The Tata Sierra is back, only this time, it isn’t just cashing in on nostalgia. With a starting price of ₹11.49 lakh (ex-showroom), the new Sierra arrives as a modern, feature-rich SUV that aims to stand out in a segment crowded with familiar faces. After spending time behind the wheel of both petrol and diesel versions, here are three things that genuinely impressed us, and two that didn’t.
Three Things We Liked
1. A Design That Actually Turns Heads
The Sierra’s design feels like a breath of fresh air. Tata has managed to blend the boxy charm of the classic Sierra with a cleaner, futuristic look. The connected LED DRLs, the ultra-slim headlamps and the massive 19-inch alloys make it look like nothing else in its class.
And those bright colours, especially Andaman Adventure yellow and Bengal Rouge red, pull in attention like a magnet. You can feel the old Sierra DNA in the silhouette, even though the design is completely new.
(Also read: Tata Sierra First Drive Review: A Bold Yet Friendly Brute)
2. The Petrol Engine Is Proper Fun
Tata’s new 1.5-litre Hyperion turbo-petrol is the surprise package here. It feels eager, quick on its feet, and has the kind of pull that brings a smile every time you floor it. The 0–100 km/h sprint in about 10 seconds is impressive for an SUV this size.
{{/usCountry}}Tata’s new 1.5-litre Hyperion turbo-petrol is the surprise package here. It feels eager, quick on its feet, and has the kind of pull that brings a smile every time you floor it. The 0–100 km/h sprint in about 10 seconds is impressive for an SUV this size.
{{/usCountry}}The diesel continues to be smooth and refined, and the new Aisin 6-speed automatic won’t leave you frustrated in traffic. But if you enjoy driving, the petrol is the one that stands out.
3. A Cabin That Feels Premium
Step inside and the Sierra instantly feels grown-up. The triple-tone interior, the massive sunroof and the clever use of space all combine to make it a genuinely pleasant place to be.
The triple-screen setup, a passenger display, a large infotainment screen and a digital cluster, adds a touch of modern luxury you usually see in higher segments. Kids can play games on the passenger screen, the 12-speaker Dolby audio sounds brilliant, and the personalisation features make the car feel almost tailored to you. NVH levels are well-controlled, too. Even the diesel barely makes its presence felt inside the cabin.
(Also read: Tata Sierra SUV Pure and Adventure pricing announced; Accomplished trims remain awaited)
Two Things We Didn’t Like
1. Too Much Piano Black for an SUV
The generous use of piano-black cladding on the sides and wheel arches may look stylish in photos, but it’s just not practical. These areas scratch easily and will likely lose their shine quickly, especially on a vehicle meant to tackle rough patches.
2. Some Odd Storage Decisions
The Sierra has plenty of smart storage spaces, but the armrest cubby is oddly shaped, too deep, too narrow and not the most useful. The boot has a slight loading lip as well, which isn't a major issue but can get in the way when handling bigger bags. Additionally, there is very little space in the front seats to hold your phones securely.
Verdict
The new Tata Sierra feels like a bold step forward, not just a nostalgic comeback. It looks distinctive, drives well, especially in petrol form, and packs in tech that genuinely enhances the experience. Yes, there are a couple of quirks, but nothing that overshadows the SUV’s overall appeal. For anyone who wants an SUV with real character and presence, the Sierra makes a strong case for itself.