Tata Motors, one of India’s most renowned automobile manufacturers, has once again captured the spotlight with the launch of its latest offering, the Tata Curvv. This time, Tata brings the Curvv to the market with internal combustion engine (ICE) options, featuring both petrol and diesel variants. Following the success of the Curvv EV, which was launched just a month ago, Tata is set to make a strong impact in the competitive SUV segment with these new ICE models. Let’s dive into the details of what makes the Tata Curvv ICE a compelling choice for buyers in the market.
Pricing and Variants
The Tata Curvv ICE is offered with competitive introductory pricing, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers looking for a blend of style, performance, and features. The petrol variant starts at ₹9.99 lakh, while the diesel variant begins at ₹11.49 lakh. These introductory prices are valid for bookings made until October 31, 2024, and are expected to increase from November 2024. Additionally, a Dual Clutch Automatic (DCA) variant is available, starting at ₹12.49 lakh. The Curvv ICE is offered in eight different variants, giving customers a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budget.
Price Overview:
- Petrol Variant: Starting at ₹9.99 lakh
- Diesel Variant: Starting at ₹11.49 lakh
- DCA Variant: Starting at ₹12.49 lakh
These prices are ex-showroom, ensuring transparency and ease of comparison for potential buyers. By offering a range of variants, Tata caters to diverse customer needs, whether they prioritize affordability, fuel efficiency, or advanced features. The strategic pricing positions the Curvv ICE as a strong competitor in the mid-size SUV market, providing an affordable yet feature-rich option.
Design: Aesthetic and Functional
The Tata Curvv ICE carries forward the sleek, modern design language seen in its electric counterpart. Built on Tata’s ATLAS platform, both the Curvv EV and ICE variants share a similar design ethos, characterized by a coupe-like silhouette and a sporty yet sophisticated appeal. This design not only enhances the car’s aesthetic value but also its aerodynamic efficiency, contributing to better fuel efficiency and driving dynamics.
Key Exterior Design Features:
- Coupe-Like Silhouette: One of the standout features of the Curvv ICE is its distinctive coupe-like silhouette, a rare feature in the mid-size SUV segment. The sloping roofline not only adds to the vehicle’s visual appeal but also improves its aerodynamic profile, which can lead to better fuel efficiency and handling.
- LED Lighting: Both the front and rear of the Curvv ICE are equipped with full LED lighting. The front features a prominent LED daytime running light (DRL) strip above the grille, enhancing visibility and giving the vehicle a modern, aggressive look. The rear is adorned with connected LED tail lights that provide a seamless lighting design, further enhancing the vehicle’s aesthetic appeal.
- Flush Door Handles and Alloy Wheels: Sleek flush door handles and 18-inch alloy wheels contribute to the Curvv’s clean lines and premium look. The use of flush handles not only adds to the aesthetic but also reduces drag, improving the vehicle’s aerodynamic efficiency. The 18-inch alloy wheels provide a robust stance, complementing the sporty design of the SUV.
- Air Vents and Chrome Accents: Differentiating the ICE version from the EV are the additional air vents and chrome accents on the front grille. These not only provide a functional benefit by improving engine cooling but also add a touch of elegance to the vehicle’s front fascia, making it stand out on the road.
- Color Options: Tata offers the Curvv ICE in six color options: Gold Essence, Pure Grey, Opera Blue, Flame Red, Pristine White, and Daytona Grey. These colors are carefully chosen to reflect the dynamic and youthful personality of the Curvv, allowing buyers to express their personal style.
Interior Design and Features
The interior of the Tata Curvv ICE mirrors the sophistication of its exterior, offering a premium feel and a host of advanced features. Tata Motors has paid meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that the cabin is both comfortable and technologically advanced.
Key Interior Features:
- Dual-Tone Color Scheme: The interior features a dual-tone burgundy and black color scheme, exuding a sense of luxury and refinement. This color palette is complemented by ambient lighting that runs along the length of the dashboard, enhancing the cabin’s premium appeal. The use of high-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces further adds to the luxurious feel of the cabin.
