The Indian mid-size SUV segment is heating up rapidly, with new launches intensifying competition for the long-time segment leader, the Hyundai Creta. Tata Motors has revived its iconic Sierra nameplate, while Kia India has introduced the new-generation Seltos with major updates. Buyers are now keen to know which of these two SUVs offers better design, space, features, and performance.
Tata Sierra vs Kia Seltos: Design Difference
The new Tata Sierra carries forward its iconic identity with a modern touch. The signature B-pillar design instantly recalls the original Sierra, while LED lighting at the front and rear adds a contemporary feel. Connected LED tail lamps, Sierra badging, and a gloss-black bumper give the rear a clean, premium look. The SUV’s boxy and muscular stance is enhanced by flush door handles, up to 19-inch alloy wheels, a clamshell tailgate, and chunky skid plates, making it one of the most striking SUVs in its class.
The new-generation Kia Seltos, on the other hand, has undergone a complete design transformation. It now looks more muscular and premium than before. The vertical digital Tiger Nose grille gives it an aggressive front profile, complemented by star-map LED lighting, LED DRLs, and square-shaped projector headlamps. At the rear, inverted L-shaped connected LED tail lamps, roof rails, a rear spoiler, and redesigned bumpers with skid plates add to its road presence.
Dimensions and Road Presence Compared
In terms of size, the Tata Sierra dominates most parameters except length. It measures 4,340 mm in length, 1,841 mm in width, and 1,715 mm in height, with a long 2,730 mm wheelbase and a ground clearance of 205 mm. The Sierra also offers a class-leading 622-litre boot, giving it a strong advantage for long journeys.
The new Kia Seltos is longer at 4,460 mm and wider than before at 1,830 mm. Its height stands at 1,635 mm, with a wheelbase of 2,690 mm and ground clearance of 190 mm. Boot space has increased to 447 litres, improving practicality over the previous model.
Feature-Loaded Interiors
Tata Sierra positions itself as one of the most advanced SUVs in the segment. It offers a premium cabin with three large screens, a panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats with under-thigh support and memory function, wireless charging, smartphone connectivity, a 12-speaker JBL sound system with Dolby Atmos, iRA connected car technology, Level 2+ ADAS, six airbags, a 360-degree camera, ESC, and TPMS.
Kia has also packed the new Seltos with features. Highlights include a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat with relaxation mode, ventilated front seats, a modern dashboard layout, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a digital instrument cluster, a separate climate control screen, front and rear dash cameras, panoramic sunroof, Level 2 ADAS, 360-degree camera, 12 parking sensors, and multiple airbags.
Engine Options and Performance
The Tata Sierra offers three engine options. These include a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 106 PS and 145 Nm, a 1.5-litre Hyperion turbo-petrol delivering 160 PS and 255 Nm, and a 1.5-litre Kryotec diesel engine producing 118 PS and 280 Nm. Available transmissions include Manual, iVT, iMT, DCT, and Torque Converter Automatic.
The Kia Seltos comes with a Level 2+ ADAS system, which offers more features than the Level 2 ADAS in the Tata Sierra.
Price and Booking Details
The Tata Sierra is priced starts at Rs 11.49 lakh while the price of the top-end variant of the is still awaited. Kia India has opened bookings for the new-generation Seltos, with prices set to be announced on January 2, 2026.
With bold styling, larger dimensions, advanced features, and multiple powertrain options, both SUVs bring strong value propositions. The final choice will depend on whether buyers prefer Tata’s rugged, feature-rich approach or Kia’s premium, tech-forward appeal.
