The Tata Curvv focuses on premium features, powerful engine options, advanced technology and safety. On the other hand, the Citroen Basalt attracts buyers with its affordable pricing, spacious rear seats, comfortable suspension and value-for-money package.
But which SUV-coupe should you buy in 2026? Is the Tata Curvv worth spending extra money on, or does the Citroen Basalt offer a better overall package?
In this detailed comparison, we will compare their prices, exterior design, interior, dimensions, engine performance, mileage, comfort, safety, features and practicality to help you make the right decision.
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| Tata Curvv Premium SUV-coupe |
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| Citroen Basalt Affordable SUV-coupe |
Prices and specifications discussed below are based on information available in November 2026. Prices are ex-showroom unless otherwise mentioned.
1. Tata Curvv vs Citroen Basalt: Price Comparison
Price is one of the biggest differences between these two SUV-coupes.
The Tata Curvv Series X is available in multiple petrol and diesel configurations, while the Citroen Basalt offers naturally aspirated petrol and turbo-petrol engines.
Ex-showroom price comparison
Price details |
Tata Curvv |
Citroen Basalt |
|---|---|---|
Starting price |
₹10 lakh |
₹8.55 lakh |
Top model price |
₹19 lakh |
₹13.89 lakh |
Fuel options |
Petrol, Diesel |
Petrol |
Transmission |
Manual, DCT |
Manual, Automatic |
The Tata Curvv Series X starts at ₹10 lakh and goes up to ₹19 lakh. The Citroen Basalt is considerably more affordable, with prices ranging from ₹8.55 lakh to ₹13.89 lakh.
Price verdict: The Citroen Basalt is the more affordable choice, especially for buyers looking for a stylish SUV-coupe on a limited budget. The Tata Curvv justifies its higher price with additional features, a diesel engine option and a more premium package.
2. Exterior Design Comparison
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| Tata Curvv |
.jfif) |
| Citroen Basalt |
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Citroen Basalt |
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Citroen Basalt |
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| Citroen Basalt |
Both SUVs feature a coupe-inspired roofline, but their exterior designs have different personalities.
Tata Curvv exterior design
The Tata Curvv gets a sporty and aggressive exterior design. Its sharp body lines, connected LED rear lighting, stylish front fascia and sloping roofline give it a modern road presence.
Key exterior highlights include:
Connected LED tail-lamp design.
LED headlamps and daytime running lights.
Flush-fitting door handles.
Sporty alloy wheels.
Panoramic sunroof.
Bold front grille.
Attractive Dark edition styling.
The 18-inch alloy wheels on higher variants further improve its sporty appearance.
Citroen Basalt exterior design
The Citroen Basalt follows a comparatively simple and rounded design approach. Its coupe-style roofline blends smoothly into the rear boot, giving it a distinctive appearance.
Key exterior highlights include:
LED projector headlamps.
Stylish LED DRLs.
Coupe-inspired sloping roofline.
Attractive front grille.
16-inch alloy wheels.
Distinctive rear LED lighting.
Muscular wheel arches.
Exterior verdict: The Tata Curvv is the better choice if you prefer an aggressive, sporty and premium-looking SUV. The Citroen Basalt is suitable for buyers who prefer a simpler and more proportionate design.
3. Dimensions Comparison
Dimensions are important when purchasing an SUV because they directly influence cabin space, road presence and practicality.
Dimensions |
Tata Curvv |
Citroen Basalt |
|---|---|---|
Length |
4,308 mm |
4,352 mm |
Width |
1,810 mm |
1,765 mm |
Height |
1,630 mm |
1,593 mm |
Wheelbase |
2,560 mm |
2,651 mm |
Ground clearance |
208 mm |
180 mm |
Boot space |
500 litres |
470 litres |
Fuel tank |
44 litres |
45 litres |
Seating capacity |
5 |
5 |
Which SUV is bigger?
The Citroen Basalt is 44 mm longer.
The Tata Curvv is 45 mm wider.
The Tata Curvv is 37 mm taller.
The Citroen Basalt has a 91 mm longer wheelbase.
The Tata Curvv offers 30 litres more boot space.
The Tata Curvv has 28 mm more ground clearance.
