[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]When Tata brings back one of its most nostalgic badges, it is bound to draw attention. The Sierra is a nameplate that holds a special place in Tata Motors’ history, long before SUVs became the default choice among Indian buyers. The original Sierra stood apart as a bold lifestyle statement with its unique three-door layout, glasshouse, and a road presence that made it instantly recognisable, unlike any other car on the road at that time. Its return, therefore, is not just another product launch but a carefully thought-out brand moment for Tata Motors.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]While the original Sierra was an emotional outlier in a largely conservative market, the new Sierra arrives at a time when Indian buyers are already comfortable spending serious money on SUVs. What Tata has done differently this time is to build the Sierra not just as a design statement, but as a technology-rich, comfort-focused, and safety-forward mid-size SUV that fits squarely into modern buying expectations.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]I spent a few hours behind the wheel of the new Tata Sierra, driving both petrol and diesel powertrains, and here’s how it performs in today’s increasingly crowded mid-size SUV segment. That said, this is a first drive review, and what follows are early impressions based on limited time behind the wheel.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Exterior Design & Road Presence
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]From the moment you spot it, the Sierra demands attention. The silhouette immediately hints at the OG Sierra, especially with the rear large glass area, blacked-out B-pillar, and upright stance, while the rest of the design feels thoroughly contemporary. The darkened C-pillar as well cleverly evokes the iconic wraparound rear glass effect of the OG Sierra. Of course, current safety regulations and the need for a practical five-door layout meant the original design could not be replicated exactly. Yet, this modern interpretation looks thoughtful.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Up front, the design is bold without trying to be aggressive. Sleek lighting elements, a clean grille treatment, and well-balanced proportions give it a confident road presence. The light saber LED DRLs and connected tail lamps stretch seamlessly across the width, while welcome & goodbye animations add a subtle touch of premium flair. Its stance is confident rather than bulky, complemented by large alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 19 inch depending on the variant.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]On the road, the Sierra’s presence is unmistakable. Whether navigating city traffic or cruising on the highway, it turns heads at every corner. Its upright stance, rear design, and confident proportions make it easy to spot on the road, while the modern design details like flush door handles ensure it feels modern rather than retro.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Colour Palette
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]On the outside, the Sierra gets an all-new colour palette that helps it stand out. Buyers can choose from yellow, red, unique earthy shade, and coorg cloud, alongside more understated options like pristine white and pure grey. Inside, the top variants feature a beige-and-white leatherette upholstery, adding to the cabin’s premium feel.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Inside the Sierra
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Step inside, and the cabin continues that modern theme. The soft touch dashboard design is clean and gives a sense of width but what will grab your attention is the triple screen layout. This includes a 12.3-inch central touchscreen, a 12.3-inch passenger display, and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. While a three-screen setup may sound excessive on paper, Tata’s execution feels well-integrated rather than distracting. The infotainment system is responsive and easy to use, though a deeper evaluation would need longer ownership. The passenger display also adds a layer of in-cabin entertainment, allowing occupants to stream videos, watch YouTube videos, or play games. Important to note that the lower variants will come with conventional two screen layout only.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The leatherette-stitched surfaces and material quality, at least in the top variants driven, feel premium and in line with what buyers expect in this segment. However, the highlight remains the airy feel of the cabin, supported by large windows and good all-round visibility, something that’s becoming rare in modern SUVs. The largest panoramic sunroof (1525 mm x 925 mm) further amplifies this sense of openness, which floods the cabin with natural light.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Practicality is equally strong, with a 622-litre boot that expands to 1,257 litre when the rear seats are folded. The wide opening, low loading lip, and square-shaped boot makes it useful for families, road trips, and long-term ownership.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Platform & Cabin Comfort
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The Sierra now sits on Tata Motors’ all-new ARGOS architecture (All-Terrain Ready, Omni-Energy and Geometry Scalable), a platform developed to support multiple powertrains, advanced electronics, future All Wheel Drive (AWD) capability and scalable body styles. This immediately sets the Sierra apart from many rivals in the segment. The Sierra will also be offered in AWD and electric variants soon.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]In terms of size, the Sierra’s 2730 mm wheelbase, the longest in its segment, plays a key role in defining its character. The result is a genuinely spacious cabin, rather than merely adequate. With 973 mm of second-row legroom, and best-in-segment shoulder room, the Sierra prioritises passenger comfort in a way that few mid-size SUVs currently do.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Rear-seat comfort is another highlight. There’s generous legroom, a relaxed seating angle, and enough space to keep passengers comfortable on longer journeys, making the Sierra feel genuinely family-friendly. Here you also get three adjustable headrests, window sunshades and one foldable armrest with cupholders.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Importantly, Tata has not tried to turn the Sierra into a three-row SUV. Instead, it positions the Sierra as a premium five-seater that offers space and comfort, comparable to larger luxury SUVs. It’s a deliberate approach that prioritises roominess and comfort over squeezing in an extra row.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]From a first-drive perspective, the Sierra scores well on ergonomics. The driving position is comfortable, controls fall easily to hand, and outward visibility is a clear strength.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Tech & Features
