Even though the Tata Sierra has been launched in the country, it continues to make headlines and generate massive interest among automotive enthusiasts. This is because Sierra is still undergoing testing and evaluation. One can guess that these are Sierra EV test mules, which are scheduled to launch later this year.
However, a new Tata Sierra test mule has been spotted with full camouflage and has a cutout for the exhaust tailpipe, suggesting an ICE powertrain. This hints at the possible development and testing of the Sierra CNG or Sierra AWD, both of which are planned by Tata Motors. let’s take a closer look.
New Tata Sierra spotted testing – CNG or AWD?
Tata Motors started the 2026 calendar year with a bang as the company started deliveries of the Sierra, one of the most talked-about SUVs in India. Within no time, Sierra has emerged as the 5th best selling C segment 4.2m to 4.5m SUV space with sales of 7,100 units in February 2026. The company has already received more than 1 lakh bookings.
Production is being increased at Tata Motors facilities to meet the growing demand for this desirable SUV. When the Sierra was unveiled, Tata Motors had announced that if sufficient demand existed, they were ready to introduce an AWD version of the Sierra and a CNG version of the Sierra. Tata has internally developed and validated a CNG option for the Sierra as well.
The company is closely monitoring the segment and customer reception of the Sierra. Based on market feedback, Tata may launch Sierra CNG and Sierra AWD. Looking at the recent test mules, it looks like Tata Motors has given the green signal to Sierra CNG or Sierra AWD (or both) projects to meet the demand.
what to expect?
Both CNG and AWD are valid in this segment as Maruti Suzuki and Toyota are offering the Grand Vitara, Hayrider and Victoris with both CNG and AWD options (not together). If this is true, then Tata Motors will offer a dual cylinder CNG tank implementation with the Sierra CNG. As per other Tata i-CNG cars, it will also have a spare wheel, which Maruti’s new underbody CNG implementation in the Victoris does not have.
With Sierra CNG, buyers will get better fuel efficiency and lower operating costs. Tata is likely to offer the Sierra CNG with only the 1.5L NA petrol engine. This engine is rated at 106 bhp and 145 Nm on petrol. Tata may also offer the Sierra CNG with a 7DCT gearbox option, making it the first automatic CNG SUV in the segment.
As far as the Sierra AWD is concerned, Tata Motors can bundle this sophisticated equipment only with the 1.5L Hyperion engine and 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox options. There is no launch timeline for the Tata Sierra CNG or Sierra AWD, but one can guess that early 2027 could be the right time.
Read this also- Tata Sierra ARAI mileage figures revealed through RTI
