Tata Sierra Hyperion VS Hyundai Creta N Line VS Kia Seltos TGDi

In India's fiercely competitive compact/mid-size SUV segment, the freshly launched Tata Sierra with its turbo-petrol Hyperion engine challenges the upcoming bolder 2026 Kia Seltos facelift (HTK(O) T-GDi 7DCT) and the sporty Hyundai Creta N Line N8 1.5 Turbo DCT.

Design and Dimensions

These three turbo-petrol automatic compact SUVs target Indian buyers who want a balance of road presence, everyday usability, and performance without stepping into full-size SUV territory. Each follows a clearly defined design philosophy. 

The Tata Sierra Adventure Plus TGDi brings back a legendary nameplate with a upright stance, slab-sided profile, and wrap-around glass give it a unique road presence that stands apart from the more curved crossovers in this segment.

The 2026 Kia Seltos HTK(O) T-GDi 7DCT adopts a sharper, more futuristic approach. The updated front fascia, stretched proportions, and connected lighting elements make it look wider and more premium than earlier versions.

Meanwhile, the Hyundai Creta N Line N8 1.5 Turbo DCT takes a sport-centric route. It builds on the familiar Creta silhouette but adds N Line-specific styling cues that give it a more aggressive and youthful character, especially for buyers who prefer a dynamic visual identity.

In terms of hardware, the Sierra features Bi-LED projector headlamps, connected LED tail lamps, a gesture-controlled tailgate, and a wide colour palette including Andaman Adventure Yellow and Bengal Rouge Red. 

The Seltos offers Star Map LED DRLs, Ice Cube LED headlamps, a larger tiger-nose grille, and connected tail lamps, with select variants offering dual-tone roof options. The Creta N Line stands out with red accents on the grille and brake callipers, twin exhaust tips, N Line badging, and exclusive colours like Thunder Blue.

Dimensionally, the Sierra measures 4,340 mm in length, 1,841 mm in width, and 1,715 mm in height, supported by a long 2,730 mm wheelbase that translates into a spacious cabin. The Seltos is the longest at 4,460 mm, with a 2,690 mm wheelbase that enhances road presence and interior room. T

The Creta N Line is the most compact, measuring 4,330 mm long with a 2,610 mm wheelbase, making it easier to manoeuvre in urban conditions. Ground clearance across all three ranges between 190 mm and 205 mm, ensuring suitability for Indian roads. 

Wheel sizes vary from 16 to 18 inches, depending on variant and brand focus. Visually, the Sierra feels adventurous, the Seltos feels premium and contemporary, and the Creta N Line feels sporty and agile.

Also Read - Tata's New Hyperion 1.5 TGDI Engine Explained

Interior Space And Features

The Tata Sierra Adventure Plus TGDi makes the most of its long wheelbase by offering excellent rear legroom and a flat rear floor, which improves comfort for three passengers at the back. 

The wide cabin layout and large glass area also enhance the sense of space inside.

The 2026 Kia Seltos HTK(O) T-GDi 7DCT focuses on a balanced cabin experience. The extended dimensions help free up shoulder and knee room, especially in the second row. Adjustable headrests, good under-thigh support, and a practical seating posture make it comfortable for both city commutes and highway trips. 

The Hyundai Creta N Line N8 1.5 Turbo DCT, while slightly more compact, compensates with well-bolstered seats that provide better lateral support. The suspension tuning is firmer, which enthusiasts may appreciate, though it slightly affects rear-seat softness over rough surfaces.

Material quality varies by intent. The Sierra uses fabric upholstery in grey shades with leatherette accents, aiming for durability and a premium-practical balance. The Seltos features smoky black and grey fabric seats with subtle blue highlights and metallic interior handles, giving it a modern, understated look. T

he Creta N Line adopts a darker theme with black leatherette upholstery, red stitching, and N branding, reinforcing its sporty identity.

Feature sets are strong across the board. All three offer rear AC vents, rear armrests, cup holders, and multiple storage spaces. The Sierra adds thoughtful touches like thigh support extensions and ambient lighting. 

