Tata Sierra 2025 first drive: Big on presence, surprisingly easy to drive

The Tata Sierra is easily one of the most anticipated car launches of 2025. Its retro-modern design, extensive feature list and technology package have already been widely discussed. The key question, however, is far more fundamental: how does the new Sierra perform in the real world? A first drive reveals a vehicle that may look imposing but is far more approachable from behind the wheel than its size suggests.Despite its large footprint and tall stance, the Sierra feels easy to manage in everyday driving conditions. In city traffic and on crowded highways, visibility is aided by the upright SUV shape and the large, flat bonnet, which gives the driver a clear sense of the vehicle’s extremities. While the thick A-pillars and door mirrors do create some blind spots—a familiar trait in Tata vehicles—the overall driving confidence remains high.
Comfort is a strong suit. The driver benefits from a spacious footwell with a well-sized dead pedal, making long stints behind the wheel less tiring. The high-set SUV seating position offers a commanding view of the road, and even at the lowest seat setting, the driving posture feels natural. The seats themselves are supportive and comfortable, with adjustable bolstering that works effectively, though the steering wheel’s slightly awkward angle detracts marginally from the otherwise ergonomic setup.
Under the hood, Tata Motors is offering two powertrain options at launch: a new 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine producing 160 PS and 255 Nm, and a 1.5-litre diesel generating 118 PS and 280 Nm. Both engines are paired with a six-speed Aisin automatic torque converter, a notable choice in a segment where many rivals opt for dual-clutch transmissions.The turbo petrol delivers strong, linear performance and feels well matched to the torque converter. It is smooth and tractable, offering good drivability across the rev range, especially in urban conditions. While Sport mode sharpens throttle response, there is a slight delay in gearbox reactions under hard acceleration. Performance is brisk, with an expected sub-10-second sprint from 0 to 100 kmph, putting the Sierra squarely among its competitors. That said, enthusiasts may find it lacking the high-rev excitement and top-end punch seen in some European turbo petrol rivals.

Refinement is an area where the Sierra shows room for improvement. At lower speeds, noise and vibration levels are acceptable, but a noticeable engine drone emerges around 2,000 rpm during cruising. At highway speeds, wind and tyre noise become more prominent than expected for a vehicle positioned as a modern, premium SUV.

Where the Sierra truly impresses is ride quality. Despite riding on large 19-inch wheels, the suspension setup handles rough village roads and broken surfaces with confidence. The car maintains composure over stones, ditches and uneven terrain, delivering a firm yet reassuring ride. Ground clearance was never a concern during testing, reinforcing confidence in the platform and boding well for the all-wheel-drive version that Tata Motors has already confirmed is under development.

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The diesel variant builds on this solid foundation with a stronger sense of effortlessness. The additional torque gives it a more energetic feel off the line and makes highway cruising particularly relaxed. While some diesel clatter is evident, refinement is a step up from Tata’s existing diesel offerings in the Nexon and Curvv. Overtaking is easy, braking performance is linear and predictable, and overall handling remains composed, even if it does not cater specifically to driving enthusiasts.

Taken as a whole, the Tata Sierra makes a strong case as a comfortable, capable and easy-to-drive SUV that prioritises real-world usability over outright sportiness. It may not be the quietest or the most engaging in its class, but its blend of presence, ride comfort and everyday drivability positions it well for buyers seeking a premium family SUV with road presence and practicality at its core.

Watch accompanying video for entire review.