Tata Curvv Review: What We Liked & Disliked After Spending 1500 Kilometers with the Petrol Manual
If you’re in the market for a compact SUV that strikes a balance between sporty aesthetics and practical usability, the Tata Curvv is definitely on your radar. After spending 1,500 kilometers with the petrol manual variant, I’ve gathered enough insights to help you consider whether this model fits your lifestyle.
First Impressions: A Bold Design
The Tata Curvv certainly doesn’t shy away from making a statement. As I approached it for the first time, the sleek silhouette and bold front fascia caught my eye. The standout LED daytime running lights and signature Tata grille give it a contemporary and aggressive look. This design language is refreshing and places the Curvv among its rivals like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos.
Comfort and Interior: Stylish Yet Functional
Stepping inside, the Curvv continues to impress. The spacious cabin is adorned with high-quality materials that don’t feel out of place in a higher segment. The dual-tone dashboard is elegantly designed, exuding a modern vibe. The infotainment system is user-friendly, featuring a crisp touchscreen that responds swiftly to inputs—a must-have for any tech-savvy buyer.
What really stands out for me, though, is the seating comfort. The front seats are well-cushioned, providing ample support for long drives. The rear seats didn’t disappoint either, offering generous legroom and headroom—perfect for family road trips or long commutes. It comfortably seats three adults at the back, although a fourth might feel a bit cramped.
Driving Experience: Zippy and Fun
Now let’s talk about the heart of the Curvv—the driving experience. The 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine delivers a punchy 125 bhp, which is more than sufficient for city commutes and highway cruising alike. The manual gearbox is smooth, allowing for easy shifts whether navigating through traffic or overtaking on the highway.
During my stint, I took the Curvv on a weekend getaway to the hills. And I must say, the engine’s responsiveness was a joy to handle on those winding roads. It held its ground while scaling inclines, and the ride quality remained notably composed. Tata claims a mileage of around 17 km/l, and I found it quite close, achieving about 15 km/l overall—definitely respectable for a petrol SUV.
Safety Features: More than Just Show
Tata has always had a strong reputation when it comes to safety, and the Curvv upholds that legacy. With features like six airbags, ABS with EBD, and electronic stability control, it instills a sense of security during drives. I appreciated the presence of a rear parking camera, which added an extra layer of confidence while maneuvering in tight city spaces.
Technology & Connectivity: A Mixed Bag
The Curvv is equipped with a decent entertainment system, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, I encountered some connectivity issues while using my phone for navigation. It would frequently drop the connection or lose the GPS signal. A firmware update might resolve this, but it’s something to keep an eye on if you rely heavily on in-car navigation.
What We Liked and Disliked
Pros:
- Striking Design: Engaging aesthetics that stand out in the segment.
- Comfortable Interior: Spacious and well-designed cabin, ideal for families.
- Impressive Performance: Powerful engine with a smooth manual gearbox.
- Solid Safety Features: Advanced safety technology providing peace of mind.
Cons:
- Infotainment Glitches: Occasional connectivity issues can be frustrating.
- Fuel Economy: While reasonable, rivals like the Creta offer slightly better mileage.
- Limited Boot Space: While spacious inside, the boot could be roomier for larger families or longer trips.
Pricing Clarity: Getting Good Value
The Tata Curvv starts at approximately INR 10 lakhs for the petrol manual variant, going up based on the chosen features. Considering the build quality, safety, and overall performance, it offers a fair value proposition compared to its competitors. It’s essential to weigh the pricing against your requirements—if you prioritize safety and design, the Curvv may well justify its cost.
Final Thoughts: Who Is It For?
After my extensive time with the Tata Curvv, it’s clear that this is a vehicle aimed at young professionals and families seeking a blend of style, safety, and performance. It’s not without its flaws, but the positives outweigh them for many buyers looking for a versatile compact SUV.
If you’re someone who enjoys driving, appreciates modern aesthetics, and places importance on safety, the Tata Curvv is worth a test drive. Gear up for a blend of excitement and practicality, and who knows? You might just find your next favorite ride.

Utsav is an automobile enthusiast and auto news writer with 2+ years of experience in the Indian car industry. He has covered major launches, done detailed car reviews, and follows trends in the EV segment.