After the success of the Sierra, Tata seems to be working on its smaller version. With its test mules being spotted on Indian roads, here is what we can expect from the production-spec model.
Tata Mini-Sierra – What To Expect?
We have spotted the Sierra near Tata’s production plant in Pune. From the spyshots, the test mule shares many similarities with the Sierra, including the slim, connected taillights and upright stance. But from the images, the mule looks much smaller than the Sierra. Not to mention, the taillight elements and the boot panel have subtle differences.
Tata is working on a compact SUV, codenamed Scarlet, that will share its design language with the Sierra. We expect this test mule to be the production version of the Scarlet. This SUV will be a more rugged alternative to the Tata Nexon. To match the rugged appearance, it could be offered with AWD on the electric version.
Powertrain
We expect it to utilise the 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine and 1.5-litre diesel from the Nexon. Gearbox options could include a 6-speed MT, 7-speed DCT (for the turbo-petrol) and a 6-speed AMT. Tata could also offer its dual-cylinder CNG technology on the Scarlet.
Like most Tata models, it would get its electrified version. The Scarlet EV is expected to offer 45kWh and 55kWh battery packs, and both packs could offer a claimed range of around 420-450 km.
The ICE version is expected to be offered with a FWD drivetrain as standard, and the AWD could be offered only on the electric version. Tata currently doesn’t have an AWD-compatible compact platform for its petrol/diesel models. Accommodating a dual-motor AWD setup for the EV seems like a much simpler task.
Tata Mini-Sierra – Features
Given that the Scarlet will share many underpinnings with the Sierra, it could get the triple-screen setup on the inside. Tata would offer it plenty of features, like level 2 ADAS, a panoramic sunroof, a 360-degree camera, and wireless charging, to keep it competitive in the tough sub-4m SUV segment.
Currently, the Thar is the only compact SUV to offer a 4WD/AWD drivetrain. The Scarlet could be Tata’s answer to the Mahindra Thar. Tata could market it as a more modern and premium alternative to the fabled Thar.
Expected Launch & Pricing
At the moment, the Scarlet still seems in its early stages of development. The production-spec model is expected to be showcased in the later months of 2027. As the launch date nears, more test mules will be spotted testing.
The ICE version of the Scarlet is rumoured to be priced between Rs 9 lakh and Rs 17 lakh (on-road, Mumbai). The EV version will be priced slightly higher between Rs 14 lakh and Rs 21 lakh (on-road, Mumbai).