The Sierra and Curvv, both midsize SUVs from Tata Motors, offer a 1.5-litre diesel engine choice to buyers. While the Sierra pairs this motor with a torque-converter automatic, the Curvv, unlike any other in the segment, uses a dual-clutch gearbox. Their body styles differ, too, with the Sierra taking the conventional route and the Curvv opting for a coupe-SUV shape. So how do the diesel-run Sierra AT and Curvv DCT compare in the real world, from a standstill to 100kph and in rolling acceleration? Our performance tests tell the story.
Tata Sierra AT vs Curvv DCT diesel: Specifications
On paper, both SUVs are closely matched as they use the brand's 1,497cc diesel engine with identical power output. In terms of peak torque, however, the Sierra has a 20Nm advantage over the Curvv’s 260Nm. While the engine is a carryover from the Nexon and Curvv, Tata says there's a new state of tune and hardware such as low-friction piston rings in the Sierra. As mentioned earlier, the siblings take different approaches with their automatic gearboxes. Another point of difference is fuel tank capacity; at 50 litres, the Sierra’s tank is 6 litres larger.
Tata Sierra AT vs Curvv DCT diesel: 0-100kph acceleration test
Evidently, the Sierra is quicker off the line and pulls ahead in the 0-20kph sprint. But beyond that, the Curvv is quicker at every marker, and the gap keeps widening right up to 120kph. In the 0-100kph run, the Curvv is quicker by a good 1.25 seconds. What this really means is that the Sierra feels quicker off the line, whereas the Curvv has stronger mid-range and top-end punch.
While exact kerb weight figures are not available, the Curvv’s quick-shifting dual-clutch gearbox plays a key role in giving it the edge in acceleration.
Tata Sierra AT vs Curvv DCT diesel: Rolling acceleration test
What community is saying on the Sierra?
The coupe-SUV maintains its lead even in rolling acceleration, with the Sierra trailing it in 20-80kph and 40-100kph runs by 1.49 seconds and 0.8 seconds, respectively.
Tata Sierra AT vs Curvv DCT diesel: Prices
While both are midsize SUVs, Tata positions the Sierra as the more premium offering, and that is reflected in pricing. Notably, both offer a diesel-automatic powertrain from their respective one-above-base trims: Sierra Pure and Curvv Pure Plus. The Curvv diesel automatic has a lower price, with its base version undercutting the Sierra’s by Rs 2.04 lakh. The gap only widens at the top end, where the Curvv Accomplished Plus A is priced Rs 2.39 lakh lower than the Sierra Accomplished Plus with the same powertrain.
Autocar India’s testing standards
Before we conduct our performance tests, we check and maintain tyre pressures based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and ensure the car has a full tank of fuel. The car is then tested in a controlled environment with two people on board, and the data is collected via highly accurate GPS-based timing equipment.
Ex-showroom prices are as of April 17, 2026.
Dipan Sur
Glenn Noronha
