INDIAN van manufacturer TATA has upgraded its Loadbeta range with a more dynamic look and various interior and underbonnet improvements. Fared-in headlights and indicators improve the vehicle's aero-dynamics and there are new composite moulded grey front and rear bumpers.

In the cab, the instrument binnacle is revised and door pockets have been reshaped to accommodate drink bottles and cans. Double cab versions now have rear head restraints on all three passenger seats and a heated rear windscreen is now standard. Full carpeting replaces the old rubber matting.

Under the bonnet, the power steering system has been revalved to give better 'feel' and a limited slip differential is standard. The final drive ratio has been changed to 4.55, lowering the gearing to make better use of engine torque and providing a more relaxed drive at high speeds.

Prices are unchanged and range from £7,495 ex-VAT for the 2.0TDi pick-up to £11,357 for the double cab 2.0TDi 4x4. This model has a payload of more than 1,000kg, which means that fleets can now claim back VAT under new tax rules covering such vehicles.