Tata Sierra Hyperion 1.5L Hyperion TGDi Petrol Review - Worthy Seltos and Creta Rival?

There are launches, and then there are comebacks that make you sit up and take notice. The Tata Sierra is firmly in the latter camp. This isn't just another SUV rolling off the assembly line; it's the rebirth of an icon that once defined individuality on Indian roads. Back in the '90s, the Sierra was the SUV you aspired to own - bold, distinctive, and ahead of its time. Fast forward to 2025, and Tata Motors has brought it back, reimagined for a new era. The question is: does the new Sierra live up to its legendary name? Let's find out.

Design: Nostalgia Meets Modernity

The first thing you notice about the new Sierra is how unapologetically modern it looks while still tipping its hat to the original. The silhouette is unmistakable - that signature glasshouse effect is back, and it's a clever nod to the past. But this isn't a retro design exercise; it's contemporary, sleek, and globally appealing. The front fascia is sharp, the LED DRLs are crisp, and the stance is confident without being intimidating.

That said, there's a fair bit of piano black on the exterior, and while it looks great in photos, it's a magnet for fingerprints and scratches in real life. Inside, the cabin feels premium, but some hard plastics and flimsy touches on the door handles remind you that perfection is still a work in progress. And yes, the B-pillar can feel a bit intrusive, especially for those who like an airy cabin. Taller folks might also want to watch out for the boot opening height - it's not the most generous.

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Space and Comfort: Compact Yet Clever

Let's address the elephant in the room: the Sierra isn't as large as the Harrier or Safari. It's a mid-size SUV, and while that might disappoint those expecting a road-dominating beast, it's actually a smart move. The dimensions make it city-friendly without compromising too much on interior space. The seats are well-contoured, ventilated in higher trims, and the driving position is spot-on. Rear seat space is decent, though not class-leading, and the power tailgate - while a nice touch - takes its sweet time to open. Patience is a virtue here.

Tech and Features: Triple Screens and Dolby Drama

If tech is your thing, the Sierra doesn't disappoint. The higher variants get a triple-screen setup that looks straight out of a concept car. It's futuristic, functional, and frankly, a bit of a flex in this segment. Add to that ADAS, multiple drive modes, and a sound system that's more concert hall than car cabin. 

The integrated sound bar with Dolby Atmos is a game-changer - it turns every playlist into an experience. Whether you're cruising down the highway or stuck in Chandigarh traffic, the audio quality is sublime.

Engine and Performance: Hyperion Delivers

Now, let's talk about the heart of the matter - the 1.5L Hyperion TGDi petrol engine. On paper, it's impressive: 160 PS of power, a torque-rich band, and a 6-speed torque converter automatic that feels well-matched to the engine's character. In reality? It's even better. The torque delivery is linear, and the pull from low-end to high-end is addictive. Whether you're darting through city traffic or stretching its legs on the highway, the Sierra feels eager and responsive. It comes with 255 Nm torque in the range of 1750-4000 rpm.

Tata claims a record-breaking 29.9 km/l under controlled conditions at NATRAX, but let's be real - that's not what you'll see in everyday driving. In our Chandigarh city runs and highway stints, we managed around 13-14 km/l, and that's with a slightly heavy right foot. Still, for a petrol SUV of this size and performance, those numbers aren't bad.

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The suspension deserves a special mention. It's tuned beautifully - firm enough to keep things tidy in corners, yet supple enough to soak up bad roads without breaking a sweat. Sport mode adds some spice, but in bumper-to-bumper traffic, it can feel a bit too much. Stick to Normal or Eco for a smoother experience.

Things That Could Be Better

No car is perfect, and the Sierra is no exception. The extensive use of piano black inside and out is a dust and scratch magnet. Some interior plastics feel out of place in an otherwise premium cabin. The power tailgate's leisurely pace will test your patience, and the B-pillar design might make the cabin feel less airy for some. Also, while the Sierra looks great, its size might not match the intimidation factor the nameplate once commanded.

Who Should Buy It?

The Sierra isn't for everyone - and that's precisely its charm. If you're chasing nostalgia, this is your chance to relive the dream. If you want to stand out in a sea of predictable SUVs, the Sierra is your ticket. It competes with the Kia Seltos and Hyundai Creta, but it brings something they don't: emotional heft. It's a statement of individuality, a nod to heritage, and a showcase of modern engineering.

For enthusiasts, the Hyperion engine's performance and refinement will impress. For tech lovers, the triple screens and Dolby Atmos sound system are irresistible. And for those who simply want a premium, well-rounded SUV that feels different, the Sierra ticks all the right boxes.

Final Word

The Tata Sierra Hyperion isn't just a car; it's a conversation starter. It blends nostalgia with modernity, performance with practicality, and individuality with everyday usability. 

It's not perfect - but then, legends rarely are. What they do is inspire, and the Sierra does exactly that. It's a bold move by Tata Motors, and one that deserves applause.

If you're ready to escape the mediocre, the Sierra is waiting.