Tata Motors is gearing up to make the highly anticipated Tata Sierra even more accessible to a wider audience. The automaker has developed an all-new 1.5-litre 4-cylinder naturally aspirated (NA) petrol engine, which will power the SUV’s entry-level variants, helping the brand achieve a more competitive price point while maintaining efficiency and reliability.
While the 1.5-litre direct-injection turbo-petrol engine showcased at Auto Expo 2023 has been the star of Tata’s upcoming powertrain lineup, this simpler, cost-effective naturally aspirated version could become the real sales driver for the Sierra range.
Tata’s New 1.5-Litre NA Petrol Engine: Efficient, Refined, and Affordable
The new 1.5-litre NA petrol unit is a derivative of Tata’s upcoming 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine. It shares the same core architecture — including bore spacing, block, and cylinder head design — but forgoes the turbocharger and direct injection system in favor of a port fuel injection (PFI) setup.
This configuration has been chosen deliberately for several reasons:
- Lower production costs and reduced mechanical complexity
- Improved fuel efficiency and reliability
- Easier maintenance and lower ownership costs for customers
The result is an engine that maintains robust performance while offering excellent everyday usability. Tata is targeting output figures of around 120hp and 140Nm, placing it in line with naturally aspirated 1.5-litre engines from rivals such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara.
According to Tata engineers, the new powertrain will also feature best-in-class NVH refinement, E20 fuel compatibility, and a focus on real-world efficiency.
Naturally Aspirated Petrol Still Drives the Segment
Despite the growing popularity of turbocharged petrol engines, naturally aspirated powertrains continue to dominate sales in the midsize SUV segment.
In fact, Hyundai and Kia’s 1.5-litre petrol engines account for nearly 60 percent of sales for the Creta and Seltos, respectively. This trend highlights that most customers in this segment still value affordability, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance costs over outright performance.
Tata Motors seems to have taken note — mirroring this dual-engine strategy by offering both an accessible 1.5-litre NA and a performance-oriented 1.5-litre turbo-petrol. The company’s aim is to attract a wider audience: from daily urban commuters to enthusiasts seeking more power.
Tata Sierra Powertrain Lineup: Three Engine Options
When launched, the Tata Sierra will offer three distinct engine options:
| Engine Type | Displacement | Power Output | Torque | Fuel System |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5-litre NA Petrol | 1,497cc | ~120hp | ~140Nm | Port Fuel Injection |
| 1.5-litre Turbo-Petrol | 1,497cc | ~170hp | ~280Nm | Direct Injection |
| 1.5-litre Diesel | 1,497cc | ~115hp | ~260Nm | Common Rail Turbo-Diesel |
The naturally aspirated petrol engine will be reserved for entry and mid-level Sierra variants, keeping prices accessible and maintenance costs low.
Meanwhile, higher trims will feature the 1.5-litre turbo-petrol unit — a new-generation engine designed with variable geometry turbocharging, advanced knock control, and direct injection. This setup is expected to deliver 170hp and 280Nm, making it one of Tata’s most powerful petrol engines yet.
Both engines will be paired with manual and automatic transmission options, depending on the variant.
Balancing Performance and Efficiency
Tata’s strategy with the new 1.5-litre NA engine is notably different from rival Mahindra’s approach. While Mahindra’s mStallion 2.0-litre turbo-petrol delivers class-leading performance (up to 200hp and 380Nm), it’s also known to be fuel-thirsty and costlier to produce.
Tata Motors, in contrast, is adopting a balanced philosophy — offering adequate performance through its turbo engines while ensuring everyday efficiency and affordability with the new naturally aspirated unit.
This dual-powertrain approach allows Tata to broaden its market reach, catering to both the performance-oriented buyer and the value-conscious family customer.
Tata Sierra Launch and Expected Pricing
The Tata Sierra is set to make its market debut later this month, with the new 1.5-litre NA petrol engine serving as the foundation for its entry-level variants.
Thanks to this new engine, the Sierra is expected to have a highly competitive starting price, potentially undercutting many of its turbocharged rivals. Once launched, it will sit above the Tata Curvv and below the Harrier, targeting buyers looking for a premium midsize SUV with distinctive design and practicality.
Industry analysts predict that the Sierra’s base variant could start around Rs 14–15 lakh (ex-showroom), while the turbo-petrol and diesel variants could stretch beyond Rs 20 lakh.
Tata Motors views the Sierra as a potential “Nexon moment” for its midsize SUV lineup — a breakthrough model that could redefine its position in the mainstream SUV market.
Verdict: A Smart, Balanced Move for Tata Motors
The introduction of the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine is a strategic move by Tata Motors. By combining affordability, efficiency, and practicality, the brand is positioning the Sierra to capture both budget-conscious and premium buyers within the midsize SUV space.
With three powertrain options, a focus on quality and refinement, and the revival of an iconic nameplate, the Tata Sierra could emerge as one of Tata’s most significant launches in recent years — bridging the gap between everyday usability and aspirational appeal.