The launch of the Sierra back in 1991 marked Tata Motors’ entry into the passenger vehicle segment.
Tata Motors has finally taken the wraps off the all-new Sierra. The debut marks the second run for the Sierra nameplate, and the official launch is scheduled for November 25. While only the ICE version has been revealed as of now, the Sierra EV will break cover in January 2026. Let’s look at how the Sierra became an icon in the passenger vehicle segment. Tata Sierra Unveiled: All Details.
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Tata Motors’ First Passenger Vehicle
The history of Sierra dates back to the 1980s, when Tata Motors was only operating in the commercial vehicle segment. Under the leadership of the Late Mr. Ratan Tata, the homegrown carmaker aimed to create an indigenous SUV that could handle the country’s rugged terrains and poor road infrastructure. Taking inspiration from the Telcoline, a commercial pickup truck launched in 1988, the X2 platform was chosen as the base for the Sierra.
Tata Sierra Became A Reality
The Tata Sierra was officially launched on January 18, 1991, at the Auto Expo held in Delhi. It became India’s first home-grown SUV, marking Tata’s foray into the passenger car segment. With a price tag of around Rs. 5 lakh, it became one of the most expensive passenger cars in its segment.
The SUV was based on a ladder-frame chassis with side members and crossbars, giving it exceptional off-road capability. It has a wheelbase of 2,400 mm with a 3-door layout and RWD (rear-wheel-drive) as standard. The Sierra also featured an optional four-wheel-drive (4WD) system with an electrically controlled transfer case and self-locking rear differential. It measured 4,400 mm long, 1,730 mm wide, and 1,770 mm tall, making it compact yet capable for off-roading.
First Generation Tata Sierra (1991-1997)
The Sierra was powered by a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated IDI diesel engine (code 483 DL) producing 63 bhp and around 120 Nm of torque, mated to a five-speed G76 manual gearbox. The suspension setup was a straight lift-off from the Telcoline, a front double-wishbone setup and a rigid rear axle with coil springs. Tata Motors sold over 1,000 units of the Sierra within the first year, which was quite a commendable number at that time.
Second Generation Tata Sierra (1997–2003)
Tata introduced the second-generation Sierra in 1997. It was essentially a facelifted version based on the same platform. The standout upgrade was the turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel (483 DLTC), delivering 90 hp and around 190 Nm. This engine was Euro 2 compliant. It was applauded for the significant boost in the specs, which improved highway performance and off-road torque of the Sierra.
This is the time when the popularity of the Sierra peaked in India. It also featured in Bollywood movies and became a status symbol.
The Design Of The Sierra
The design was one of the top pull factors for the Sierra in the 1990s. The compact and upright stance, boxy proportions and the large side glass area gave it a modern and distinctive appeal. This is what Tata Motors is attempting to carry forward with the new Sierra.
The “cheese grater” front grille, large fixed panoramic rear windows and a tailgate-mounted spare wheel lent the Sierra a character which is still remembered by enthusiasts. It was also praised for its spacious four-seater cabin layout, with features like power windows, air conditioning, an adjustable steering wheel, and a tachometer, which were considered a luxury at that time.
With the facelift in 1997, the Sierra received a revised bonnet, larger integrated headlamps with amber indicators, a simplified grille, flared wheel arches, and two-tone tail lamps. The interiors gained a four-spoke steering wheel along with better seats. The second-gen model has the option of alloy wheels.
Everything Wasn’t Good With The Sierra
The first-gen model of the Sierra struggled with its unrefined engine and lacklustre power figures. Moreover, build quality issues, like rust-prone bodies and unreliable electronics, were also reported at that time.
Original Tata Sierra Discontinued
Over the years, the Sierra lost its appeal, which boiled down to its relatively higher price tag, dated three-door design, and low demand. In addition to this, Tata Motors shifted its focus to mass-market models like the Indica and Sumo, which eventually led to its discontinuation in 2003.
New-Gen Tata Sierra Unveiled: Everything We Know
The all-new Sierra will be launched in its ICE guise on November 25, while the EV version is expected to debut in January 2026. It will be based on a monocoque chassis, and the conventionally powered versions will have a front-wheel-drive configuration. Unlike the original Sierra, the new model will sport a proper 5-door design, along with missing out on a tailgate-mounted spare wheel. However, the signature long glass area on the sides will be retained. The interiors will get a 3 screen layout, along with a feature-loaded cabin. Under the hood, the 1.5-litre diesel and the new 1.5-litre tGDi petrol engines will power the SUV.
The Sierra EV, on the other hand, is expected to get a RWD configuration, and Tata Motors could also offer an AWD version, much like the Harrier. It will likely be available in two battery pack options, i.e. 55 kWh and 65 kWh; however, nothing can be confirmed as of now.
Tata Sierra Unveiled: OPAV OPINION
Tata Motors is banking on the ‘Sierra’ nameplate for its upcoming SUV. It will be positioned in the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment, rivalling the likes of Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Victoris, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder and Honda Elevate, amongst others. While it carries a strong legacy, a lot will depend on the pricing and overall package.