Sierra vs Seltos vs Duster vs Kushaq: Mid-size SUV comparison
The last few months sure haven’t been easy for anyone shopping for a midsize SUV, because every time you think you’ve zeroed in on the right model for your needs, out comes a new one. This avalanche of new launches started with the Tata Sierra – an iconic nameplate brought back for a new generation of buyers. Then we got the second-generation Kia Seltos – bigger and better in every way. The Renault Duster also made a comeback to the very segment it started back in 2012. Most recently came the Skoda Kushaq and Volkswagen Taigun (see box) that have been given makeovers for 2026 and beyond. Over the next few pages, we’ll make your job easier by telling you which is the right model for you.
Sierra vs Seltos vs Duster vs Kushaq: Exterior design
Let’s start with the way they look. The Renault Duster, with its class-best 212mm of ground clearance, pronounced cladding, and even functional roof rails, clearly communicates a rugged look. There’s muscle to the design thanks to the shapely bonnet and flared wheel arches, and it does look every bit a new-age Duster. It’s about the same size as the original Duster, which means it’s bang in the middle by today’s midsize SUV class standards.
The Kia Seltos, on the other hand, has grown substantially from Gen 1 to this Gen 2, and is now the longest of the midsize SUVs. It looks particularly substantial in profile, which is where the long wheelbase and 200mm of ground clearance also come into view. A large grille helps with that big SUV look, but the headlights that are split between vertical DRLs and square main units amidst the grille won’t be to all tastes.
It’s the Tata Sierra that draws the most eyeballs. It’s got the SUV-typical upright shape, it’s the widest and tallest model in the segment, and standing proud on its largest-in-class 19-inch wheels, it simply aces road presence. The Sierra also has the longest wheelbase, made possible by pushing the wheels to the extremities. The styling comes together really well, with the wraparound treatment of the rear glasshouse being the standout element.
The Skoda Kushaq is the smallest model here and can’t match the others on road presence. However, it is nicely turned out, and Skoda’s designers have done well to update the look. The Kushaq’s revamped headlights as well as the larger grille with segmented LED DRLs that run through it are stylish, and the redone tail styling with illuminated Skoda lettering give distinction in an era when light bars are almost the norm. And would you agree when I say the Kushaq looks its best in Monte Carlo guise?
Sierra vs Seltos vs Duster vs Kushaq: Interior
Before we talk interiors, you should know that all models featured here are in their top-spec avatars. Into the Duster, and first things first, it’s far removed from the OG Duster, which was always behind the curve in terms of technology. The new one is contemporary with digital dials, a touchscreen neatly angled to the driver, and vibrant ambient lighting. Helping the ambience in the top-spec Iconic Edition is contrast stitching, and there’s also a pretty generous use of gloss materials. Drivers will like the seat for its comfort as well as the view out the windscreen – the sight of the bonnet bulges make you feel you are in something tough. Disappointingly for a car that you’d love to do long journeys in, storage space is limited. The glovebox is tiny, while the door pockets are oddly shaped and can’t comfortably accommodate a one-litre bottle.
You don’t need to spend much time in a Kia Seltos to establish that its cabin is a well-thought-out space. Furthermore, quality is a highlight. Soft-touch surfaces are limited to the dashboard panel only, but the use of different grains and textures, and consistently good fit and finish, make the interior feel special. The two-tone upholstery is a clever mix of light materials on top with darker colours for the lower section (making the seats easier to keep clean). A mesh-like finish for the front headrests is also a unique touch. Front seat comfort is good for average-sized adults, but larger-framed individuals will find shoulder support limited and side bolstering a bit snug. Cushioning is nicely judged, and you’ll also like the view out the windscreen.
It’s the Tata Sierra that immediately delivers the feel of being in a big SUV. The relatively high seating, large seats (they feature adjustable thigh support) and upright pillars do their bit to give you an ego boost every time you get behind the wheel. The Tata interior is also big on wow factor. The three screens and the illumination effect on the steering and climate panels on start up give the Tata some theatre. There’s also a generous use of soft and textured materials, and much of what you touch feels premium. However, elements like the flimsy front door armrests take away from that impression, and the finishing on bits like the wireless charger pad near the centre armrest could be nicer too. Of the other things, toggles for temperature adjustment are good, but touch controls for other climate control functions aren’t easy to use on the go.
