Tata Curvv

The Curvv debuts Tata’s ATLAS platform, which can even take on 4x4 SUVs. It measures 4,308mm long, 1,810mm wide, and 1,630mm tall with a 2,560mm wheelbase – the shortest in the segment. The 500-litre boot and 208mm ground clearance are highlights, along with stylish 18-inch alloys and a full-size spare.

Its concept-like design stands out with flush door handles, piano black cladding, and a sharply raked roofline. The front end differs from the EV with a functional grille and altered bumpers, while the rear gets a full-width light bar and silver faux skid plate. However, visibility is poor due to the raked rear and it lacks a rear wiper.

The cabin feels premium with burgundy leatherette upholstery (variant-dependent). The dashboard is from the Nexon but uses unique textures. Screens are a strong point – the 12.3-inch touchscreen is slick and responsive, while the digital cluster is sharp but displays some info too small.

HVAC controls are touch-based with physical toggles, though prone to fingerprints. Front seats are comfortable and ventilated, with electric adjustability for the driver. Rear space improves over the EV thanks to more under-thigh support, but headroom is tight for taller passengers. It’s not ideal for three adults.

Storage is a mixed bag: front cupholders are oddly placed in the glovebox, there's none in the centre console, and the front armrest is small and non-adjustable.

We tested the 125hp, TGDi petrol and the 118hp, diesel. The petrol feels refined and eager but has turbo lag under 2,000rpm. It hit 0-100kph in 11.96 seconds – respectable, but not thrilling. The 6-speed manual is smooth but has long throws and a notchy clutch.

The 1.5-litre diesel (260Nm) pairs with a segment-first 7-speed DCT, offering smooth shifts, though it can feel jerky at low speeds. Paddle shifters are included, but upshifts still happen early. It clocked 0-100kph in 12.34 seconds and is quicker than the Seltos diesel-AT. Drive modes (City, Eco, Sport) adjust throttle and steering response mildly.

In our tests, the GDi petrol manual returned 8.4kpl (city) and 12.77kpl (highway), while the diesel DCT managed 11.15kpl and 17.23kpl respectively.

The Curvv feels solid and handles rough roads well. Low-speed ride is a bit stiff, but improves with speed. Body roll is well controlled, and the steering is sharp but heavy in Sport mode. Braking is strong, thanks to disc brakes all around.

The Curvv is loaded: ambient lighting (including around the panoramic sunroof), a JBL audio system, air purifier, ventilated front seats, wireless charger, and a segment-first powered tailgate. It gets Level 2 ADAS – effective but not perfect. Blind view monitor and a crisp 360-degree camera are standout safety features.

Safety kit includes 6 airbags, ESP, ISOFIX, and more, with top variants adding TPMS, electronic parking brake, and auto headlamps/wipers. Tata’s iRA app also offers connected car functions.

With 34 variants, prices range from ₹10 lakh to ₹19.33 lakh (ex-showroom). Warranty is 3 years/1,00,000km. The Curvv stands out with its design, strong features list, and decent powertrain options. However, limited rear-seat space and fit-finish flaws keep it from being a true Creta rival. Think of it more as a “Nexon+” or “Creta–” – a stylish alternative with competitive pricing.