Tata Motors has boldly entered one of the most competitive segments of the Indian automobile market by launching a coupe SUV, and notably, an all-electric model as its first iteration. Introducing the Curvv EV, which faces direct competition only from the MG ZS EV. As India’s leading EV manufacturer, the company is challenging conventional wisdom with a daring approach.
Echoing Mark Zuckerberg’s sentiment, “The biggest risk is not taking any risk at all…,” we took the Curvv EV for a spin from the narrow streets of Udaipur to the serpentine paths of Rayta Hill to discover if it’s more than just a pretty face.
Tata Curvv EV Review: How is it to drive?
The Curvv EV offers two battery variants: 45 kWh and 55 kWh. The 55 kWh version delivers 166 bhp, while the 45 kWh provides 148 bhp. However, both produce the same torque of 215 Nm. Similar to the Nexon EV, the Curvv EV features three driving modes: Eco, City, and Sport. We tested the top-tier 55 kWh model.
The crucial aspect is the 215 Nm of torque, which ensures that when you accelerate, it doesn’t jolt you back into the seat, nor does the car’s raw power overwhelm the driver. The Curvv EV’s acceleration is steady, which is beneficial, especially for those new to EVs who might not expect the immediate response of the vehicle, unlike the lag in an internal combustion engine. For added excitement, engaging Sport mode delivers a thrilling, launch pad-like acceleration. Tata Motors states that the 55 kWh model achieves 0 – 100 kmph in 8.6 seconds, while the 45 kWh model takes 9 seconds.
The Curvv EV features a four-spoke steering wheel, similar to the Harrier and Safari, providing decent heft without compromising the driving experience. Equipped with paddle shifters, the Curvv EV offers four regenerative braking options to enhance its efficiency. It performs well in slow-moving traffic, navigating with ease. Thanks to its low centre of gravity, the Curvv EV remains stable around corners, and despite its weight, it experiences less body roll compared to other traditional midsize SUVs.
Like all electric vehicles, the ride tends to be firm, which is becoming the new normal that one must adjust to. The Curvv EV handles small ditches and uneven roads with relative composure, yet it struggles with harsh road conditions, particularly when encountering deep potholes. This is especially noticeable for passengers in the rear seats.
Tata Curvv EV Review: Range and Charging
In real-world driving conditions, the digital instrument cluster offers 376 km in Sport mode, 396 km in City and 420 km in Eco. We will have to do a thorough test to confirm the figures. According to figures claimed by ARAI, the 45 kWh version offers a driving range of 502 km and the 55 kWh 585 km. Tata Motors has stated these are in ideal testing conditions and in reality the entry-level will return in the region of 350 km and around 502 km for the top model.Â
The Curvv EV 55 kWh has the largest battery capacity in its segment and with a 70 kW charger, it can juice up from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in 40 minutes. For a quick charge, the battery can offer a range of 150 km in 15 minutes with the fast 70 kW charger.
Tata Curvv EV Review: Interiors and Features
The interior layout is similar to the Nexon EV, which is a good thing as it has a fresh contemporary layout. What could have been better is the use of less hard plastic especially the top layer of the dashboard. However, with contrasting coloured stitching, faux carbon fibre and leather finish layers, it does feel premium.
The vehicle boasts a 12.3-inch infotainment system, and the glossy black centre console features user-friendly touch buttons and toggle switches for controlling fan speed and temperature. Additionally, the driver’s console includes a 10.25-inch digital display that serves as a navigation system, enhancing convenience.
The Curvv EV gets all the usual bells and whistles like a wireless phone charger, connected tech, voice command controlled panoramic sunroof, 9-speaker JBL sound system, cruise control, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, air purifier and ambient lighting.
The seating deserves a special note. The Currv EV features front-ventilated seats, a 6-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a 6-way manually adjustable front passenger seat. Although the rear seat includes a two-step recline function, the raised floor and lack of thigh support on the seat squab are notable. While the rear space isn’t as generous as other SUVs in its category, it remains comfortable and spacious. The rear bench comfortably accommodates two adults, with room for a child in the middle.
Regarding cabin space, passengers under 6 feet will find ample headroom, thanks of the interior’s scooped-up roofline. Additionally, the cabin doesn’t feel claustrophobic, as the C-pillar design complements the large and wide windows.
Tata Curvv EV Review: Exteriors
The Curvv EV has a unique structure with its sporty coupe roofline and tall stance. The Curvv sports the split headlight design with a sleek LED DRL running below the hood, which has smart lighting features like welcome and goodbye animation, charging indicator and sequential turn Indicators. It comes with all LED lights including the fog lamps that have a cornering function.
The Curvv gets an electrically powered front charging flap, an 11.6-litre frunk where the charging wires can be placed and 18-inch alloy wheels. The Currv EV is the first in its segment to come with a powered tailgate with gesture controls and has 500 litres of boot space, the best in the segment. The 55 kWh model has a ground clearance of 186 mm and 190 mm for the 45 kWh. The Curvv EV gets vehicle-to-load and vehicle-to-vehicle functionality just like the Nexon EV.Â
Tata Curvv EV Review: Should you buy it?
The Curvv EV is competitively priced, starting from Rs 17.49 lakh to Rs 21.99 lakh as an introductory offer. It boasts a range of safety features, including Level 2 ADAS, six airbags, all-disc brakes, front parking sensors, an electronic parking brake with auto-hold, hill hold assist, hill descent control, and more. The Curvv EV offers a sleek design, spacious cabin, and superior road handling. Tata Motors is set to launch the Curvv ICE in September, and with the availability of multiple drivetrains, the coupe SUV’s sales numbers are expected to propel further, similar to what was observed with the Punch.
