Explore the Ashok Leyland Bada Dost i2: Performance, Fuel Efficiency, TCO & Price in 2026

The Ashok Leyland Bada Dost i2 is a versatile small commercial vehicle (SCV) designed for small-scale logistics, last-mile delivery, and individual cargo transportation businesses. With its focus on high uptime, durability, and cost efficiency, it offers a compelling solution for business owners looking to enhance fleet profitability. In 2026, the Bada Dost i2 continues to stand out as a reliable and efficient option in the SCV segment.

Engine & Performance

The Bada Dost i2 is powered by a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder diesel engine coupled with a 5-speed manual transmission, delivering 70 hp at 3300 rpm and 190 Nm of torque between 1600–2400 rpm. Its low-end torque ensures smooth load-pulling, even on steep inclines, while maintaining fuel efficiency of 13–15 kmpl. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses that operate in both urban and rural areas.

The engine has been extensively tested across multiple heat cycles and varied terrains to ensure optimal thermal efficiency and consistent performance under load. The integration of a manual gearbox allows for maximum torque utilization, enhancing overall Bada Dost i2 5-speed manual performance.

Suspension & Ride Comfort

Unlike conventional small commercial vehicles, the Bada Dost i2 features parabolic leaf spring suspension on both front and rear axles, paired with double-acting shock absorbers. Typically, rear axles in trucks use a semi-elliptical setup, but Ashok Leyland’s parabolic suspension ensures superior ride comfort, stability, and stress absorption under both loaded and unloaded conditions. This makes the vehicle safer and more comfortable for drivers during long operating hours.

Brakes & Safety

The Bada Dost i2 comes with vacuum-assisted hydraulic brakes and a twin LCRV load-sensing system, which adjusts brake pressure based on the distribution of cargo. This system prevents wheel lock-up under heavy load, ensuring reliable braking in all conditions. These features make it a safe choice for both city deliveries and longer highway trips.

Cargo Body & Payload

With a fixed side deck (FSD) cargo body measuring 2745 mm × 1750 mm × 440 mm, the Bada Dost i2 can handle a payload of 1,425 kg. Its longer load body accommodates bulky or voluminous goods efficiently, making it ideal for transporting fruits and vegetables, FMCG items, water canisters, chemical products, cement bags, pharmaceuticals, poultry, beverages, and e-commerce packages. This high payload capability enhances overall fleet productivity and profitability.

Total Cost of Ownership (TCO)

One of the biggest advantages of the Bada Dost i2 is its low TCO. Assuming the truck runs 150 km/day for 20 days a month, over 10 years it would cover approximately 360,000 km. At a fuel efficiency of 13 kmpl and diesel cost of Rs 87.71/litre, total fuel consumption would be 27,693 litres, costing Rs 24.28 lakh.

Service costs for 45 services (at Rs 5,000 per service) would amount to Rs 2.25 lakh, while insurance, taxes, and RTO charges add roughly Rs 50,000, bringing total 10-year expenses to Rs 35.63 lakh. This results in a cost per km of Rs 9.89, making the Bada Dost i2 one of the most cost-efficient SCVs in its segment. These figures highlight the truck’s Bada Dost i2 10-year ownership cost and confirm its potential for long-term profitability.

Cabin Comfort & Features

The vehicle’s ergonomic cabin is designed for comfort, seating the driver and two passengers comfortably. The seats provide adequate support, and the steering wheel comes with tilt adjustment, ensuring a comfortable driving posture for long trips. The cabin also offers proper ventilation and a spacious layout, suitable for extended hours on the road.

Comparison: Bada Dost i2 vs Tata Ace Pro

When compared with the Tata Ace Pro, the Bada Dost i2 stands out in multiple areas. While both trucks cater to last-mile delivery, the Bada Dost i2 offers higher payload capacity (1,425 kg vs 1,000–1,200 kg for Tata Ace Pro), better suspension comfort with parabolic leaf springs, and slightly higher fuel efficiency. Its TCO per km is also competitive, making it a cost-effective option for businesses focusing on reliability and long-term operational efficiency.

Conclusion

The Ashok Leyland Bada Dost i2 is a top-tier SCV, combining efficient performance, high payload capacity, comfortable ride, and low TCO. Its fuel-efficient 1.5L engine, robust suspension, reliable brakes, and ergonomic cabin make it a versatile solution for businesses transporting a variety of goods. Backed by a 5-year warranty and an extensive service network, the Bada Dost i2 is an ideal choice for small and medium enterprises aiming to enhance profitability while ensuring reliability and safety.

Whether you are transporting e-commerce packages, FMCG products, or heavy materials, the Bada Dost i2 delivers a dependable, cost-effective, and comfortable solution for your commercial transport needs.