The Tata Sierra AWD has once again been spotted testing under heavy camouflage. The latest spy shots show the upcoming ICE-powered Sierra AWD test mule being tested in high-altitude conditions, with the SUV’s exterior details still hidden under the camouflage.
Join Our Youtube Channel to stay updated with daily Indian car & bike news instantly!
Tata Motors has already confirmed that an AWD version of the ICE Sierra is in development and will be introduced in early 2027. However, the company has not yet revealed the exact engine, gearbox, and AWD system technical specifications of this version.
Also Read: Upcoming Tata Cars: 5 New Models Coming to India in 2026-27
What was seen in the spy shots?
The latest images show the Sierra test mule with a heavy black-and-white camouflage wrap. The rear profile shows a connected-looking tail-lamp treatment, an upright tailgate, and squared-off SUV proportions despite the camouflage.
The side profile clearly shows large wheel arches, a prominent shoulder line, and an upright body structure. The front-quarter image shows the Sierra’s broad hood, slim lighting elements, and upright front-end design peeking out from under the camouflage.
Depending on the testing location and conditions, this could be part of a high-altitude validation program. In high-altitude areas like Leh, a vehicle’s drivetrain, cooling, performance, and durability can be evaluated under challenging conditions.
Also Read: 2026 Tata Tigor Facelift Spotted Testing: Big Changes Coming?
Tata Sierra AWD: Which Engine Will We Get?
The biggest unanswered question is its engine and transmission combination.
The current ICE Sierra is available with 1.5-liter petrol and diesel powertrains. Tata’s 1.5-liter TGDi Hyperion turbo-petrol engine produces 160bhp and 255Nm, while the 1.5-liter diesel develops 118bhp and up to 280Nm, depending on the transmission configuration.
However, Tata has not yet confirmed which of these engines will be used in the AWD version. Therefore, it would not be correct to consider any specific engine as the confirmed powertrain for the Sierra AWD at this time.
When will the Tata Sierra AWD launch?
Tata Motors has confirmed an early 2027 timeline for the ICE Sierra AWD. Latest testing activity indicates that the development program is continuing, but an exact launch date has not yet been announced.
The Sierra’s ARGOS architecture has been developed to accommodate multiple powertrain configurations, including mechanical AWD applications. This architecture makes it possible to add all-wheel-drive capability to the ICE Sierra.
Also Read: Tata Curvv Series X Launched: Prices Start At Rs 10 Lakh, Dark Edition Expanded
Sierra EV Already Gets AWD
Before the AWD version of the ICE Sierra, Tata also introduced all-wheel-drive technology in the electric Sierra. The Sierra.ev’s QWD dual-motor setup produces 306 PS and 504 Nm, while Tata markets it as an intelligent all-wheel-drive system.
The ICE Tata Sierra AWD setup will obviously be different, so the Sierra.ev’s powertrain figures should not be directly compared with the upcoming petrol/diesel AWD version.
Auto India Daily Verdict
The latest spy shots clearly indicate that the Tata Sierra AWD testing program is ongoing, and high-altitude testing could be an important part of the upcoming SUV’s development. Tata has confirmed an early 2027 launch timeline, but details on the engine, gearbox, and final AWD hardware will have to be awaited.
Spy Shot Credit: @monubhardwaj066 / Auto Rush With Ruchesh
Also Read: New-Gen Tata Nexon Spotted Testing: What’s New in Design and Features?
Raj Prajapati is a Senior Automotive Content Writer at AutoIndiaDaily. A B.Tech graduate in Computer Science and Engineering, he leverages over four years of experience covering Indian car and bike launches, EV tech, and market dynamics to break down complex automotive regulations into simple consumer guides. Specialising in Indian motor vehicle laws, IRDAI updates, and ownership costs, Raj translates technical auto policies into actionable advice for everyday drivers.