Well, the spotted SUV was none other than the Tata Sierra. We came across a short video on X, giving us a glimpse of the Sierra undergoing testing. However, as it was heavily camouflaged, there were very few details that were revealed. In the video, we were able to spot a dual-screen setup, a new set of alloy wheels, and black flush door handles. The black flush door handles suggest that this could be a Dark Edition of the Tata Sierra, considering the flush door handles across the Sierra range are body coloured.
Now, as we already have 3 engine options, 2 petrol units and a diesel mill, this could either be a CNG model or a hybrid. We say it’s not the EV because the test mule had an exhaust. Regardless of whether it is a CNG or hybrid version of the Sierra, it will likely have a claimed fuel efficiency of 25 kmpl. So, let’s dive into more details about the hybrid as well as the CNG versions of the Sierra.
Sierra Hybrid?
When Tata launched the Sierra, it introduced two new engine options: a 1.5-litre NA petrol engine and a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine. The NA petrol engine is an Atkinson-cycle engine and can be used in a hybrid powertrain. Moreover, along with the Sierra, Tata introduced a new platform, ARGOS, which can accommodate multiple powertrains like petrol, diesel, hybrid, and CNG. So, considering the Atkinson-cycle engine and the new ARGOS platform, it could be a possibility that the test mule was a Sierra hybrid. We can expect to see impressive fuel efficiency figures and improved driving range with this powertrain option. It will be interesting to see whether Tata introduces the Sierra hybrid, as the brand itself has not confirmed that this SUV will come equipped with it in the future. However, Tata has confirmed something quite interesting – here are more details!
Tata Sierra CNG?
In a few interviews, the Managing Director and CEO of Tata, Shailesh Chandran, hinted towards the possibility of Sierra CNG. He also confirmed that Tata will analyse the demand for CNG in the Sierra, and if it is a considerable amount, the brand may bring in a CNG model. Last year, he also mentioned that Tata is closely watching the 4.3-meter segment, and if the demand is ample, the brand could expand its portfolio by introducing CNG.
Moreover, we have observed that the Sierra has a dummy nozzle right next to the petrol nozzle, and as the Sierra diesel does not require AdBlue, the dummy nozzle could be for the CNG version. So, it is likely that the Sierra could be offered as CNG. It will likely get Tata’s twin-cylinder tech for better use of space and more practicality. We can expect to see the CNG tech paired to the 1.5-litre NA petrol engine with an expected fuel economy figure of around 22-25kmpl. We can expect to see the CNG powertrain paired with an automatic transmission.