The Skoda Kushaq seats you lowest and doesn’t quite convey that SUV feel as well as the others. Skoda has spruced up the interior with newer colours and more features (more on this in a bit). It remains a neatly laid-out space, with chrome detailing on the air-con vents and stylish two-spoke steering lending some premium appeal. You won’t find soft-touch materials in here, though. Something we really like about the Kushaq are its front seats. They comfortably accommodate large-framed individuals and offer great back, shoulder and leg support.
Sierra vs Seltos vs Duster vs Kushaq: Features
To quickly run through features on these SUVs, all feature leatherette upholstery and front-seat ventilation. The Duster and Kushaq offer power adjust for the driver as well as co-driver, while the Seltos and Sierra’s powered driver’s seats get memory settings. All models get panoramic sunroofs, which is a noteworthy upgrade on the Kushaq. It’s the Seltos, Sierra and Duster that offer the added adjustability of dual-zone climate control. However, we found the Kushaq that makes do with a single-zone system to have the strongest AC. Skoda has upgraded the AC compressor, and it’s made a world of a difference. The Kushaq is the only one without an electronic parking brake and, along with the Seltos, also misses out on an onboard air purifier.
In terms of tech features, all models sport digital dials and touchscreen infotainment systems. The Kushaq Monte Carlo’s new 10.25-inch digital dials look best. The Seltos’ instrument panel is largest at 12.3 inches, but themes are limited to colour changes only. Tata also seems to have held back on the Sierra’s 10.25-inch dials, which could have offered more. The Duster’s 10.25-inch unit is nice, but traditionalists will miss a classic two-dial view.
It’s a more even fight when talking touchscreens. All screens are slick to use, but we find the user interface best on the Seltos. A dedicated 5-inch screen for climate control is also part of the package on the Kia, but it feels redundant given nicer-to-use physical buttons are in easy reach. Fully loaded Sierras are unique in the segment, offering a third screen up front dedicated for the passenger. It’s a great way for front passengers to kill time on long commutes, but the absence of a privacy filter makes the screen an unnecessary distraction for the driver. The option to connect Bluetooth headphones to this screen at least takes care of the audio aspect. Talking audio, the Sierra has the most immersive sound system.
Of the other things, you get the best parking cameras on the Tata Sierra and Kia Seltos. The Duster also packs in a 360-degree camera like the other two, but resolution is just okay. The Kushaq only offers a rear-view camera, and image quality is disappointing too.
Sierra vs Seltos vs Duster vs Kushaq: Reat seat experience
You’ll have to make your way past a high door sill to get onto the Duster’s back seat, and once in place, you’ll realise that space is good, but not at par with larger rivals. There’s good knee room and headroom even for six footers, but the seat bolstering isn’t ideal for big-framed individuals. When it’s a full house, you’ll like how comfortably the Duster accommodates three abreast.
The Kia Seltos makes the most of its length to offer great legroom at the back. Average-sized adults will be very comfortable, but tall occupants will find headroom just about adequate. Meanwhile, the raised centre seat also means it’s not the most comfortable experience for the middle-seat passenger. Features-wise, the Seltos does well to pack in rear window sun shades and rear-seat recline adjust.
The Kushaq is the smallest SUV in this competition, and you feel it as much when you’re sat at the back. It simply doesn’t offer the same sense of space as rivals, and seating for three is cramped. However, the Kushaq’s rear seat works well for two occupants, and legroom is actually pretty good. Skoda has also packed in a segment-first rear-seat massage function on the updated Kushaq. You can’t adjust intensity or types of massage as you can on a luxury car, but the pulsing sensations on your back do work well to soothe you.
It’s the Tata Sierra that delivers the most space and comfort at the back. It has the longest wheelbase and is also the tallest, and it really makes good on those dimensions by offering the airiest cabin. The massive panoramic sunroof helps with this impression. Even six footers will find space ample, and should you need more room to stretch out, the front passenger seat can be slid away from the back. A backrest recline adjust (it’s limited in movement) and window sunshades (they don’t cover the full window) are part of the package too.
The back seats on all models split and fold 60:40 for times when you need maximum luggage room. With the seats in their standard position, it’s the Duster that packs in the most luggage. Trouble is, the loading lip is high. The bigger issue is there’s no spare tyre under the boot floor. You only get a puncture repair kit. The Seltos also has a high load lip, and while the boot is deep, height is limited. Luggage room is decent. The Sierra’s luggage area is well shaped and can pack in plenty. Unique among the SUVs here, the Sierra mounts its spare tyre under the body. The Skoda Kushaq’s boot is smallest on paper, but it uses vertical space well.
