security intact. The Tempo Traveller has the following safety features, making it suitable for all passengers.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Disc brakes at the front for extra safety
- Seat Belts for all passengers
- Sturdy chassis with a resilient and robust body structure, so it can’t be shaken very easily
- Emergency safety equipment as per the commercial norms.
Tempo Traveller Variants Comparison and Lineup
The Tempo Traveller is offering as many as 14 variants that are naturally tailored for various seating and fuel requirements. The table is a comparison of the wheelbase, seating capacity, the fuel type, gross weight of the vehicle, and the ex-showroom price.
| Variant | Wheelbase (mm) | Seating | GVW (kg) | Fuel Type | Ex-Showroom Price (₹ Lakh) |
| 3050WB/9-Seater | 3050 | 9 | 3675 | Diesel | 12-14 |
| 3050WB/12-Seater | 3050 | 12 | 3675 | Diesel | 12-15 |
| 3050WB/13-Seater | 3050 | 13 | 3675 | Diesel | 13-16 |
| 3350WB/9-Seater | 3350 | 9 | 3965 | Diesel | 14-17 |
| 3350WB/12-Seater | 3350 | 12 | 3965 | Diesel | 15-18 |
| 3350WB/13-Seater | 3350 | 13 | 3965 | Diesel | 15-19 |
| 3350WB/14-Seater | 3350 | 14 | 3965 | Diesel | 15-19 |
| 3700WB/12-Seater | 3700 | 12 | 4300 | Diesel | 16-20 |
| 3700WB/17-Seater | 3700 | 17 | 4300-4400 | Diesel/CNG | 17-21 |
| 4020WB/19-Seater | 4020 | 19 | 4675 | Diesel | 18-22 |
| 4020WB/20-Seater | 4020 | 20 | 4675-4850 | Diesel/CNG | 18-22 |
| 4020WB/22-Seater/CNG | 4020 | 22 | 6100 | CNG | 19-24 |
| Traveller 26 | 4020 | 26 | ~4850 | Diesel | 14-19.42 |
Comparison with Similar Vehicles
The Tempo Traveller sits between budget people movers and premium vans. The Tata Magic Express is considered a cheaper bet and more compact for short trips – it lacks power and space. The Tempo Trax Toofan offers off-road capability but less comfort. The Tata Winger is a close rival in terms of power, and the Tempo Urbania is full on luxury segment. The verdict remains with Tempo Traveller, sitting comfortably between budget and luxury.
| Competitor | Price Range (₹ Lakh) | Max Power | GVW (kg) | Key Edge Over Traveller |
| Tata Magic Express | 7-10 | 20-30 HP | 1760-2875 | Cheaper, compact |
| Tempo Trax Toofan | 8.7+ | ~90 HP | ~3000 | Off-road capable |
| Tata Winger | 14-15 | ~90 HP | ~4000 | Similar seating |
| Tempo Urbania | 30-37 | 120+ HP | 4610+ | Luxury, more power |
Conclusion
The Tempo Traveller is considered to be one of the most dependable and resilient versatile passenger vehicles in India. With the multiple seating options, modest diesel engine, good but practical features, and competitive pricing, the Van caters to several requirements. The van is positioned btween entry level vans and premium people movies and it offers the right balance of capacity, comfort, and economy. This makes it a long-term investment meant for value, durability, and comfort.
FAQs
The Traveller has a seating capacity of 9-26 pax
The Tempo Traveller is powered by a 2.6 litre FM CR BS6 diesel engine with a high horsepower and 350Nm.
The ex-showroom price is retailed at INR 12.6 lakhs, and it goes up to INR 18.26 lakhs.
Yes, this is considered safe as well as comfortable.
