nearly a decade, the Hyundai Creta has dominated India’s mid-size SUV market. Its perfect balance of design, features, performance, and reliability has made it the go-to choice for lakhs of Indian buyers. But that dominance might soon be tested.
Three major automakers — Tata Motors, Renault, and Nissan — are now preparing to shake up this fiercely competitive segment with brand-new SUVs that blend technology, design innovation, and global platforms. Each of these upcoming models carries high expectations, promising to challenge the Creta’s long-standing monopoly in style.
Tata Sierra: The Comeback Icon Reimagined
Heritage Meets Modernity
The first name in this new wave of SUVs is one that stirs nostalgia — Tata Sierra. The name returns after decades, but this time it isn’t just a retro revival. It’s a futuristic, sophisticated SUV designed to represent Tata Motors’ next era of innovation.
Unveiled in a near-production avatar at the Auto Expo 2025, the new Tata Sierra will officially debut in November 2025, positioned squarely in the mid-size SUV space. Its boxy yet elegant stance, accentuated by modern LED lighting and a bold grille, stays true to the original’s spirit while evolving for today’s buyers
Design & Dimensions
Unlike its two-door predecessor, the new Sierra will sport a four-door layout for practicality. The SUV embraces a squarish design, muscular wheel arches, and a wide stance that gives it road presence comparable to premium rivals. Expect the design language to reflect Tata’s ‘Impact 3.0’ philosophy, with sharp lines and subtle EV-ready aesthetics.
The interior is expected to feature dual digital displays, soft-touch materials, a panoramic sunroof, and Tata’s next-generation IRA 2.0 connected car system
Engine Options: Petrol, Diesel, and E
Tata Motors is introducing a new 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine for the first time. For performance seekers, a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 168 hp and 280 Nm will also be available.
In addition, Tata will retain a 1.5-litre diesel engine tuned for 116 hp and 260 Nm — ideal for long-distance drivers.
But the biggest headline is the Sierra.ev, which will follow shortly after the ICE model’s launch. This electric variant will use Tata’s Gen 2 architecture and may offer a dual-motor AWD configuration, a range of around 500 km, and a unique lounge-style 2+2 seating in select trims.
Expected Price & Rivals
The Tata Sierra will likely be priced between ₹16 lakh and ₹24 lakh (ex-showroom), placing it right in the heart of the Creta’s territory. It will compete directly with the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and MG Astor.
Renault Duster: The Legend Returns, Tougher Than Ever
The Rebirth of an SUV Icon
Next in line is a name that once defined rugged value — the Renault Duster. After years of absence, Renault is gearing up to launch the third-generation Duster in India, likely within the next two months.
This new iteration brings the Duster’s classic robustness back, but with a sharper, more muscular look and technology-packed interior that make it relevant for today’s urban SUV buyer.
Exterior Design
The new Duster borrows cues from Renault’s international design language — featuring chunky wheel arches, C-shaped LED headlamps, and a bold new grille. Its butch stance gives it serious road presence, and unlike most crossovers, it retains that “true SUV” feel with high ground clearance and strong proportions.
Unlike some rivals chasing curves, the Duster continues to emphasize toughness and practicality — a character that made the original such a favorite among enthusiasts
Cabin & Features
Step inside, and the Duster now feels more premium and modern than ever before. The SUV will feature:
- A large floating touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Automatic climate control
- 360-degree camera
- Premium seat upholstery
- Push-button start-stop
- Digital driver display
Interestingly, Renault seems to have skipped the panoramic sunroof this time — a choice that may disappoint some buyers but allows the brand to focus on safety and cost efficiency.
Powertrain & Platform
The third-gen Duster will use the new CMF-B platform, co-developed with Nissan. This modular architecture supports both ICE and hybrid powertrains, making it future-ready.
Expected engines include:
- A 1.0-litre turbo-petrol with ~120 hp
- A 1.3-litre turbo-petrol with ~150 hp (seen internationally)
- Option of manual or CVT automatic transmissions
While the diesel is unlikely to return, Renault may introduce a mild hybrid or CNG variant later to appeal to economy-conscious buyers.
Pricing & Launch Timeline
Renault is likely to position the new Duster aggressively between ₹12 lakh and ₹18 lakh (ex-showroom). With its bold styling and proven brand appeal, it could quickly reclaim its place as one of the most value-packed SUVs in the market.
Nissan’s Upcoming Mid-Size SUV: The Global Twin
Platform Sharing with Renault
Alongside Renault, Nissan is preparing its own mid-size SUV built on the same CMF-B architecture. This vehicle will be Nissan’s comeback product in India, designed specifically for local conditions while maintaining international quality standards.
The design will be distinct — featuring Nissan’s V-motion grille, sharp LED headlamps, and coupe-like proportions. Spy shots suggest a sportier, more premium approach compared to its Renault counterpart.
Interior & Features
Inside, the Nissan SUV will focus on driver-centric ergonomics, higher-grade materials, and advanced connectivity. Expect:
- A 12-inch infotainment system
- Wireless charging
- Digital cluster
- Premium Bose sound system (top trims)
- 6 airbags, ABS, ESC
- ADAS Level 1 features in select variants
Nissan may also integrate a hybrid powertrain co-developed with Renault, giving it an edge in fuel efficiency and emission norms.
Expected Launch & Price
Nissan’s SUV will likely launch by mid-2026, following the Duster. Pricing is expected in the ₹13 lakh–₹20 lakh range. It will compete directly with the Creta, Seltos, Grand Vitara, and Toyota Hyryder, but with a stronger focus on driving feel and premium tech.
The Battle Ahead: Can Creta Hold Its Crown?
The arrival of these three SUVs will significantly alter the dynamics of the mid-size SUV segment. Hyundai’s Creta still offers immense value — from its 1.5-litre turbo engine and ventilated seats to its refined gearbox and extensive dealer network. But as Tata, Renault, and Nissan step up, consumers will have more options than ever before.
The Sierra’s futuristic design, the Duster’s legendary durability, and Nissan’s global tech infusion together could mark the start of a new era for the Indian SUV buyer — one defined not just by comfort and convenience, but by character and choice.
Conclusion
The Indian SUV market is entering one of its most exciting phases yet. After years of Hyundai Creta’s dominance, the landscape is about to see powerful challengers from homegrown and international brands alike.
Whether it’s the revived Tata Sierra, the muscular Renault Duster, or Nissan’s upcoming global SUV, each brings something fresh to the table. For buyers, this means better design, more features, and stronger competition — exactly what drives innovation in the auto industry.
2026 is shaping up to be the year where the battle for the mid-size SUV crown truly begins.
