As petrol prices continue to rise, diesel automatic SUVs still make strong sense for Indian buyers who drive regularly. Among the few remaining options, the Kia Seltos Diesel Automatic and the Tata Sierra Diesel Automatic stand out as practical, comfortable, and efficient choices.
Both SUVs cater to daily commuters as well as highway travelers—but their driving character, design approach, and value proposition are different. Let’s take a closer look to help you decide which one fits your lifestyle better.
Exterior Design & Road Presence
Kia Seltos Diesel AT
The Kia Seltos has a modern, city-friendly design that appeals to young professionals and small families. Its sharp lines and premium detailing give it an upmarket feel without being too flashy.
Design highlights:
- Stylish LED headlamps and DRLs
- Sporty grille and sculpted body lines
- Compact size that’s easy to manage in traffic
Tata Sierra Diesel AT
The Tata Sierra follows a bold and muscular design philosophy. It looks larger and more imposing, making it appealing to buyers who prefer a strong SUV stance.
Design highlights:
- Upright proportions with wide body
- Higher ground clearance for rough roads
- Rugged design suited for highways and long trips
Design Verdict:
The Seltos feels more urban and premium, while the Sierra offers a bigger and tougher SUV presence.
Engine Performance & Driving Comfort
Both SUVs are powered by 1.5-litre diesel engines paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox, but their tuning changes how they feel on the road.
Engine Output Comparison
| SUV | Power | Torque |
|---|---|---|
| Kia Seltos Diesel AT | ~116 hp | 250 Nm |
| Tata Sierra Diesel AT | ~118 hp | 280 Nm |
Real-World Driving Experience
- Kia Seltos Diesel AT
- Smooth and refined engine
- Very comfortable in stop-and-go traffic
- Gear shifts are relaxed and seamless
- Tata Sierra Diesel AT
- Stronger torque delivery
- Feels more confident during highway overtakes
- Better suited for long-distance cruising
Performance Verdict:
For city driving and smoothness, the Seltos feels easier. For highway power and load-carrying ability, the Sierra has the advantage.
Mileage & Daily Running Costs
Fuel efficiency is a key reason buyers still prefer diesel SUVs.
- Kia Seltos Diesel AT: approx. 17–19 km/l
- Tata Sierra Diesel AT: approx. 16–18 km/l
Actual mileage depends on driving habits and road conditions.
Mileage Verdict:
The Seltos is slightly more fuel-efficient, making it ideal for daily commuting.
Safety Features & Reliability
Both SUVs offer a solid safety package suitable for families.
Common Safety Features
- Multiple airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Control
- Rear parking sensors and camera
Additional Observations
- Tata Sierra focuses on structural strength and standard safety
- Kia Seltos offers more comfort-oriented and driver-assist features in higher variants
Safety Verdict:
Both SUVs are safe choices, with Sierra feeling more robust, while Seltos feels more tech-friendly.
Key Specifications Overview
| Specification | Kia Seltos Diesel AT | Tata Sierra Diesel AT |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L Diesel | 1.5L Diesel |
| Gearbox | 6-speed Automatic | 6-speed Automatic |
| Max Torque | 250 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Mileage (approx.) | 17–19 km/l | 16–18 km/l |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive |
Price & Value for Money (Ex-Showroom, India)
- Kia Seltos Diesel AT: starts at around ₹15 lakh
- Tata Sierra Diesel AT: starts at around ₹16 lakh
Prices vary depending on variant and location.
Price Verdict:
Seltos offers a lower starting price, while Sierra justifies its premium with size and performance.
Which Diesel Automatic SUV Should You Buy?
Buy the Kia Seltos Diesel AT if:
- You drive mainly in city traffic
- You want better fuel efficiency
- You prefer a refined and comfortable ride
Buy the Tata Sierra Diesel AT if:
- You travel frequently on highways
- You want strong torque and confident overtakes
- You prefer a bigger, more rugged SUV
Final Thoughts: A Practical Diesel Choice for Indian Roads
In a market where diesel automatics are becoming rare, both the Kia Seltos and Tata Sierra remain sensible options. The Seltos is perfect for buyers who want a smooth, efficient daily driver, while the Sierra suits those who enjoy long drives and a commanding road presence.
Whichever you choose, both SUVs offer a balanced mix of comfort, performance, and reliability—making them worth serious consideration in 2026.
