Top 5 Most Powerful Mid-Sized SUVs - Renault Duster No.1, Tata Sierra

The mid-size SUVs in India have long been preferred for their size, space, features and fuel efficiency. But with the return of the Renault Duster nameplate, the focus is now shifting towards the raw performance. Not just the Duster, multiple mid-sized SUVs are offered with powerful turbo petrol engines and claimed to offer spirited performance. We look at the top five mid-size SUVs with the most powerful engines in India -

Renault Duster

The new-gen Duster is the most powerful mid-sized SUV in the country. It is powered by a 1.3-litre, 4-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine that produces 163hp and 250Nm of torque, and is paired to a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic and 6-speed manual gearbox. Not just the regular petrol, its hybrid engine is also the most powerful. The Duster hybrid is scheduled to be launched by October 2026. It will get a 1.8L GDI petrol engine with dual-motor setup and a 1.4kWh battery pack, and offers a combined power and torque output of 160hp and 205Nm, respectively. 

Tata Sierra

The new Sierra debuts the brand’s new 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine that also powers the Safari and Harrier. This turbo petrol engine is capable of producing 158bhp and 255Nm of torque. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic unit. The stock Tata Sierra 1.5L turbo version is claimed to achieve a top speed of 190kmph; however, it achieved a top speed of 222kmph at NATRAX.

Hyundai Creta & Kia Saltos

The Hyundai Creta and the Kia Seltos are powered by a 1.5L T-GDi petrol engine that churns out 157.5bhp and 253Nm of torque. The engine is paired to either a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic and a 6-speed manual gearbox. This engine offers smooth power and superior refinement. Adding to it, the powertrain offers healthy mileage on freeways. 

VW Taigun & Skoda Kushaq

The German duo gets a tried & tested 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder, TSI petrol engine paired to a 7-speed DSG. This engine is capable of producing 148bhp and 250Nm of torque. In terms of power, the 1.5L TSI sits last in the category. However, the engine is benchmark when it comes to refinement and performance. It also gets Active Cylinder Technology, which automatically shuts two cylinders under a low load and improves fuel efficiency.

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