The midsize SUV segment in India is witnessing renewed competition with Tata Motors reintroducing the Sierra and Renault launching the new-generation Duster. Both SUVs aim to appeal to buyers looking for performance, off-road capability, and modern tech. Here’s a detailed comparison between the two.

Size and Off-Road Capability

Tata Sierra

• Built on the ARGOS platform, supports petrol, diesel, and electric powertrains

• Ground clearance: 205 mm

• Water wading: Up to 450 mm

• Approach angle: 26.5° | Ramp-over angle: 23.1° | Departure angle: 31.6°

• Turning circle: 10.6 meters

Renault Duster

• Built on the RGMB platform, with 90% India-specific parts

• Ground clearance: 212 mm

• Approach angle: 26.9° | Departure angle: 34.7°

• Roof load: Supports up to 50 kg

Verdict: The Duster offers slightly higher ground clearance and a better departure angle, making it marginally more off-road capable.

Technology, Features, and Safety

Tata Sierra

• TiDAL 2.0 electrical architecture for fast data transfer, 5G connectivity, OTA updates

• Infotainment: 12.29-inch touchscreen | Instrument cluster: 10.23-inch digital

• Safety: Six airbags standard, Level-2 ADAS with up to 22 safety features on top variants

• Comfort: Ambient lighting, cooled glove box, 60:40 split rear seats, two 65W USB-C ports

Renault Duster

• ADAS: 17-feature package

• Comfort: 6-way power driver seat, ventilated front seats, electric tailgate, electric sunroof

• Convenience: Built-in Google Assistant, 360° camera

Verdict: Both SUVs are feature-rich. Sierra focuses on advanced connectivity and infotainment, while Duster emphasizes convenience and driver-assistance features.

Engine Options and Performance

Tata Sierra

• 1.5L Revotron naturally aspirated petrol

• 1.5L TGDi Hyperion turbo petrol: 160 PS, 255 Nm torque

• 1.5L Cryojet diesel: 118 PS, 280 Nm torque

• Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 7-speed DCT, 6-speed torque converter

Renault Duster

• TCe 160 turbo petrol: 163 PS, 280 Nm torque, 6-speed DCT

• Hybrid E-Tech 160: Combines 1.8L petrol engine, 1.4 kWh battery, 2 motors, 8-speed DHT (claimed 80% city driving in electric mode)

• TCe 100 petrol: 100 PS, 160 Nm, 6-speed manual

Verdict:

• For raw petrol performance, Duster TCe 160 (163 PS) slightly edges out Sierra TGDi (160 PS) in power, but torque is comparable.

• Diesel lovers may prefer the Sierra Cryojet for its 280 Nm torque.

• The Duster hybrid is unique for city-driving efficiency, though full power specs aren’t revealed yet.