At the recent Bharat Mobility Show, Tata Motors revealed the production version of its highly anticipated Tata Curvv. Breaking the mold in the midsize SUV segment, Tata Motors showcased the Curvv equipped with a 1.5-litre diesel engine borrowed from its successful Nexon model. This move positions the Curvv as a compelling alternative to the established players like the Creta/Seltos, Grand Vitara/Hyryder, Kushaq/Taigun, and Astor, while significantly broadening the diesel offerings in this competitive segment.
Distinctive Design and Diesel Power: Setting the Curvv Apart
Beyond its striking coupe-SUV design, the inclusion of a diesel powertrain sets the Curvv apart from its rivals. While many contenders in this segment have forgone diesel options, the Curvv’s diesel engine provides consumers with a unique choice. With a power output comparable to its competitors, the Curvv boasts a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine delivering 115hp and a torque of 260Nm, slightly edging out the Creta/Seltos with its 10Nm torque advantage.
Comparative Specifications: Curvv Diesel vs. Rivals
| Curvv Diesel | Creta/Seltos Diesel | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5-litre turbo-diesel | 1.5-litre turbo-diesel |
| Power | 115hp | 116hp |
| Torque | 260Nm | 250Nm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed MT | 6-speed MT, 6-speed AT |
While the Curvv currently offers a 6-speed manual transmission, Tata Motors may introduce a 6-speed AMT gearbox, akin to the one utilized in the Nexon. In contrast, the Creta and Seltos boast more sophisticated torque converter automatics, providing a potentially smoother driving experience.
Performance and Emissions Compliance
Despite its larger dimensions compared to the Nexon, the Curvv maintains the same engine specifications. This is attributed to the engine’s compliance with BS6.2 emissions standards, achieved through a cost-effective passive SCR emissions control system. Any significant increase in power output would necessitate more costly emissions hardware or risk non-compliance with emissions norms.
Diesel Demand in Midsize SUVs
While the market has shown a growing preference for petrol engines, diesel variants continue to command a substantial share in sales. Kia’s recent milestone of surpassing 1 lakh bookings for the facelifted Seltos highlights the demand, with 42 percent of buyers opting for diesel variants. Similarly, diesel models of the Creta consistently contributed over 40 percent of sales for the pre-facelift model, indicating a robust demand for diesel-powered midsize SUVs.
Multi-Powertrain Strategy: A Competitive Advantage
In addition to the diesel variant, the Curvv will offer petrol and electric powertrains, with the potential inclusion of a CNG option. This multi-powertrain approach is expected to give the Curvv a competitive edge in the segment, akin to the success seen with the Nexon, further broadening consumer choice and solidifying Tata Motors’ position in the midsize SUV market.
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