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]When it comes to everyday convenience, the Sierra comes well equipped. Key features include ventilated front seats, rear AC vents, dual-zone automatic climate control, rain-sensing wipers, a gesture-controlled powered tailgate, an 8-way adjustable sunvisor and a 6-way powered driver seat with memory. However, the co-passenger seat remains manually adjustable, though it does get a manual Boss mode for added rear-seat comfort.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Technology is another area where the Sierra pushes boundaries. A 360-degree camera with 4Sight blind-spot monitoring makes tight manoeuvres easier and safer. At the heart of the system is the Snapdragon Auto 5G SA 522 chipset, an industry-first, enabling quick responses and over-the-air updates. The iRA connected car platform, offering 75 connected features, brings 5G connectivity to the ICE segment for the first time in India, while built-in Mappls navigation continues to work even in offline conditions.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]One standout feature in this segment is the night saber Bi-LED booster headlamps, designed to intelligently extend their reach at higher speeds and ensure the road ahead is well illuminated when it matters most. While night driving was not part of this first drive, it is a feature that sets the Sierra apart from its mid-size SUV rivals and warrants closer evaluation.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Rounding things off is the Theatre Pro entertainment system, powered by Dolby Atmos and a 12-speaker JBL Black setup, including an integrated SonicShaft soundbar into the dashboard. With access to over 30 apps via the Arcade Suite, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Sierra’s cabin feels closer to a premium lounge than a conventional SUV.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Overall, the Sierra’s feature set feels thoughtfully curated, which should bode well for everyday usability and long-term ownership.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Safety Features
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Tata’s strong focus on safety is central to the Sierra’s positioning. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, connected car tech, and a long list of electronic aids form a key part of the package, though, how seamlessly some of these features work in everyday conditions will need long-term evaluation.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Safety is where the Sierra makes its strongest statement. It comes with six airbags as standard, all-disc brakes, and ESP with 20 functions. This is complemented by a comprehensive L2+ ADAS suite with 22 features, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and intelligent speed assist, placing the Sierra among the most safety-focused SUVs in its segment.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]What truly stands out is Tata’s emphasis on real-world safety validation. The Sierra has undergone a 50 km/h offset head-on crash test, simulating a family-car collision using adult and child dummies. The results underline strong cabin integrity, effective restraint systems, and robust post-crash safety measures such as automatic door unlocking and zero fuel leakage.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Engine & Transmission Options
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The Tata Sierra is offered with both petrol and diesel powertrains, catering to different driving preferences. The 1.5L 4-cylinder naturally aspirated Revotron petrol produces 106 PS at 6,000 rpm and 145 Nm of torque at 2,100 rpm, paired with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCA automatic. This engine is ideal for buyers upgrading from smaller SUVs, prioritising smooth, fuss-free driving over outright performance.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]For those seeking more excitement, the 1.5L 4-cylinder Hyperion TGDi turbo petrol delivers 160 PS at 5,000 rpm and 255 Nm between 1,750–4,000 rpm, mated to a 6-speed automatic. The Hyperion engine is the headline-grabber, featuring 350-bar direct injection, a variable geometry turbo, dual variable cam timing, and an intelligent lubrication system. On the road, it offers strong mid-range punch and impressive refinement, making everyday driving both effortless and engaging. The 1.5L 4-cylinder Kryojet CRDi diesel produces 118 PS at 4,000 rpm and 260 Nm (manual) / 280 Nm (automatic) between 1,500–2,750 rpm, available with both 6-speed manual and automatic options.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]I had the chance to drive the turbo petrol and diesel powertrains, and here’s how they perform on the road.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Driving the Sierra Turbo Petrol
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The turbo petrol engine on the Sierra is clearly tuned with refinement in mind. In city conditions, it feels smooth, easy to drive, and largely stress-free. Instant throttle responses are predictable, and the engine remains quiet under light loads.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]On open roads, the turbo-petrol engine delivers adequate performance for most real-world situations. It does not feel sporty but prioritises linear acceleration and calm cruising. Overtakes require a bit of planning, but once up to speed, the Sierra settles into a relaxed rhythm.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The 6-speed automatic gearbox complements this character well. It shifts smoothly and unobtrusively, especially in city traffic, where gear changes are barely noticeable. This makes stop-and-go driving more comfortable and fuss-free.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]For buyers who spend most of their time in urban environments, with occasional highway runs, the petrol Sierra feels well-suited and should appeal to a wider audience.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Driving the Sierra Diesel
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The diesel, on the other hand, is all about torque. Its low-end pull makes it ideal for highway cruising and hilly terrain, and the engine feels planted even under load. There is a slight vibration at idle, but once on the move, it settles into a composed hum. Noise levels are well controlled for a diesel, though under hard acceleration you are aware of the engine working. That said, it never feels intrusive, and overall refinement levels are better than what many would expect.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The automatic gearbox paired to diesel engine works smoothly with precise shifts that complement the engine’s strong torque curve. Overall, long-distance driving feels effortless, and the Sierra feels stable even at higher speeds. If you enjoy long road trips or value relaxed highway performance, the diesel Sierra is likely to be the more appealing option.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Ride & Handling: Sierra’s Real Strength
