The mid-size SUV segment has become a battleground for engine performance, with Tata’s new 1.5-litre TGDi Hyperion petrol engine in the Sierra taking on established rivals from Hyundai and Volkswagen. The Hyperion engine boasts impressive technical specifications, matching Hyundai’s Turbo GDi engine with 158bhp and claiming the highest peak torque of 255Nm in its class. The torque band is also broad, spanning 1,750-4,000rpm, which should provide linear acceleration and smooth power delivery.
In comparison, Volkswagen’s 1.5 TSI EVO engine, which powers the Taigun, produces 150bhp and 250Nm, slightly less than the competition. However, it features cylinder deactivation technology, which improves real-world fuel economy by shutting down two cylinders under low load conditions. This makes it an attractive option for buyers who prioritize performance and mileage.
Hyundai’s 1.5-litre Turbo GDi engine, found in the Creta, has already proven itself with strong performance and effortless drivability. Volkswagen’s 1.5-litre TSI engine in the Taigun has also set a high benchmark for powertrain refinement and smoothness. For the Sierra to stand out, its Hyperion engine will need to match or surpass these established players in terms of refinement, power delivery, and overall driving experience, particularly when paired with the six-speed torque converter automatic transmission.
While the Hyperion engine’s specifications look promising on paper, its real-world performance remains to be seen. The key areas to watch will be its refinement, power delivery, and overall smoothness, which will be crucial in defining its appeal to buyers. If the Sierra’s powertrain can deliver on its promises, it could potentially shake up the mid-size SUV segment and give established rivals a run for their money. Ultimately, the battle for supremacy in this segment will be decided by which engine can provide the best combination of performance, efficiency, and driving experience.