Dimensions verdict: The Citroen Basalt offers a longer wheelbase, which benefits rear-seat legroom. However, the Tata Curvv offers greater width, ground clearance and boot capacity.
4. Engine and Performance Comparison
Engine performance is another important area where the two SUVs offer different advantages.
The Tata Curvv comes with two turbo-petrol engines and one diesel engine. The Citroen Basalt offers naturally aspirated and turbocharged petrol engines.
Tata Curvv engine specifications
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| Tata Curvv |
Engine details |
Specifications |
|---|---|
1.2L Turbo-petrol |
120 PS |
Torque |
170 Nm |
1.2L Hyperion GDI turbo-petrol |
125 PS |
Torque |
225 Nm |
1.5L Diesel |
118 PS |
Torque |
260 Nm |
Manual gearbox |
6-speed |
Automatic gearbox |
7-speed DCT |
The Curvv's 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine produces 120 PS and 170 Nm. Its more powerful Hyperion direct-injection engine generates 125 PS and 225 Nm.
The 1.5-litre diesel engine produces 118 PS and 260 Nm, making it an interesting option for buyers who regularly travel long distances.
Citroen Basalt engine specifications
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| Citroen Basalt |
Engine details |
Specifications |
|---|---|
1.2L Naturally aspirated petrol |
82 PS |
Torque |
115 Nm |
1.2L Turbo-petrol MT |
110 PS |
Torque |
190 Nm |
1.2L Turbo-petrol AT |
110 PS |
Torque |
205 Nm |
Manual gearbox |
5-speed / 6-speed |
Automatic gearbox |
6-speed torque converter |
The Basalt's naturally aspirated engine is suitable for buyers looking for everyday city driving. Its turbo-petrol engine offers better acceleration and stronger performance.
The automatic version produces 205 Nm of torque, while the manual version delivers 190 Nm.
Which SUV has better performance?
The Tata Curvv offers more engine choices, including a diesel option and a more powerful direct-injection turbo-petrol engine.
However, the Basalt's turbo-petrol engine feels responsive and offers an enjoyable driving experience. In Autocar India's road comparison, the Basalt impressed with its initial acceleration and engaging manual gearbox, while the Curvv offered better engine refinement.
Engine verdict: Tata Curvv is the winner for engine variety, diesel availability and maximum power. Citroen Basalt is a good option for buyers who want an affordable turbo-petrol SUV.
5. Mileage Comparison
Mileage is one of the most important considerations for Indian car buyers, particularly those who regularly drive in city traffic and on highways.
Mileage details |
Tata Curvv |
Citroen Basalt |
|---|---|---|
Petrol |
Varies by engine and gearbox |
18–19.5 km/l |
Diesel |
Available |
Not available |
Automatic |
Available |
Available |
Fuel tank |
44 litres |
45 litres |
The Citroen Basalt offers a claimed mileage range of approximately 18–19.5 km/l, depending on the variant.
The Tata Curvv's fuel efficiency varies depending on whether you select the turbo-petrol, direct-injection petrol or diesel engine. Its diesel option is particularly attractive for buyers covering higher monthly distances.
Mileage verdict: The Basalt has competitive claimed petrol mileage, while the Curvv provides the additional advantage of a diesel powertrain. Actual mileage will depend on traffic, driving style, transmission and road conditions.
6. Interior and Cabin Comparison
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Citroen Basalt |
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| Citroen Basalt |
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| Citroen Basalt |
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Citroen Basalt |
Interior quality plays an important role in the overall driving experience. Both SUVs offer modern cabin layouts, but the Tata Curvv has a more premium-looking interior.
Tata Curvv interior
The Tata Curvv features a modern dashboard with a stylish layout, premium upholstery and a large touchscreen infotainment system.
Important interior features include:
12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
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10.25-inch digital instrument cluster on higher variants.
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Panoramic sunroof.
Ventilated front seats.
Six-way electrically adjustable driver's seat.
Wireless phone charging.
Automatic climate control.
JBL nine-speaker audio system on selected variants.
Ambient lighting.
The cabin feels more technology-focused, especially in the higher variants.
Citroen Basalt interior
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| Citroen Basalt |
The Citroen Basalt offers a practical cabin with an airy interior atmosphere and a straightforward dashboard design.