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Ride quality emerged as one of the Sierra’s strongest points from this short drive. The Superglide Suspension with Frequency Dependent Damping (FDD) suspension handles potholes and rough patches with composure, absorbing bumps without unsettling the cabin. At higher speeds, the Sierra feels stable and reassuring. Between the two powertrains, the cabin feel is identical, though the diesel’s slightly higher NVH is noticeable at idle.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The tilt and telescopic steering is tuned more for ease of use than outright engagement. It is light and effortless in city traffic, while remaining predictable and stable at highway speeds. While enthusiastic drivers may wish for more feedback, this setup suits the Sierra’s comfort-focused character well. Add to this the commanding driving position, with a 342 mm driver H-point and 1344 mm eye point, the Sierra delivers a proper SUV-like driving experience.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Even after a few hours behind the wheel, fatigue levels remained low, which is a positive sign for long-distance driving. Features like the thigh support extender on the front seats add to the overall comfort.
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[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The Sierra also offers three terrain modes as Normal, Wet, and Rough, along with two drive modes as Sport and Normal, allowing the driver to adjust the vehicle’s responses based on road and driving conditions. In terms of practicality, the Sierra comes with a 50-litre fuel tank. Real-world fuel efficiency figures, however, remain to be evaluated later.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Price
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Engine[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Transmission[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Smart+[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Pure[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Pure+[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Adventure[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Adventure+[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Accomplished[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Accomplished+[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]1.5L Revotron Petrol[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]MT[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]11.49[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]12.99[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]14.49[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]15.29[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]15.99[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]17.99[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]–[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]1.5L Revotron Petrol[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]DCA[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]–[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]14.49[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]15.99[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]16.79[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]–[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]–[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]–[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]1.5L TGDi Hyperion Petrol[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]AT[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]–[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]–[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]–[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]17.99[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]19.99[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]20.99[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]–[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]1.5L Kryojet Diesel[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]MT[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]12.99[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]14.49[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]15.99[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]16.49[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]17.19[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]18.99[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]20.29[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]1.5L Kryojet Diesel[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]AT[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]–[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]15.99[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]17.49[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]–[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]18.49[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]19.99[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]21.29[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Tata Rewrites One of Its Most Nostalgic Stories
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The new Tata Sierra is a carefully judged comeback that feels relevant to today’s market rather than driven by nostalgia alone. It positions itself as a lifestyle-oriented alternative to the Curvv & Harrier within Tata’s portfolio, while remaining more practical and family-friendly than coupe-style SUVs.
 [color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]The new Sierra is for those who want attention on the road while enjoying a truly spacious cabin, strong performance, and almost every possible feature and technology. Ride quality is a clear highlight, making the Sierra well suited for everyday use as well as extended road trips.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]There are, of course, questions that only time will answer like real-world fuel efficiency, the long-term usability of some tech features, and variant-wise value will need closer scrutiny. That said, based on this first drive, the Sierra positions itself as a premium five-seater in its segment - an SUV that is hard to ignore.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Reasons to Choose the Tata Sierra
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]• Excellent ride quality
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]• Strong road presence & distinctive design
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]• Comfortable, airy cabin with good visibility
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]• Diesel engine’s relaxed and confident nature
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Things to Keep in Mind
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]• Full tech experience is limited to higher trims
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]• Some features will need real-world testing to judge usability |
