The recently updated Skoda Kushaq and the Tata Sierra are two of the newest models in the over-crowded midsize SUV segment. In just a couple of months’ time, the new Sierra has already established a firm footing in the segment with its head-turning design, new-age features and wide lineup of powertrain options. The Kushaq, meanwhile, gets new features and a more contemporary design with this facelift, but does it have enough to take on the what is arguably the hottest nameplate in the segment? Here, we compare both SUVs to paper to see which one stands out in terms size, specs and also features.
Skoda Kushaq vs Tata Sierra: dimensions
|
|
Skoda Kushaq* |
Tata Sierra |
|
Length |
4225mm |
4340mm |
|
Width |
1760mm |
1841mm |
|
Height |
1612mm |
1715mm |
|
Wheelbase |
2651mm |
2730mm |
|
Ground Clearance |
188mm |
205mm |
|
Wheel size |
16-17-inches |
17-19-inches |
|
Boot space |
491-litres |
622-litres |
*Pre-facelift Kushaq dimensions, except for boot space
Skoda hasn’t officially revealed the exact dimensions of the facelifted Kushaq, but with no major sheet metal changes, it is safe to assume that overall dimensions will be largely similar to the outgoing model. And that means the Sierra trumps the Kushaq is every regard, lending it far greater road presence than the latter. It also has a much higher ground clearance, much larger wheels and more room on the inside for both passengers and cargo. Size was never one of the Kushaq’s strengths, and that remains true with the facelifted model. In fact, it has always been one of the smaller offerings in the segment.
Skoda Kushaq vs Tata Sierra: engines and specs
|
|
Skoda Kushaq |
Tata Sierra |
|
Engine type |
3-cyls turbo, 4-cyls turbo |
4-cyls NA, 4-cyls turbo |
|
Displacement |
999cc, 1498cc |
1498cc, 1498cc |
|
Power |
115hp, 150hp |
106hp, 160hp |
|
Torque |
178Nm, 250Nm |
145Nm, 255Nm |
|
MT Gearbox |
6-speed MT, NA |
6-speed MT, NA |
|
AT gearbox |
8-speed AT, 7-speed DCT |
7-speed DCT, 6-speed AT |
Both the Kushaq and Sierra come with two petrol engine options, but the entry-level engine on the Kushaq is a 3-cylinder, turbo-charged unit, while the one on the Sierra is a 4-cylinder naturally aspirated engine. In terms of output though, it’s the Kushaq that has the upper hand with 9hp and 33Nm more. The automatic gearbox choices are also very different, with the Kushaq offering an 8-speed torque converter while the Sierra gets a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox; a 6-speed manual is standard on both.
Moving over to their higher spec engines, the Kushaq and Sierra are matched in terms of displacement and cylinder count, but the Sierra edges ahead with 10hp and 5Nm more. Interestingly, with this engine, the AT gearbox options are reversed, with the Kushaq getting a DCT and the Sierra getting a torque converter. Both SUVs completely miss out on a manual gearbox option with the larger engine.
Tata Sierra additionally gets a diesel engine
It’s worth noting that the Sierra is also additionally available with a 1.5-litre diesel engine option, which is completely missing on the Kushaq. This engine produces 118hp and 260Nm (280NM with AT gearbox), and is offered with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic. There aren’t offerings in this segment with a diesel engine option, so that’s unique to the Sierra. Interestingly, it is the diesel variants of the Sierra that has amassed a majority of the bookings for the midsize SUV.
Skoda Kushaq vs Tata Sierra: features
The updated Kushaq address few of the feature omissions on the pre-facelift model with additions like a panoramic sunroof, a larger and better digital instrument cluster, AI assistance, improved climate control and even a segment-only massage function for the rear seat backrest.
However, it really can’t quite match the Sierra in this regard, which has taken the features race to a different level with things like a triple-screen setup with a dedicated display for the front passenger, a JBL-branded audio system with Dolby Atmos, augmented-reality head-up display, ambient lighting, drive and terrain modes, Level 2 ADAS, a ‘Boss’ mode for the front passenger seat, a powered tailgate, and a lot more.
Skoda Kushaq vs Tata Sierra: price
|
Price |
Skoda Kushaq |
Tata Sierra |
|
Petrol price range |
TBA |
Rs 11.49 lakh – Rs 20.99 lakh |
|
Diesel price range |
– |
Rs 12.99 lakh – Rs 21.29 lakh |
Skoda is yet to announce prices for the Kushaq, but the Sierra petrol range is priced between Rs 11.49 lakh and Rs 20.99 lakh, while the diesel range is priced between Rs 12.99 lakh and Rs 21.29 lakh. The Sierra’s prices are towards the more expensive side of the midsize SUV segment, and the Skoda Kushaq can be expected to undercut it.