Important interior features include:
10.24-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
7-inch digital instrument cluster.
Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Automatic climate control.
Rear AC vents.
Wireless phone charging.
Physical climate-control switches.
Comfortable front seats.
Rear-seat centre armrest.
The Basalt's interior is simpler than the Curvv's, but its physical air-conditioning controls are convenient to operate while driving.
Interior verdict: Tata Curvv is the clear winner for premium cabin design, touchscreen size and equipment. Citroen Basalt offers a simpler and more practical dashboard layout.
7. Features Comparison
Features can make a significant difference when selecting between two similarly positioned SUVs.
Features |
Tata Curvv |
Citroen Basalt |
|---|---|---|
Touchscreen |
12.3-inch |
10.24-inch |
Digital driver's display |
10.25-inch |
7-inch |
Panoramic sunroof |
Yes |
No |
Ventilated front seats |
Yes |
Yes, on selected variants |
Powered driver's seat |
Yes |
No |
Wireless charging |
Yes |
Yes |
Wireless Android Auto |
Yes |
Yes |
Wireless Apple CarPlay |
Yes |
Yes |
Rear AC vents |
Yes |
Yes |
Automatic climate control |
Yes |
Yes |
JBL audio system |
Yes, selected variants |
No |
Powered tailgate |
Yes, selected variants |
No |
360-degree camera |
Yes, selected variants |
Yes, selected variants |
Features verdict: Tata Curvv offers a more comprehensive feature package, particularly in its higher variants. The Basalt covers the essential comfort and infotainment requirements but misses some premium features.
8. Safety Comparison and Crash Test Rating
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Citroen Basalt |
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Citroen Basalt |
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Citroen Basalt |
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| Citroen Basalt |
Safety is an important consideration, and both SUVs have been assessed by Bharat NCAP.
5/5
Tata Curvv
Adult and child protection
29.50 / 32 adult
43.66 / 49 child
4/5
Citroen Basalt
Adult and child protection
26.19 / 32 adult
35.90 / 49 child
Tata Curvv safety features
Six airbags.
Electronic Stability Control.
ABS with EBD.
Hill-hold control.
ISOFIX child-seat anchors.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.
360-degree camera on selected variants.
Level 2 ADAS on selected variants.
Blind-view monitoring on selected variants.
Citroen Basalt safety features
Six airbags.
Electronic Stability Control.
ABS with EBD.
Hill-hold assist.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.
Rear parking sensors.
360-degree camera on selected variants.
ISOFIX child-seat mounting points.
Safety verdict: Tata Curvv is the winner with its five-star Bharat NCAP rating for adult and child occupant protection. The Basalt also offers a respectable four-star rating, but the Curvv has the advantage in crash-test scores.
Note: Bharat NCAP ratings apply to the variants and powertrain configurations listed in the respective assessment documents. Check the rating applicability for your chosen variant.
9. Rear Seat Comfort and Space
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Citroen Basalt |
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Citroen Basalt |
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Citroen Basalt |
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Citroen Basalt |
Tata Curvv rear-seat comfort
The Curvv offers comfortable rear seats with good cushioning and sufficient knee room for most passengers. However, its sloping coupe roofline reduces headroom, particularly for taller passengers.
Its rear-seat highlights include:
Rear AC vents.
Rear centre armrest.
Reclining backrest.
Comfortable seat cushioning.
Good cabin width.
Citroen Basalt rear-seat comfort
The Basalt benefits from its longer wheelbase, which helps provide better rear legroom. Its rear seats offer good cushioning and a relatively airy cabin atmosphere.
Its highlights include:
Spacious rear seating.
Good knee room.
Rear AC vents.
Rear centre armrest.
Comfortable backrest angle.
Good under-thigh support.
The coupe roofline still affects headroom, but the Basalt generally feels more accommodating for rear passengers.
Rear-seat verdict: Citroen Basalt wins this round because of its longer wheelbase and better rear-seat space.
10. Boot Space and Practicality
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Citroen Basalt |
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Citroen Basalt |
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| Tata Curvv |
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| Citroen Basalt |
Boot capacity is another important factor for families who regularly travel with luggage.