- Steering and Infotainment: A four-spoke steering wheel, similar to the one found in the Tata Harrier, provides a familiar yet modern touch. The Curvv ICE comes equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless connectivity on the go. The infotainment system is positioned to be easily accessible to the driver, minimizing distraction and enhancing convenience.
- Comfort and Convenience: The Curvv ICE offers a range of comfort features, including ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a six-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat. The rear seats also offer a two-step reclining function, ensuring comfort for all passengers. These features make long drives more enjoyable, providing a relaxing environment for both the driver and passengers.
- Audio and Entertainment: A nine-speaker JBL audio system delivers a rich and immersive sound experience, perfect for enjoying music or podcasts during long drives. Additionally, the cabin includes a wireless charging pad, ensuring that your devices are always powered up. The inclusion of multiple USB ports and charging points ensures that all passengers can keep their devices charged, catering to the needs of modern families.
- Storage and Practicality: The Curvv ICE offers ample storage space, with a spacious boot and cleverly designed storage compartments throughout the cabin. The rear seats can be folded down to further increase storage capacity, making the Curvv ICE a practical choice for families and individuals who require versatility in their vehicle.
Engine Options and Performance
Under the hood, the Tata Curvv ICE offers a range of engine options to cater to different driving preferences and needs. There are three engine options available, two of which are turbocharged petrol engines, and one is a diesel engine. This variety ensures that buyers can choose an engine that best suits their driving style and requirements.
Engine Options:
- 1.2-litre Turbo Petrol Engine: This engine option generates 118 bhp and 170 Nm of torque, providing a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It is an ideal choice for city driving and occasional highway trips. The smaller displacement makes it a fuel-efficient option, suitable for daily commutes and urban driving.
- 1.2-litre T-GDI Turbo Petrol Engine: A more powerful option, this brand-new engine delivers 123 bhp and 225 Nm of torque. The T-GDI engine offers enhanced performance, making it suitable for drivers who seek a more spirited driving experience. The increased power and torque make highway driving and overtaking easier, providing a more engaging driving experience.
- 1.5-litre Diesel Engine: The diesel variant produces 116 bhp and 260 Nm of torque, offering robust performance and better fuel economy, making it an excellent option for long-distance travel and those who prioritize efficiency. The high torque output ensures that the vehicle can handle heavy loads and steep inclines with ease, making it a versatile choice for all types of driving conditions.
Transmission Options:
All three engine options are paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT). The availability of a DCT in the diesel variant is a first in this segment, offering a smoother and more responsive driving experience, especially in traffic and on highways. The DCT enhances the driving experience by providing quick gear changes and improving acceleration, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
Safety Features
Safety is a top priority for Tata Motors, and the Curvv ICE is no exception. The vehicle comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect both passengers and pedestrians.
Key Safety Features:
- Six Airbags: Standard across all trims, the Curvv ICE includes six airbags, providing all-around protection for the driver and passengers in the event of a collision. The airbags are strategically placed to cover both the front and rear occupants, ensuring maximum safety.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): ESC helps maintain vehicle stability by detecting and reducing loss of traction, ensuring that the vehicle remains under control even in challenging driving conditions. This feature is particularly useful in preventing skids and rollovers, enhancing overall vehicle safety.
- 360-Degree Camera System: The Curvv ICE features a 360-degree camera system that provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier and safer. The camera system is complemented by parking sensors, providing audible warnings to prevent collisions.
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): TPMS continuously monitors the air pressure in the tires, alerting the driver to any issues that could compromise safety and vehicle performance. Maintaining optimal tire pressure is crucial for safe handling and maximizing fuel efficiency.
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Higher trims of the Curvv ICE are equipped with Level 2 ADAS features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help prevent accidents and reduce the severity of potential collisions, making driving safer and more convenient.
The Curvv ICE comes with an electronic parking brake and auto hold feature, enhancing convenience and safety when parked on inclines. The auto hold function prevents the vehicle from rolling back, making it easier to start on steep slopes.
Rivals and Market Positioning
TATA Curve looks cool,
— Ripudaman (@mrtechsense) July 19, 2024
but not a fan of those alloy wheels.
