The midsize SUV segment is heating up with the introduction of two new contenders—the Citroen Basalt and the Tata Curvv. Both vehicles aim to carve out their own niche with distinctive body styles and competitive pricing, making them direct rivals in this fiercely contested market. While the Citroen Basalt has grabbed headlines with its aggressive starting price of Rs 7.99 lakh, the Tata Curvv is drawing attention for its segment-first features and diverse powertrain options. Let’s compare these two on paper to see which one has the edge.
Dimensions
| Specification | Tata Curvv | Citroen Basalt |
|---|---|---|
| Length (mm) | 4308 | 4352 |
| Width (mm) | 1810 | 1765 |
| Height (mm) | 1630 | 1593 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2560 | 2651 |
| Tyre size | 215/55 R18 | 205/60 R16 |
| Fuel tank (litres) | 44 | 45 |
| Boot capacity (litres) | 500 | 470 |
When it comes to dimensions, the Tata Curvv is 45mm wider and 37mm taller than the Citroen Basalt, which could translate to better shoulder and headroom. However, the Basalt is 44mm longer overall and boasts a 91mm longer wheelbase, potentially offering more rear-seat legroom. While both SUVs have similar fuel tank capacities, the Curvv stands out with its larger boot space and bigger wheels.
Powertrains
| Specification | Tata Curvv Revotron | Tata Curvv Hyperion | Citroen Basalt Puretech 82 | Citroen Basalt Puretech 110 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.2L, 3-cyl, turbo | 1.2L, 3-cyl, direct injection turbo | 1.2L, 3-cyl | 1.2L, 3-cyl, turbo |
| Power | 120hp | 125hp | 82hp | 110hp |
| Torque | 170Nm | 225Nm | 115Nm | 190-205Nm |
| Manual gearbox | 6-speed | 6-speed | 5-speed | 6-speed |
| Automatic gearbox | 7-speed dual-clutch | 7-speed dual-clutch | – | 6-speed torque converter |
Both the Tata Curvv and Citroen Basalt offer two petrol engine options. Tata provides two turbocharged petrol units, while Citroen offers a naturally aspirated engine alongside a turbocharged one. On paper, the Curvv has the advantage, with its engines delivering higher output across the board. The Basalt’s 82hp engine is paired with a manual gearbox only, whereas the Curvv offers a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic with both its petrol engines. Additionally, the Curvv’s direct injection turbo-petrol engine is the most powerful of the lot.
Tata further expands the Curvv’s appeal with a diesel engine option and an all-electric version priced between Rs 17.49 lakh and Rs 21.99 lakh. Meanwhile, the Citroen Basalt’s entry-level price undercuts its rivals by over Rs 1 lakh, making it an attractive proposition for budget-conscious buyers.
Conclusion
The Citroen Basalt and Tata Curvv each bring unique strengths to the table. The Basalt’s competitive pricing and spacious rear seat could attract many buyers, while the Curvv’s superior powertrains, larger dimensions, and additional options make it a formidable competitor. With Citroen set to reveal the full price list later this month and Tata announcing prices for the petrol and diesel Curvv on September 2, the final verdict will depend on a real-world comparison. However, on paper, the Tata Curvv appears to have the upper hand.
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