When it’s time to load luggage, you’ll appreciate the convenience of powered tailgates offered on the Tata Sierra and Renault Duster.
Sierra vs Seltos vs Duster vs Kushaq: Performance
The Skoda Kushaq and Renault Duster are petrol-only models with two turbo-petrol engine options each, while the Kia Seltos and Tata Sierra offer a wider spread of naturally aspirated petrol, turbo-petrol and diesel engines. For this comparison, we’ve considered the most powerful turbo-petrol automatic versions.
The Duster’s 1,333cc turbo-petrol is the smallest engine here, but also the strongest, producing 163hp and 280Nm. The Seltos and Sierra’s 1.5 units make 160hp, while the Kushaq’s 1.5 TSI develops 150hp. There’s a notable spread in kerb weights. The Kushaq is the lightest at 1,322kg, while the Sierra is the heaviest at 1,552kg.
All four are front-wheel drive. The Duster, Kushaq and Seltos use dual-clutch automatics, while the Sierra takes a different approach with a torque-converter gearbox.
On the move, the Duster feels most rugged and adventure-ready. Broken roads barely faze it, and in fact, it almost feels engineered for poor surfaces. The class-best 212mm of ground clearance only adds to confidence. Importantly, the new Duster retains the toughness of the original but adds sophistication. Unlike the old car, there’s no steering kickback over potholes or rough patches. Handling is good too. It corners with grace, and while the steering is light, it has a reassuring on-centre feel.
Performance, however, is a mixed bag. While the Duster has the most power on paper, it doesn’t feel especially eager at low speeds. There’s noticeable turbo lag below 2,000-2,500rpm, and at times you can feel a lurch as the gearbox works around this lag. As speeds build, the engine comes alive with a stronger, freer mid-range. Refinement is excellent, though keen ears will notice a distinct turbo hiss.
The dual-clutch gearbox deserves mention too. Its wet-clutch arrangement (the others are dry-clutch units) feels impressively smooth – almost torque converter-like – but it isn’t as quick-shifting as the others. That relaxed nature reflects in the numbers as well. The Duster is about a second slower to 100kph than the others and also trails in roll-on acceleration, if only by a bit.
The Seltos is quicker on paper but actually masks its performance. Drive in an easygoing manner, and you will like how the Kia builds its speed. It’s very friendly and doesn’t give the impression that you’re driving a fairly powerful vehicle. When you want more, the Seltos delivers its performance in a strong and linear manner. It’s not an outright engaging drive, but handling is tidy, grip levels are good, and the Seltos feels secure at high speeds too. There’s some firmness to the suspension, but it’s not a deal breaker.
Cruising refinement is another strong point. The engine remains quiet, outside noise suppression is excellent, and the cabin feels calm and refined. The weak link is the dual-clutch gearbox. At low speeds, shifts aren’t always smooth, and the transmission can occasionally fumble in traffic. Once speeds rise, though, the DCT settles down nicely and even responds well to inputs at the paddle shifters. Word of advice for anyone keen on the Seltos: get the Seltos CVT if the bulk of your driving is in town.
The Sierra delivers a very different experience. It backs up the feeling of being in a large SUV with a tough build that comes through on bad roads. The Sierra remains composed over broken patches, and bump absorption is really good. However, the 19-inch wheels on top variants do impact ride comfort. Versions with the smaller 18-inch and especially 17-inch wheels ride better still. At highway speeds, the Sierra feels big, heavy and reassuringly planted. Body control is also better than expected for such a tall SUV. The steering is lighter than ideal, but still offers a reasonable sense of connection.
The Sierra’s turbo-petrol and torque-converter combination works well in daily driving. The engine feels responsive low down, and paired with the smooth gearbox, it delivers effortless progress in traffic. Even when driven harder, the Sierra retains its smooth character. It may not feel as urgent as the Kushaq, but outright performance is strong enough. The downside is that the gearbox feels relaxed even when you want aggressive responses. Downshifts aren’t particularly quick, even via the paddle shifters, and there’s also some delay when shifting between drive modes at the gear selector.
The Kushaq will mean different things to different buyers. Some might pass up on it for its relatively small size, while some might actually see its dimensions as a virtue. It is the easiest to drive in city confines, and its DSG gearbox is the best of the dual-clutch units here. There’s a firmness to the suspension that you’ll experience in town, but it smoothens wonderfully at highway speeds.