And the 3-cylinder engine is still far behind Creta/seltos counterparts!#Tatacurvv pic.twitter.com/QWVvFZClAe
The Tata Curvv ICE enters a highly competitive segment, taking on established players like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Honda Elevate, MG Astor, Skoda Kushaq, Toyota Hyryder, and Volkswagen Taigun. Each of these competitors offers its own set of strengths, whether it be design, features, or brand value.
Competitive Comparison:
- Hyundai Creta: Known for its premium features and advanced technology, the Hyundai Creta is a strong competitor in the segment. It offers a variety of engine options and a high level of comfort and convenience features.
- Kia Seltos: The Kia Seltos stands out with its stylish design and feature-rich interiors. It offers a range of engine options and advanced safety features, making it a popular choice among buyers.
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara: The Grand Vitara offers a robust engine lineup and a reputation for reliability. It provides a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for many buyers.
- Honda Elevate: The Honda Elevate is known for its spacious interiors and strong performance. It offers a comfortable driving experience and a range of features that appeal to family buyers.
- MG Astor: The MG Astor is equipped with advanced technology and safety features, offering a modern and connected driving experience. It provides a range of engine options and a stylish design.
- Skoda Kushaq: The Skoda Kushaq is appreciated for its build quality and driving dynamics. It offers a range of engine options and a premium feel, making it a strong competitor in the segment.
- Toyota Hyryder: The Toyota Hyryder is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. It offers a practical and well-rounded driving experience, appealing to those seeking a dependable SUV.
- Volkswagen Taigun: The Volkswagen Taigun offers a sporty design and a strong performance. It provides a range of features and a premium feel, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
The Tata Curvv ICE distinguishes itself with its unique coupe-like design, advanced technology features, and a variety of engine options, including a DCT option for the diesel variant. Its competitive pricing and diverse range of variants make it a strong contender in the mid-size SUV market, offering a compelling alternative to established players.
Conclusion: A Game-Changer in the Making
With the launch of the Tata Curvv ICE, Tata Motors has once again demonstrated its ability to innovate and adapt to market demands. The Curvv ICE offers a compelling package that combines modern design, advanced technology, and a variety of powertrain options, making it a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. Its competitive pricing further enhances its appeal, making it accessible to a wide range of customers.
Why the Tata Curvv ICE Stands Out:
- Innovative Design: The coupe-like silhouette and modern design elements set the Curvv ICE apart from its competitors. Its sleek appearance and aerodynamic efficiency make it a standout choice in the SUV segment.
- Advanced Technology: The Curvv ICE is equipped with a range of advanced technology features, including a large touchscreen infotainment system, wireless connectivity, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. These technologies enhance the driving experience and provide added convenience.
- Versatile Engine Options: With a variety of engine options, including petrol, diesel, and DCT variants, the Curvv ICE caters to different driving preferences and needs. Whether you prioritize performance, efficiency, or a combination of both, the Curvv ICE has an option for you.
- Comfort and Convenience: The Curvv ICE offers a range of comfort features, including ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced audio systems. These features ensure a pleasant and enjoyable driving experience for both the driver and passengers.
- Safety and Reliability: Tata Motors has prioritized safety with the inclusion of multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and advanced driver assistance systems. These features provide peace of mind and enhance overall vehicle safety.
As Tata continues to push the boundaries of automotive design and technology, the Curvv ICE is poised to become a game-changer in the Indian market. Whether you are looking for a stylish, feature-rich SUV for urban commuting or a reliable vehicle for long-distance travel, the Tata Curvv ICE offers something for everyone. With deliveries set to begin from September 12, 2024, customers can look forward to experiencing the next level of SUV driving with the Tata Curvv ICE.
In summary, the Tata Curvv ICE is not just a car; it’s a statement of style, innovation, and value. It promises to redefine the driving experience for Indian consumers, setting new standards in the SUV segment. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned SUV enthusiast, the Tata Curvv ICE is definitely worth considering. Its blend of modern design, advanced features, and competitive pricing makes it a standout choice in the ever-evolving automotive landscape.