I own a 4th-generation Honda City, which is a very comfortable car. I am now looking to buy an SUV within a budget of Rs 18 to 21 lakh. I am interested in the Tata Harrier and Sierra, but I am concerned about Tata’s service issues. Should I wait for the new Kia and Duster? My monthly usage is around 1,500km. Should I go for petrol or diesel?

Asked by: Vamshi

If your usage is as high as 1500km per month, you should definitely opt for a diesel SUV. That, unfortunately, rules out the new Renault Duster, as while promising the same robust feel with a more upmarket interior compared to the previous version, it will only be available with a petrol engine.

Yes, Tata Motors' service has historically been a cause for concern with owners in certain cities and at certain outlets, but Tata has stated that this year it has taken action to streamline its internal processes and clear bottlenecks in its service. One can hope, then, that by the time deliveries of the Tata Sierra begin, things will have improved. Do note that you will only get a low-spec variant of the Sierra diesel in your budget.

The new Kia Seltos, which will be revealed on December 10 and launched in early 2026, is definitely worth waiting for. It will not only be larger and more spacious than the current model, but it will also gain many new features. While the current model's petrol and diesel engines are expected to continue, hybrid versions are also expected to join the range further down the line.

Tata Sierra

Tata Sierra

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Autocar India Team

Dec 09, 2025

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Asked by: Malhar Inamdar I am quite impressed with the new Sierra, but am confused about the variant and engine options. My annual running may not exceed 7,000km, as I do not stay in India, and my family will hardly use such a big car. However, whenever I visit India (once a quarter), I would like to take the car out on road drives and enjoy a pleasant driving experience. I am currently considering the Accomplished or Accomplished+1.5 Turbo Hyperion AT. Could you please advise if this is a good choice based on the details I have shared? Given your low running, yes, a petrol Tata Sierra would make perfect sense. We have yet to drive the naturally aspirated petrol; however, given that you do take pleasure in driving, the 1.5 L turbo engine would be just right for you.The unit is refined and delivers power in a strong and linear fashion. To know more, you can check our full review, which is live now on our website.

Autocar India Team

Dec 09, 2025

Asked by: Manu I am planning to buy a new car within a budget of Rs 15 to 20 lakh. My daily drive is around 10km, with two trips of about 80km each month, and two or three long drives in a year. Normally, I travel alone, but on long trips, I travel with a family of four adults. I am confused about the transmission and powertrain choices: EV vs petrol vs hybrid. I have shortlisted the Curvv, Clavis, and Sierra. Please suggest. Given your very low daily and monthly driving usage, an electric car sounds like it would make the most sense, but on your 2-3 long drives, the range restriction might prove an inconvenience. Moreover, given your limited usage, the extra purchase cost of the EV may not be justified, and all the EVs you have shortlisted are either at the very edge of your budget or above it. Thus, a frugal, low-maintenance petrol car or a hybrid might make more sense for you.Amongst the cars you have mentioned, the Tata Sierra petrol seems like a good bet - it's more spacious than the Curvv, and comfier than the Kia Carens Clavis. However, you should consider a hybrid, like the Maruti Suzuki Victoris, of which you can get the mid-range ZXi variant in your budget of Rs 20 lakh.

Autocar India Team

Dec 09, 2025

Asked by: Saurabh Sharm Sir, I recently sold my 2015 4WD CRDe Thar due to restrictions in NCR. I am a birder and an off-roader, and my wife shares the same passion. I am recently retired and am now looking for a 4WD off-road-capable vehicle in the price range of Rs 20 lakh. The Sierra was a letdown, as no AWD or 4WD is offered currently. Given your passion for adventure, off-roading and birding, your best bet is to stick with Mahindra and get the new Thar. Whether the Thar 3 Door or the Roxx, you get a wide range of smooth and powerful engines and gearboxes of your choosing, and exceptional off-roading ability.What's more, the new Thars are far more comfortable, luxurious and easy to live with, with loads of creature comforts, making them usable every day - especially the Thar Roxx, which is also much more spacious than the old Thar.

Autocar India Team

Dec 09, 2025

Asked by: Srikanth I have been driving a Creta petrol (70,000km), mostly on highways (85:15). I am now thinking of an upgrade, and my mind is moving towards the Sierra (turbo petrol) or the Harrier (petrol). I am looking for a more performance-oriented automatic transmission vehicle, given that I have moved to Bengaluru for good. Should I go for either of these, or should I consider a used luxury SUV? If yes, which would be the best option? Tata's new 1.5-litre turbo-petrol is smooth, refined and deceptively quick. And if you're someone who likes a linear power delivery, you're likely to love the Tata Sierra for the way it performs. Yes, its engine isn't high revving, still it builds speeds rapidly, and has plenty of pulling power to make quick overtakes.Alternatively, you could look at the Mahindra XUV700 petrol too, which is another strong performer.

Autocar India Team

Dec 09, 2025

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