Having made a significant impact in the sub-4m SUV niche with the Nexon and the mid-size SUV market with the Harrier and Safari, Tata Motors is now turning its attention to the highly competitive compact SUV category in India, which already boasts nine existing competitors. The upcoming Tata Curvv SUV, currently in testing, signifies the company’s debut in the compact SUV sector.
Tata Curvv: A Modern Coupe-Styled Entry in India’s Compact SUV Market
Tata is approaching the compact SUV market with a coupe-shaped vehicle, similar to how they tackled the sub-4m sedan segment. The earlier spy shots revealed a design camouflaged with a humpback structure to hide the coupe styling, but recent sightings show a sleek coupe-like roofline, providing a modern and distinctive look. The production version of the Tata Curvv resembles the Nexon facelift until the C-pillar, with similar door designs and door panels. However, beyond the C-pillar, the Curvv extends further in length and features a striking coupe roof design, making it unique in the compact SUV segment. The vehicle’s front fascia, including the bonnet, LED DRLs, vertically-arranged LED headlights, and windshield, closely resembles the Nexon.
Regarding the interior, the Tata Curvv is expected to share similarities with the Nexon but may offer additional features, including a panoramic sunroof, a larger 12.3″ touchscreen infotainment system, dual-zone climate control, electrically adjustable and ventilated seats, and ADAS technology.
Tata Curvv: Powertrain Options and Competition in India’s Compact SUV Arena
As for powertrain options, the Tata Curvv may offer the same 1.2L 3-cylinder petrol and 1.5L 4-cylinder diesel engines as the Nexon. Notably, it might introduce Tata’s new 1.5L GDI turbo petrol engine, producing 170 PS and 250 NM of torque. There’s also speculation about a CNG version with a 1.2L engine, and an electric version, given Tata’s history of offering both ICE and EV variants of their vehicles.
Competitors in this segment include the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, VW Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Honda Elevate, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder, and Citroen C3 Aircross. The Curvv’s launch is expected in approximately one year.