Practicality |
Tata Curvv |
Citroen Basalt |
|---|---|---|
Boot capacity |
500 litres |
470 litres |
Fuel tank |
44 litres |
45 litres |
Seating capacity |
5 |
5 |
Ground clearance |
208 mm |
180 mm |
The Tata Curvv offers 500 litres of boot space, compared with 470 litres in the Citroen Basalt.
The Curvv also has a lower loading lip and a wider boot opening, making it easier to load luggage.
Practicality verdict: Tata Curvv wins because of its larger boot and higher ground clearance. The Basalt remains a practical family SUV, especially for passengers travelling in the rear.
11. Ride Quality and Handling Comparison
Ride quality is one of the strongest points of both vehicles.
Tata Curvv ride quality
The Tata Curvv offers a stable and confident driving experience, especially on highways. Its suspension handles rough roads effectively and maintains good body control.
Advantages include:
Stable highway performance.
Good bump absorption.
Confident cornering.
Strong road presence.
Good high-speed stability.
However, the suspension can feel slightly firm over smaller bumps at low speeds.
Citroen Basalt ride quality
The Citroen Basalt is known for its comfortable suspension setup. It absorbs uneven roads and smaller bumps effectively, making it suitable for daily commuting.
Advantages include:
Comfortable suspension.
Good low-speed bump absorption.
Relaxed city driving experience.
Comfortable rear-seat ride.
However, its softer suspension results in more body movement during hard braking and cornering.
Ride quality verdict: The Basalt is particularly comfortable over smaller bumps, while the Curvv provides better body control and highway stability. Your preference will depend on the type of roads you drive most frequently.
12. Transmission and Driving Experience
Transmission |
Tata Curvv |
Citroen Basalt |
|---|---|---|
Manual |
6-speed |
5-speed / 6-speed |
Automatic |
7-speed DCT |
6-speed torque converter |
Petrol automatic |
Available |
Available |
Diesel automatic |
Available |
Not available |
Driving modes |
Available on selected variants |
No comparable selectable drive-mode system |
The Tata Curvv offers a dual-clutch automatic transmission, which is suitable for buyers looking for a sporty driving experience.
The Citroen Basalt uses a conventional torque-converter automatic, which is an attractive option for people who spend considerable time in city traffic.
Transmission verdict: Tata Curvv wins for gearbox variety, while Citroen Basalt offers a conventional automatic transmission that may appeal to buyers prioritising relaxed city driving.
13. Tata Curvv vs Citroen Basalt: Pros and Cons
Tata Curvv
Five-star Bharat NCAP rating.
Premium interior.
Larger boot.
More powerful engine choices.
Diesel engine option.
Panoramic sunroof.
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More advanced technology.
Disadvantages Higher starting price.
Rear headroom is limited.
Some controls require familiarisation.
Low-speed ride can feel firm.
Citroen Basalt
More affordable pricing.
Spacious rear seats.
Comfortable suspension.
Good turbo-petrol performance.
Conventional automatic gearbox.
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Attractive claimed petrol mileage.
Disadvantages Four-star Bharat NCAP rating.
No diesel engine.
No panoramic sunroof.
Smaller boot.
Fewer premium features.
Smaller alloy wheels.
14. Which Tata Curvv Variant Should You Buy?
The 2026 Tata Curvv Series X is available in six main trims: Smart X, Pure X, Pure X+, Creative X+, Accomplished X and Accomplished X+. Select variants are also available in Dark editions.
Here are some of the important petrol-manual prices:
Variant |
Ex-showroom price |
|---|---|
Smart X |
₹10 lakh |
Pure X |
₹11 lakh |
Pure X+ |
₹11.80 lakh |
Creative X+ |
₹12.91 lakh |
Accomplished X |
₹13.99 lakh |
The higher Accomplished X+ variants offer the more powerful Hyperion petrol engine and additional premium equipment. Diesel and automatic configurations are also available depending on the trim.
My recommendation: Consider the Pure X+ or Creative X+ if you want a balance between price and features. Buyers looking for premium equipment can consider Accomplished X.
15. Which Citroen Basalt Variant Should You Buy?
The Citroen Basalt is available in multiple configurations, including You, Plus and Max variants, with Comfort Edition options.
