Khyati Sharma 2026-10-31
Tata Motors is preparing to expand the Sierra lineup with additional powertrain options, including an all-wheel-drive (AWD) version of the internal combustion engine (ICE) SUV. The Tata Sierra ICE AWD is expected to arrive in early 2027, while a CNG variant is also being considered as part of the company's future product strategy.
The development comes as Tata Motors continues testing different versions of the Sierra on Indian roads. A heavily camouflaged test vehicle was recently spotted near Pune, Maharashtra, sparking speculation that the company could be evaluating either the upcoming CNG or ICE AWD version.
While the AWD version has already received confirmation from Tata Motors, the CNG model has not yet been officially announced with a launch date. Both options could help the company attract a wider range of customers in India's competitive midsize SUV cars segment.
Tata Motors has confirmed that an AWD version of the ICE-powered Sierra is under development and is expected to arrive in early 2027. This will mark an important addition to the company's combustion-engine SUV portfolio.
The Sierra currently uses a front-wheel-drive layout across its petrol and diesel variants. The upcoming AWD version is expected to offer improved traction on slippery roads, uneven surfaces and challenging driving conditions.
The development is particularly significant because Tata Motors has not offered an ICE-powered AWD SUV in its regular passenger vehicle lineup since the Hexa was discontinued in 2020.
The Sierra AWD will also strengthen the model's appeal among buyers looking for a more adventure-focused SUV. However, its final engine, transmission and variant details have not yet been officially revealed.
Alongside the AWD model, Tata Motors is reportedly evaluating a CNG-powered Sierra. The company has experience with its twin-cylinder iCNG technology, which is already available across several models in its passenger vehicle portfolio.
A CNG version could make the Sierra more attractive to customers who prioritise lower running costs. It may also help Tata reach buyers who want an SUV with a conventional internal combustion engine but prefer CNG for everyday driving.
The Sierra's ARGOS platform has been designed to accommodate multiple powertrain types, including petrol, diesel, CNG, hybrid and electric configurations.
Reports have also suggested that Tata has explored or internally tested a CNG setup for the Sierra. However, the company has not announced a confirmed production schedule or launch date for this version.
If introduced, the Sierra CNG could use a version of the existing 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. The possibility of Tata's twin-cylinder CNG arrangement could help preserve more usable luggage space than a conventional single-cylinder layout. Final technical details remain unknown.
A recently spotted camouflaged Tata Sierra test vehicle near Pune has renewed interest in the company's upcoming variants.
The test mule was covered in heavy camouflage, making it difficult to identify its exact configuration. Reports have suggested that it could be connected to either the CNG or ICE AWD development programme.
However, the spy shots do not independently confirm which version is being tested. Tata Motors is likely to continue evaluating different configurations before making any further announcements.
The company has previously confirmed the AWD development programme, while the CNG possibility remains less certain.
The current ICE-powered Tata Sierra is offered with three 1.5-litre engine options.
The naturally aspirated petrol engine produces approximately 106hp and 145Nm of torque. It is available with manual and dual-clutch automatic transmission options.
The 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine produces around 160hp and 255Nm of torque and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Diesel buyers get a 1.5-litre engine producing approximately 118hp and 260Nm with the manual gearbox, while the automatic version develops up to 280Nm of torque.
All current ICE versions use front-wheel drive. Tata has not confirmed which engine and transmission combination will be offered with the upcoming AWD system.
The turbo-petrol engine could be a suitable candidate for the AWD variant, although the final configuration will be announced closer to its launch.
The Tata Sierra is based on the company's ARGOS architecture, which stands for All-terrain Ready, Omni-Energy and Geometry Scalable Architecture.
This platform has been developed to support different vehicle configurations and powertrain technologies. It can accommodate petrol, diesel, CNG, hybrid and electric powertrains, along with provisions for all-wheel drive.
The flexibility of ARGOS gives Tata Motors the opportunity to expand the Sierra family without developing an entirely new platform for every variant.
It also allows the company to target different customer requirements through multiple engine and drivetrain combinations.
The AWD configuration is expected to improve the Sierra's capability on difficult surfaces, although it should not automatically be considered a dedicated off-road vehicle. Its actual performance will depend on the final drivetrain hardware, tyres, ground clearance and electronic traction systems.
The two upcoming possibilities will target different customer requirements.
The AWD version will primarily appeal to buyers who want additional traction and confidence on challenging roads. It could also attract SUV enthusiasts interested in occasional outdoor trips and mountainous routes.
The CNG version, if launched, would focus more on affordability and running costs. It could appeal to customers who use their SUVs regularly and want an alternative to conventional petrol and diesel fuel.
Both variants could help Tata Motors broaden the Sierra's customer base. However, their pricing, availability and final specifications will play an important role in determining their market positioning.
The early 2027 timeline for the ICE AWD Sierra gives Tata Motors time to complete development and testing. More details about its engine, gearbox, drivetrain and variant lineup are expected closer to the launch.
The CNG version remains a possibility rather than a confirmed upcoming launch. Its introduction could depend on market demand, product planning and the company's final decision.
For now, the AWD version is the more clearly established development, while the CNG model remains under consideration. If both versions eventually reach showrooms, the Sierra lineup could offer customers a wider choice of performance, traction and fuel options.
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