The Seltos includes driver seat height adjustment, a sunglass holder, and smart storage solutions. The Creta N Line stands out with ventilated front seats, metal pedals, and N Line-specific interior trims. 

Boot space is a clear advantage for the Sierra at 622 litres, while the Seltos and Creta offer around 447 litres each, sufficient for family luggage. Overall, the Sierra prioritises space and comfort, the Seltos balances practicality and refinement, and the Creta N Line focuses on driver engagement without sacrificing everyday usability.

Infotainment

Infotainment plays a major role in buyer decisions in this segment, and all three SUVs offer modern, connected systems tailored for Indian users. The Tata Sierra Adventure Plus TGDi clearly leads in screen real estate and technology integration. It features a 12-inch central touchscreen, a 12-inch co-driver display, and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. 

Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are supported, along with 5G connectivity, over-the-air updates, and a 12-speaker sound setup that includes tweeters for improved audio clarity.

The 2026 Kia Seltos HTK(O) T-GDi 7DCT uses a 10.25-inch HD touchscreen paired with a 12-inch digital instrument cluster with a TFT MID. The interface is intuitive, responsive, and easy to use, especially while driving. Wireless smartphone connectivity, Bluetooth, steering-mounted controls, and voice commands ensure convenience without distraction. 

The Hyundai Creta N Line N8 1.5 Turbo DCT features a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a fully digital cluster, supported by wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, voice recognition, and Hyundai’s connected car tech.

Also Read - New Kia Seltos 2026 Top 10 Features Explained

Power and Engine Mileage

All three SUVs rely on turbo-petrol engines paired with automatic transmissions, offering a good mix of performance and convenience. The Tata Sierra Adventure Plus TGDi uses a 1.5-litre Hyperion TGDi engine producing around 160 PS and 255 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox. 

The 2026 Kia Seltos HTK(O) T-GDi 7DCT is powered by the 1.5-litre Smartstream turbo-petrol engine, generating 160 PS and 253 Nm, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. It offers selectable drive modes, allowing drivers to switch between efficiency and performance depending on driving conditions.

 The Hyundai Creta N Line N8 1.5 Turbo DCT uses a similar 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 158 bhp and 253 Nm, paired with a 7-speed DCT and paddle shifters, making it the most engaging to drive among the three.

Safety

Safety equipment across these SUVs is comprehensive and designed to meet modern expectations. The Tata Sierra Adventure Plus TGDi stands out with its advanced safety suite, offering six airbags, electronic stability control with multiple functions, Level 2 ADAS features, a 360-degree camera, tyre pressure monitoring, and ISOFIX child seat mounts. These features make it particularly appealing to safety-focused buyers.

The 2026 Kia Seltos HTK(O) T-GDi 7DCT includes six airbags, ESC, vehicle stability management, hill-assist control, all-disc brakes, rear parking sensors, and tyre pressure monitoring. It also benefits from structural enhancements introduced in recent updates. The Hyundai Creta N Line N8 1.5 Turbo DCT offers six airbags, ABS, ESC, hill-assist, TPMS, rear camera, and additional security features like impact-sensing door unlock.

All three models come with standard seatbelt reminders, speed-sensing door locks, and child safety locks. The Sierra clearly leads in active safety tech, while the Seltos and Creta focus on robust fundamentals and proven reliability.

Also Read - Confirmed Upcoming Car Launches in India in 2025-2026

Prices

Pricing places all three SUVs firmly in the premium compact SUV bracket. The Tata Sierra Adventure Plus TGDi is priced at ₹17.99 lakh ex-showroom, offering strong value considering its space, technology, and safety package. 

The 2026 Kia Seltos HTK(O) T-GDi 7DCT does not yet have officially announced pricing, but it is expected to fall between ₹16 lakh and ₹18 lakh ex-showroom, depending on final positioning. The Hyundai Creta N Line N8 1.5 Turbo DCT is priced at ₹18.47 lakh ex-showroom, justified by its sporty styling and performance-focused features.

On-road prices typically increase by 15 to 20 percent depending on state taxes, insurance, and registration costs. Buyers should also consider dealer offers, extended warranties, and service packages when making a final decision.