Tata introduced the Curvv as its unique take on the midsize SUV space in 2024. Currently, it is one of the two coupe-SUV models in this heavily contested segment. Built on Tata’s ATLAS platform, the Curvv slots between the compact Nexon and the newer, traditional-looking Sierra in the brand’s SUV line-up. If you’re interested in the Curvv, below are the reasons to consider it, as well as reasons to look elsewhere.
Reasons to buy
Good ride and handling balance
Like other Tata models, which are known to have a good balance of ride and handling, the Curvv is no different. It feels tough and takes on broken road patches with ease. Low-speed ride may feel a bit stiff, but it smooths out as you increase speed. Where the Curvv does feel at home is at highway speeds, with composed and mature road manners. Body roll when cornering is also kept well in check, and the steering is precise.
Diverse powertrain offerings
The Curvv is one of the models with a very diverse powertrain line-up in its segment. It is available with three engine options: a 120hp, 170Nm 1.2-litre turbo-petrol, a 118hp, 260Nm 1.5-litre diesel, and a 125hp, 225Nm 1.2-litre direct-injection turbo-petrol. While some SUVs are available with only a manual or an automatic gearbox with a particular engine, Tata offers the choice of both; each of its engines can be mated to a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT.
Well-equipped feature list
Tata has packed the Curvv with a long list of features. Not only does it come with tech such as a 12.3-inch infotainment display, a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an air purifier, a wireless phone charger and a 9-speaker JBL sound system, but it also offers several creature comforts, including a powered driver’s seat, front-seat ventilation, passive ventilation for the rear seats, a panoramic sunroof, rear window sunshades, dual-zone air conditioning and more. It’s well equipped on the safety front as well, with Level 2 ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems), a 360-degree camera, blind-spot detection and an auto-dimming interior rearview mirror (IRVM).
Large boot space
The Curvv’s boot space is one of the largest in its segment. There’s plenty of room for luggage, thanks to a capacity of 500 litres, which can be expanded further by folding the 60:40 split rear seat.
Reasons to skip
Limited rear headroom
While passengers at the back have adequate legroom, the Curvv’s coupe-SUV roofline limits headroom. Though the seat can recline and the headliner is scooped out to help ease things, taller passengers will still find the headroom tight. Additionally, the middle rear seat misses a dedicated headrest, hindering overall comfort.
Inconsistent fit and finish, ergonomic cabin flaws
While the quality of materials is acceptable, certain areas of the cabin aren’t finished to a tee, which is a common issue with Tata models. While there are cup holders at the front, they are placed in the glove box, making them unusable. Additionally, the 12V socket is hard to reach, as it is placed in a recessed space ahead of the gear lever; the front centre armrest is too small and doesn’t slide, while the storage space below it is suitable only for small items.
Snappy clutch (manual gearbox)
While shifting gears with the manual gearbox is smooth enough, the snappy behaviour of the clutch pedal and long gear throws take away from overall driver involvement. Furthermore, the gear lever is odd to look at and hold.