The Curvv appeals to buyers looking for premium features and advanced technology. This compares the two vehicles comprehensively, covering their design, engine options, features, and pricing, with insights from user reviews and manufacturer statements.
Engine and Performance: A Closer Look at Powertrains
Under the hood, the Citroen Basalt offers two engine options that originate from the C3 aircross. The first is a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine that delivers 110 PS and up to 205 Nm of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission. The second option is a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 82 PS and 115 Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission. The Basalt’s fuel efficiency ratings range from 18 kmpl for the naturally aspirated petrol engine to 19.5 kmpl for the turbo-petrol manual variant.
In contrast, the Tata Curvv offers three engine choices, each delivering a different driving experience. The Curvv’s new 1.2-litre TGDI turbocharged petrol engine generates 123 bhp and 225 Nm of torque, offering a stronger performance profile than the Basalt. Another option is a 1.2-litre turbo engine with 118 bhp and 170 Nm, while a 1.5-litre diesel engine produces 116 bhp and 260 Nm. These engines are available with either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT), the latter being a first for a diesel engine in this segment. This diverse engine lineup positions the Curvv as a more versatile and powerful vehicle compared to the Basalt.
Also Read: Tata Curvv price announced: Here’s all about variant prices, features, specs
Pricing and Value for Money
The Citroen Basalt is positioned in the market with an introductory price range starting at Rs 7.99 lakh, going up to Rs 13.83 lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India). It is available in three main variants—You, Plus, and Max—with each offering different engine configurations and features. Despite some missing premium features, the Basalt’s competitive pricing makes it an appealing option for those seeking an affordable SUV-coupe with essential features.On the other hand, the Tata Curvv’s starting price is close to Rs 10 lakh for the base Smart variant equipped with a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine and a six-speed manual transmission. The Curvv’s higher price point reflects its more advanced features, premium design elements, and a broader range of engine options. This makes it suitable for buyers willing to pay a premium for a more luxurious and feature-packed driving experience.
Design and Features
The Citroen Basalt derives its design cues from the C3 Aircross SUV, showcasing a distinctive and practical style. It features LED headlights, tail lights, and daytime running lights (DRLs), enhancing its road presence. Inside, the Basalt comes with automatic air conditioning, a 10.2-inch touchscreen, a 7-inch digital driver’s display, and wireless phone charging. However, it does miss out on some premium features such as a sunroof and cruise control. Notably, it offers a 5-seater configuration, designed to comfortably accommodate a family of adults, similar to its C3 Aircross counterpart.
“The Citroen Basalt impresses with its sleek design and practicality, though it could benefit from additional premium features,” remarked one reviewer. The vehicle’s sloping roofline adds a coupe-like aesthetic, though some have noted that the 16-inch alloy wheels seem undersized for its proportions. The tail lamps and angular design provide a distinctive look that sets the Basalt apart in a crowded market.
In comparison, the Tata Curvv adopts a more modern and upscale design. Both the EV and ICE versions of the Curvv share Tata’s new ATLAS platform, resulting in a unified design language. The Curvv’s front end is dominated by a prominent LED DRL strip above the grille, with all lighting elements, including indicators, utilizing LEDs. The ICE variant of the Curvv also includes additional design elements like air vents, chrome accents, front sensors, and cameras.
The Curvv’s interior mirrors the EV version, featuring a dual-tone burgundy and black color scheme, which may come with additional color options. Key interior features include a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a nine-speaker JBL audio system, and a wireless phone charging pad. The Curvv also offers ventilated front seats, a powered tailgate with gesture controls, and a 360-degree camera system, making it a more feature-rich option compared to the Basalt.
Safety and Practicality: Which SUV-Coupe Delivers?
Safety is a critical consideration for both models. The Citroen Basalt comes with six airbags as standard, along with electronic stability control (ESC), a rear parking camera, and seatbelt reminders for all passengers. However, it lacks some advanced safety features that are becoming standard in other vehicles.
Citroen has made structural changes to improve safety ratings across its models. “Citroen has confirmed that they have made some structural changes in this car and other Citroen models to improve safety ratings or crash safety performance,” according to a company spokesperson.
The Tata Curvv takes safety a step further with its Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which include features such as a 360-degree camera system, six airbags, electronic stability control, all-wheel disc brakes, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and an electronic parking brake with auto hold. These features, along with the Curvv’s robust build quality, provide a higher level of safety and driver assistance compared to the Basalt.
In terms of practicality, the Citroen Basalt offers a 470-litre boot space, which is ample for large suitcases. However, the rear seats do not offer a 60:40 split-folding function, limiting its flexibility. The Tata Curvv, while not specifically mentioned in terms of boot space, offers additional practicality with its powered tailgate and multiple interior storage options.