Lifestyle Motoring

Tata to launch two new SUVs in South Africa in 2026: Here's what to expect

Jason Woosey|Published

The Nexon will cement Tata's fight in the compact SUV market.

Image: Supplied

Tata is set to continue its South African reboot with the launch of two brand-new SUV models in 2026.

Motus, which represents the Indian brand in South Africa, has confirmed that the Nexon and Sierra models will be joining the local line-up, which includes the Tiago, Punch, Curvy and Harrier.

Tata Nexon

The Nexon could easily become the brand’s best-seller as it fits right into the heart of the compact SUV market. At 3,995mm in length, it is larger than the Punch but shorter than the Curvv.

The Nexon is a shade under four metres in length.

Image: Supplied

Local specifications will be revealed closer to launch. In its home market, the Nexon is offered with a choice of 1.2-litre turbopetrol (88kW and 170Nm) and 1.5-litre turbodiesel (84kW and 260Nm) turbodiesel engines, which power the front wheels.

Local pricing is also yet to be confirmed, but in India, the vehicle slots firmly beneath the Curvv, which starts at R349,900 in South Africa.

The cabin has some interesting colour schemes.

Image: Supplied

The local model is expected to feature six airbags as well as ESP stability control, and the Nexon has received a five-star Global NCAP safety rating.

Tata Sierra

Boasting a distinctive design that breaks the mould somewhat, the Sierra is expected to bridge the gap between the Curvv and the larger Harrier.

The new Tata Sierra is on the cards for South Africa.

Image: Supplied

The Sierra is powered by a new-generation 1.5-litre turbopetrol engine, which produces around 126kW and 280Nm, Autocar India reports. A 1.5-litre turbodiesel and a normally aspirated 1.5 petrol engine are also expected to become available, and an all-electric version is said to be in the planning.

Its bold exterior design is a breath of fresh air for the SUV market.

Image: Supplied

The interior of the new Tata Sierra was designed to mimic the airy and futuristic appearance of the exterior, with three screens stretching across the dashboard beneath a single panel and a large panoramic sunroof bathing the cabin in light.

The interior has three screens embedded into a single panel.

Image: Supplied

The vehicle will also be offered with powered front seats, rear sunshades, a 360-degree camera and Level-2 ADAS driver assistance systems.

As with the Nexon, South African details will be announced closer to launch.

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