The Tata Sierra vs Kia Seltos are two strong contenders in India’s mid-size SUV segment as of January 2026. The Tata Sierra price (ex-showroom) starts at ₹11.49 Lakh and for the 2026 Kia Seltos price (ex-showroom) starts at ₹10.99 Lakh.
You have the more unique retro-modern styling, greater ground clearance and a potent new turbo-petrol motor on select trims in favour of the Sierra while the Seltos brings a lower entry price (supposedly), sophisticate interiors, more comprehensive ADAS Level-2+ tech on top models and simply greater variant spread to deliver better value elsewhere in the range.
Both deliver competitive performance, safety features, and premium amenities, making the choice hinge on style preference, driving needs, and budget.
What Is the Tata Sierra?
The Tata Sierra is set to be a comeback of a classic nameplate in the form of a modern mid-size SUV re-introduced at the end of 2025 on Tata’s new Argos platform. It marries retro boxy styling with modern tech, making it a rugged but premium choice in the class.
Contents Deliveries started in January 2026, the model’s traits being bold presence, spacey interiors and sound safety credentials. It sits between the Nexon and Harrier/Safari in Tata’s pipeline.
What Is the Kia Seltos?
The Kia Seltos received a significant 2026 facelift/refresh in early January 2026, enhancing its already popular formula with bolder styling, upgraded tech (including ADAS Level-2+), and refined powertrains. It remains one of the segment leaders for urban buyers seeking premium feel, feature richness, and smooth ride quality.
The Seltos continues to excel in refinement, connectivity, and a broad engine-transmission matrix.
Tata Sierra vs Kia Seltos: Price Comparison (Ex-Showroom, January 2026)
- Base models: Seltos HTE Petrol ₹10.99 Lakh; Sierra Smart+ Petrol ₹11.49 Lakh.
- Mid variants: Seltos HTK+/HTX range ₹13–16 Lakh; Sierra mid-trims (Pure/Adventure) ₹14–18 Lakh.
- Top variants: Seltos GTX+/X-Line up to ₹19.99 Lakh; Sierra top-end (Fearless/Luxury) around ₹21.29 Lakh.
On-road prices in Delhi/Pitampura add ₹1.5–3 Lakh depending on variant and state taxes. Seltos offers better entry-level accessibility, while Tata Sierra commands a slight premium for its unique design and features in higher trims.
What Engine and Performance Options Do They Offer?
- Petrol:
- Sierra: 1.5L NA (around 105–110 bhp) and new 1.5L TGDi Hyperion Turbo (158 bhp, 255 Nm) — punchy for highways.
- Seltos: 1.5L NA (113 bhp), 1.5L Turbo (158–160 bhp) — smooth and responsive.
- Diesel:
- Sierra: 1.5L Kryotec Turbo (116–118 bhp, high torque).
- Seltos: 1.5L CRDi (114–116 bhp).
- Transmissions: Both offer 6MT, 6AT/TC, and DCT options (Seltos in turbo).
- Mileage (ARAI): Similar 17–21 kmpl; real-world 14–18 kmpl depending on driving style.
Sierra’s new turbo-petrol stands out for balanced power delivery.
What Key Features Differentiate Them?
- Safety: Both include 6 airbags standard in higher trims, ESP, hill-hold. Sierra emphasizes 21+ ESP features; Seltos offers Level-2+ ADAS (adaptive cruise, lane keep) in top variants.
- Comfort/Tech: Seltos takes the lead with ventilation seats, dual-pane panoramic sunroof, wireless charging and premium Bose audio. Sierra has powered tailgate (gesture), memory seats, and big touchscreen infotainment in reply.
- Exterior/Interior: Sierra’s boxy retro styline looks good on high-clearance rough roads; Seltos has a more refined, contemporary look and premium materials inside.
Boot space: Both about 430-500L (Seltos marginally ahead in some configs).
How Do They Compare in Driving Experience?
Sierra feels more planted, has better high-speed stability and different suspension tuned for versatility — excellent for mixed city-highway or some light off-road use. Seltos provides a smooth, cushiony ride with little body roll that’s suited for around-town comfort and longer trips. Both ride well, though Sierra’s additional height lends confidence when the roads are nasty.
FAQ
Q. Which is cheaper: Tata Sierra or Kia Seltos?
Kia Seltos starts lower at ₹10.99 Lakh ex-showroom vs Sierra’s ₹11.49 Lakh, though top variants see Sierra slightly higher.
Q. Which has better safety features: Tata Sierra or Kia Seltos?
Both strong; Seltos offers Level-2+ ADAS in top trims, while Sierra emphasizes comprehensive ESP and standard safety kit across variants.
Q. What engines are available in Tata Sierra vs Kia Seltos?
Both offer 1.5L petrol/diesel; Sierra adds a new 158 bhp turbo-petrol, Seltos provides smooth turbo and refined NA options.
Q. Is Tata Sierra better for highways or city driving?
Sierra suits mixed use with higher ground clearance and stability; Seltos excels in city refinement and comfort.
Q. Which offers more premium features: Tata Sierra or Kia Seltos?
Seltos edges in ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof availability, and audio; Sierra counters with powered memory seats and gesture tailgate.