It’s when speeds build that the Kushaq comes into its element, cementing itself as the SUV to buy for keen driving enthusiasts. The 1.5 TSI feels eager, power delivery is effortless, and the SUV feels genuinely brisk. It’s the quickest to 100kph and also leads in rolling acceleration. Drive with vigour, and you’ll find shifts on the DSG to be quick and particularly rewarding when controlled through the paddles.
Handling is where the Kushaq really shines. It feels tight, agile, and the most engaging of the lot through corners. If you enjoy driving, this is still the SUV that will put the biggest smile on your face.
A useful trick up the Kushaq’s sleeve is cylinder deactivation, which helps efficiency under light loads. It paid off in our tests, too. The Kushaq emerged as the most fuel-efficient SUV here, returning 9.55kpl in the city and 15.29kpl on the highway.
The Seltos came next with 9.27kpl and 14.76kpl, respectively. There was then a noticeable gap to the Duster, which managed 7.47kpl in town and 13.47kpl on the highway, while the heavier Sierra returned a best of 7kpl in the city and 13.7kpl on the highway.
Sierra vs Seltos vs Duster vs Kushaq: Safety
All models comply with the latest Indian crash-test norms, and all have performed remarkably well in their crash tests. The Tata Sierra, Renault Duster and Kia Seltos have been rated five stars by Bharat NCAP, while the Skoda Kushaq is a five-star Global NCAP-rated model. Six airbags, ABS, electronic stability control and ISOFIX child seat mounts are safety features you’ll find on all models. All but the Kushaq also get radar- and camera-based ADAS, or advanced driver-assistance systems with functions like auto emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.
All models do get front and rear disc brakes. In our 80-0kph test, which simulates a panic stop, the Kushaq stopped in the shortest distance, while the Duster took an extra three metres to come to a halt. However, it was the Seltos that didn’t feel as sure-footed as the others in emergency braking.
Sierra vs Seltos vs Duster vs Kushaq: Verdict
Before we sum up, a quick overview of prices. The Renault Duster with the 1.3 turbo-petrol engine and DCT combo has the lowest starting price (Rs 14.49 lakh, ex-showroom) as well as the lowest price (Rs 18.69 lakh) for the fully loaded version featured here. The Skoda Kushaq 1.5 TSI DSG that’s only sold in fully loaded form is just slightly pricier at Rs 18.99 lakh. The Kia Seltos gives most choice, with 7 trim levels for the Turbo DCT (Rs 16.29-20.19 lakh) combo alone. The Tata Sierra Turbo AT starts at Rs 17.99 lakh, but in top-spec form, it is the priciest car of the test, coming in at Rs 20.99 lakh.
We’ll start with the Skoda Kushaq that stands out as the most fun-to-drive midsize SUV. The upgraded AC has also addressed one of the models’ big shortcomings, while it has reduced the gap to others in terms of equipment with the inclusion of a panoramic sunroof. ADAS would have been nice, but at a broader level, what works against the Kushaq (and Taigun) is its price-to-size proposition. In a segment in which like-priced rivals are only getting larger and road presence counts for a lot, the Kushaq’s relatively small size limits its appeal.
The new Renault Duster appeals for the very reasons that the original did. It’s tough, rugged and a vehicle you’d love exploring the country in. At the same time, the new Duster feels more wholesome too thanks to an inviting interior and the latest features. It’s just that when you view the Duster in light of rivals that you’d feel it could have been better still. Fuel efficiency is so-so, low-speed city drives aren’t smoothest, and cabin space is good but not great.
The team at Tata Motors put its heart and soul into the new Sierra, and it shows. The design draws eyeballs, it’s the roomiest midsize SUV, and Tata has gone all out on features too. It’s not particularly sporty even with the turbo-petrol engine, but the smoothness of the powertrain is a highlight. The Sierra’s scorecard takes a big hit when you bring fuel economy into the equation, which is the lowest here. Also as good as the package is, it still can’t match global rivals on final finesse. Tata Motors’ inconsistent service experience could also deter buyers.
The Kia Seltos might not have the same emotional appeal as the Tata, but it delivers where it matters. Its increased size gives the impression you’ve got your money’s worth, and that feeling is only underlined by the premium interior that feels the best put together. The Seltos also scores on space and tech features. The DCT does take away from the drive experience at low speeds, but on the whole, performance, refinement and even efficiency are really good. It’s an all-rounder that you can’t go wrong with, making it our pick of the new midsize SUVs.
from Autocar India https://ift.tt/s1qlBUH
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