From Tata Sierra to Renault Duster: Auto majors gear up for iconic SUV comebacks

Tata Sierra

Two of India’s most recognisable SUV nameplates, Tata Sierra and Renault Duster, are gearing up for a comeback, signalling a strong revival of automotive nostalgia in the country’s fast-evolving SUV market.

Homegrown major Tata Motors will reintroduce the Sierra on November 25, while Renault India has confirmed that the new-generation Duster will be officially unveiled on January 26, 2026. Both models, once segment-defining products, are returning with modern designs, updated powertrains, and connected technology, aiming to blend legacy with contemporary appeal.

The Tata Sierra, which originally debuted in the 1990s, will be positioned below the Harrier in Tata’s SUV portfolio. The upcoming version retains the signature wraparound rear glass from the original but adopts new design elements such as LED lightbars, flush door handles, and large alloy wheels.

Inside, the SUV is expected to feature a three-screen dashboard setup, panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, and a Level 2 ADAS suite. The model will launch first with an internal combustion engine (ICE), with an electric version planned for a later stage — aligning with Tata’s expanding EV portfolio.

Meanwhile, Renault’s Duster, first introduced in 2012, was among the early models to popularize compact SUVs in India. The new Duster will be the first product under Renault’s “International Game Plan 2027”, part of its renewed focus on the Indian market. It will build on the rugged and practical appeal of the original, updated with a modern platform, improved performance, and new technology.

Announcing the revival, Renault Group India CEO Stéphane Deblaise said the new Duster will build on the legacy of the original while incorporating modern design, new technology, and improved performance.

As automakers bring back legacy models like the Tata Sierra and Renault Duster, industry experts say nostalgia is emerging as a powerful tool to rebuild emotional connection with Indian consumers.

According to Lloyd Mathias, Business Strategist and Independent Director, “The Duster launched back in 2012 kicked off the compact SUV in India. By reviving a long gone model, Renault is reminding Indian consumers about their first tryst with an SUV.”

“They are reviving the Duster legacy, its early impact, the community of drivers and the ‘adventure’ identity, to create an emotional bond with consumers,” he added.

On Tata Motors’ upcoming Sierra, Mathias said, “The 90’s era Sierra holds cult status being among the earliest premium SUVs. Tata Motors are leveraging the emotional recall by blending its 1990’s charm with modern design, advanced technology and both EV and ICE options. For younger buyers, nostalgia becomes a kind of heritage story.”

He further explained how nostalgia helps automakers balance legacy with modern relevance. “The pairing nostalgia of old + new helps build identity. You get the legacy (iconic car, trusted name) plus modern tech/features, so you’re not giving up on relevance.”

“Nostalgia in the auto sector works when a vehicle has had meaningful impact previously (either culturally, socially, or in the market) and the brand can signal continuity (through name, styling cues, heritage) while also delivering modern relevance (tech, features),” Mathias said.