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Tata Motors is building a name for itself in the automotive sector with a slew of new car releases and facelifts, among these is the upcoming Tata Curvv, a compact SUV that is set to enter a segment already crowded with nine contenders. However, the question arises: how different is the Tata Curvv from the existing Tata Nexon? Let's delve into the similarities and differences between these two models.
Tata's Strategy of Creating Variations
Tata Motors has a history of offering two variations of the same vehicle to cater to different market segments. This strategy has been evident with models like Indica and Indigo, Vista and Manza, Tiago and Tigor, and Harrier and Safari. Now, the Nexon and Curvv duo is poised to follow this pattern, targeting the sub-4m and compact SUV spaces.
Similarities in Design and Dimensions
Recent spy shots of the upcoming Curvv reveal a side profile that strongly resembles the Nexon. Both models share similarities from doors, wheels, bonnet, and everything up to the C-pillars. Even when the wheelbase of Curvv is superimposed on the recently launched Nexon facelift it appears quite similar. This prompts the question: Is Curvv essentially a larger version of the Nexon much like the Safari is to the Harrier? In other words, are they essentially the same car but with differences in size?
A Bigger Nexon
The Tata Curvv compact SUV seems to be around 4.3 meters in length making it slightly longer than the Nexon and the added length contributes to a stylish coupe-shaped roofline that extends farther than the Nexon's. This extended roofline is likely to result in approximately 420 liters of boot space in the Curvv, compared to the 382 liters in the Nexon. While sloping coupe rooflines typically compromise luggage space, this extra room should be competitive with other compact SUVs in the market.
Curvv's width may be slightly larger than the Nexon with slightly broader front and rear bumpers. This is a positive aspect, as the Nexon is already wider than competitors like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. While recent Curvv test mules did not feature roof rails, production models might include them. Tata might also offer larger 17-inch alloy wheels, albeit in the same design as the Nexon's 16-inch units.
Distinctive Features and Pricing Strategy
The Curvv is expected to feature distinctive elements in its front fascia such as LED DRL signatures and a unique grille design. Inside, it may offer additional features compared to the Nexon including an electric parking brake, electric front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen system, dual-zone climate control, and more. There are also speculations about the inclusion of an Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) suite and rear disc brakes.
In terms of pricing, Tata Motors might leverage the parts sharing between the two vehicles to offer aggressive pricing for the Curvv. Given the price gap of approximately Rs. 3 lakh between sub-4m and compact SUVs offered by other manufacturers, Tata's two versions of the same car could be a smart move to undercut rivals and provide an attractive pricing proposition.
Conclusion
The Tata Curvv and Nexon are very similar in terms of style and proportions, but the Curvv has a longer roofline, perhaps more boot capacity, and a few more amenities. Tata's pricing plan for the Curvv is projected to be competitive which makes it an appealing option in the compact SUV sector. The Curvv aims to give a compelling blend of elegance, utility, and value for money in a congested market.