autocar-logo
Delhi
SM

Sylvester Mathew

1d

I have been driving a 2012 Ford EcoSport diesel with a manual transmission, and I am quite impressed with its performance. Since the fitness certificate (FC) renewal is due soon, I am planning to upgrade. I am specifically looking for a diesel manual SUV and have shortlisted the Tata Sierra and Tata Harrier. However, I am inclined towards the Harrier mainly for two reasons: Build quality The Fiat-sourced diesel engine That said, the Sierra appeals to me because of its design and features. I am comfortable with the Pure+ variant, but I am not convinced that a sunroof should be mandatory on higher variants. Could you please suggest which of these two would be the better option? Also, if there are any other alternatives, please let me know. My main priorities are build quality and ride comfort.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
3m

Given what you're looking for in your SUV, the Tata Sierra makes more sense than the Harrier for you. It will feel like a considerable upgrade from your Ford EcoSport Diesel MT, most notably in size and features. And yes, as you mentioned, its standout design is really one of its biggest selling points. 

The Harrier has a much stronger engine, though build quality isn't too far off, but the premium Tata Motors is asking over the Sierra, spec for spec, doesn't feel worth it when the latter is such a good package. The sunroof, unfortunately, has become an inescapable feature in modern cars, especially in these segments, and it's something that you'll just have to accept and not use if you want the rest of the features as well. 

Tata is known to update its models regularly and add new trim levels, and maybe it will introduce more variants that have the rest of the features minus the sunroof. All things considered, the Sierra represents far better value than the Harrier.

Tata Sierra

Tata Sierra

Was this helpful? Ask a follow-up

Got a suggestion for Sylvester?

Add a Comment

Related questions you may find helpful

PO

pooja

3d

I am planning to buy a new petrol car with a manual gearbox. My budget is around ₹13 lakh. My usage will be 70% city and 30% highway. Could you please suggest SUV options within this budget?

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
1d

With a daily running of around 50 to 60 km, a diesel automatic makes good sense as your monthly usage will easily justify the better fuel efficiency and relaxed nature of a diesel engine.Between the two options, the Kia Seltos diesel automatic is the better choice overall. The diesel engine is refined, and the 6-speed torque converter automatic is smooth and well-suited for normal city traffic as well as highway drives.The Tata Sierra is also a strong Midsize SUV with more cabin space. But its diesel engine is noticeably noisier and less refined than the Hyundai-Kia diesel. It is also over a lakh more expensive in comparable automatic variants.For your usage and preference for an automatic, the Seltos diesel automatic is the more balanced and sensible option thanks to its refinement, smooth gearbox and lower price.

VehicleKia Seltos
VehicleTata Sierra
NA

Nano

6d

I am confused between the Mahindra XUV 7XO AX5 and Mahindra XUV 7XO AX7 variants, as I prefer practicality over extra features. Alternatively, should I consider waiting for the Tata Sierra?

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
2d

If you don't mind the additional spend, we'd recommend the Mahindra XUV 7XO in AX7 trim. Elements like its larger 18-inch alloy wheels and leatherette upholstery add greatly to the look and feel of things. While auto climate control, a 540-degree camera and front parking sensors are features you will appreciate every day. The Tata Sierra is not a like-for-like alternative to the Mahindra 7XO. The 7XO is larger, more powerful and also offers three rows of seating.Further, the 7XO is slightly pricier, too. Within Tata's range, the Tata Safari is an alternative to the 7XO.

VehicleMahindra XUV 7XO
VehicleTata Sierra
VehicleTata Safari
JI

Jithin

2d

I am looking to buy my first car. I will mainly use it for travel between my hometown Kochi and Bangalore, while the rest of the driving will be frequent city usage. I was initially planning to buy the Kia Sonet diesel GT variant, but I am also very attracted to the Skoda Slavia, mainly for its driving quality. The Sonet would cost around ₹16 lakh, while the Slavia Sportline automatic comes to about ₹17 lakh. Which of these would be the more suitable option for my needs? I previously owned a Ford Figo 1.5 TDCi, which I absolutely loved, so I would prefer something with similar power and performance.

Autocar India team

Autocar India

Verified
3h

The Kia Sonet diesel AT is a great car - compact, frugal, smooth and efficient - and feels like a logical compact upgrade to your Figo TDI. However, the fact that you're even considering the drive quality on your long journey to your hometown means you should go for the Skoda Slavia instead. Yes, the fuel efficiency won't be as good as the diesel, and it is a larger vehicle, which you might feel during your use in the city. But other than that, the driving pleasure it offers is on a different level, and will remind you fondly of your Ford, which is also a great handler. Its punchy 1.0 TSI makes a strong 115hp and 178Nm of torque, which are comparable to what you get in the Figo, and comes with a slick 6-speed MT or smooth 6-speed AT. Whichever you choose, you'll get a car that's fun to drive, stable out on the highway and friendly to use around town.

VehicleKia Sonet
VehicleSkoda Slavia

Posted on: 15 Mar 2026