Tata has been present in the midsize SUV space with the Curvv, but it could never truly challenge the Hyundai Creta. After all, the Curvv is basically a stretched Nexon with similar cabin and driving traits and features a sloping roof that cramps rear-seat space. Its unconventional shape and higher price due to losing the sub-4-metre tax benefit pushed it out of contention. In short, it looks interesting but doesn’t deliver the value or practicality needed to take on the Creta.
The Sierra, however, is a completely different story. Given that the Creta has become a brand in its own right in India, it made sense for Tata to counter it with an iconic nameplate of its own. The original Sierra still holds emotional weight for many, and that heritage gives Tata an instant hook. But a nostalgic badge is never enough. The product has to be competitive on every fundamental count. The first signs from the new Sierra show that Tata finally understands what it takes to compete at the top of this segment.
Tata Sierra design
The Sierra goes for a confident, upright SUV stance. It is boxy in a way that nods to the original, but the surfacing and detailing are modern and premium. Unlike the Curvv, which leans heavily into style and coupe form, the Sierra sticks to the traditional SUV shape that most buyers actually want in this segment.
Tata Sierra cabin quality
The interior is the biggest step forward. It’s easily the highest-quality cabin Tata has ever put together. The colours, textures and overall layout feel properly upmarket. Everything you touch and see feels premium. This is not a Nexon experience stretched to fit a bigger body.
Tata Sierra features
The full feature list is not official yet, but what we have seen is impressive. There is a first-in-segment triple-screen setup, a powered tailgate, a large panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS, a 12-speaker JBL audio system and powered and ventilated front seats. It all adds up to a very modern experience.
Tata Sierra space and practicality
This was the Curvv’s weakest area, and it is where the Sierra feels most improved. There are no odd omissions like missing cup holders. The front feels airy and functional, and the rear seat is properly adult-friendly. Two six-footers can sit one behind the other and still have headroom and knee-room to spare. The backrest angle is comfortable, and the seat base feels supportive. Boot space also looks generous. It is wide, deep and square, which will make packing large suitcases simple.
Tata Sierra engine options
Although Tata has not officially confirmed the powertrains yet, our recent scoop gives a clear idea of the strategy. Tata appears to be throwing everything at the Creta. The Sierra is expected to come with three engine options, just like the Hyundai, all having similar capacities and intent.
The base option will be a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol mill meant for easy city running. Enthusiasts will get a brand-new 1.5-litre 4-cylinder direct-injection turbo-petrol that takes aim at the higher Creta variants and even the N Line. And for people who drive long distances and want a frugal option, the familiar 1.5-litre diesel from the Curvv is expected to be carried over. Matching Hyundai’s breadth of powertrains is a statement of intent from Tata.
Should the Hyundai Creta and others be worried?
Not worried yet, but definitely alert. Hyundai still has a huge edge in long-term reliability, dealership reach and brand leadership. The Creta name has so much equity that it sells even before people test drive it.
For Tata to challenge that, it has to get the basics right. Pricing will be key, and the Sierra must undercut the Creta to be seen as a credible threat. Refinement across engines, gearboxes, ride and software will be crucial, and this is an area where Tata has traditionally needed improvement. The Sierra also has to prove reliable from day one and avoid the work-in-progress perception where early customers end up dealing with niggles.
But the first signs are promising. The Sierra looks premium, feels premium and is packed with equipment that the segment values. If Tata delivers a smooth driving experience and a sharp price, Hyundai and other strong players like Maruti Suzuki Victoris and Toyota Hyryder will feel the pressure.
The Sierra will launch on November 25, 2025, and we will be driving it soon after that, so stay tuned.
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