Its current ex-showroom price range is ₹8.55 lakh to ₹13.89 lakh.
Some important buying considerations:
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You: Suitable for buyers prioritising affordability.
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Plus: A balanced option for essential comfort and convenience features.
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Max: Suitable for buyers looking for more premium equipment.
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Turbo Petrol: Better suited to buyers who want stronger performance.
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Turbo Automatic: A convenient choice for city driving.
My recommendation: The Turbo Petrol Plus or Max variants are worth considering if you want a good combination of performance, comfort and equipment. Compare the actual variant equipment before booking.
16. Tata Curvv vs Citroen Basalt: Final Comparison Table
Here is a quick overview of all the important differences between these two SUV-coupes.
Comparison |
Winner |
|---|---|
Starting price |
Citroen Basalt |
Exterior design |
Tata Curvv |
Interior quality |
Tata Curvv |
Engine options |
Tata Curvv |
Maximum petrol power |
Tata Curvv |
Diesel availability |
Tata Curvv |
Claimed petrol mileage |
Citroen Basalt |
Rear-seat comfort |
Citroen Basalt |
Boot space |
Tata Curvv |
Ground clearance |
Tata Curvv |
Premium features |
Tata Curvv |
Automatic transmission choice |
Depends on preference |
Safety rating |
Tata Curvv |
Ride comfort over small bumps |
Citroen Basalt |
Highway stability |
Tata Curvv |
Overall affordability |
Citroen Basalt |
17. Which SUV Should You Buy in 2026?
Both the Tata Curvv and Citroen Basalt are attractive options in India's SUV-coupe segment, but the final decision depends on your budget, driving requirements and preferred features.
Buy the Tata Curvv if:
You want a premium-looking SUV-coupe.
You prefer a feature-loaded interior.
You need a diesel engine option.
You want a five-star Bharat NCAP safety rating.
You frequently travel on highways.
You want a larger boot and better ground clearance.
You prefer advanced technology and ADAS.
Buy the Citroen Basalt if:
You have a limited budget.
You want a stylish SUV-coupe at an affordable price.
You prioritise rear-seat comfort.
You prefer comfortable suspension.
You want a turbo-petrol engine.
You prefer a conventional torque-converter automatic.
Final Verdict
The Tata Curvv is the more complete SUV-coupe package in this comparison. It offers a premium interior, more engine options, a larger boot, additional technology and a higher Bharat NCAP safety rating.
However, the Citroen Basalt should not be ignored. Its affordable pricing, spacious rear seats, comfortable ride quality and responsive turbo-petrol engine make it a strong alternative.
Overall winner: Tata Curvv.
Best value-for-money choice: Citroen Basalt.
If your budget allows, the Tata Curvv is the better all-round purchase. But if affordability and rear-seat comfort are your biggest priorities, the Citroen Basalt deserves serious consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is better, Tata Curvv or Citroen Basalt?
The Tata Curvv is better overall because it offers more features, multiple engine options, a larger boot and a five-star Bharat NCAP safety rating. The Citroen Basalt is better for affordability and rear-seat comfort.
2. What is the starting price of Tata Curvv in 2026?
The Tata Curvv Series X starts at ₹10 lakh (ex-showroom) in India.
3. What is the starting price of Citroen Basalt in 2026?
The Citroen Basalt starts at approximately ₹8.55 lakh (ex-showroom).
4. Which car has better mileage, Tata Curvv or Citroen Basalt?
The Citroen Basalt offers a claimed mileage of approximately 18–19.5 km/l. Tata Curvv mileage varies by engine and transmission, with a diesel option for buyers seeking fuel efficiency.
5. Which SUV has better safety, Tata Curvv or Citroen Basalt?
The Tata Curvv has a five-star Bharat NCAP rating, while the Citroen Basalt has a four-star rating for adult and child occupant protection.
6. Which SUV has more boot space?
The Tata Curvv offers 500 litres of boot space, while the Citroen Basalt offers 470 litres.
7. Which car has better rear-seat comfort?
The Citroen Basalt offers better rear-seat legroom because of its longer wheelbase. The Curvv has a wider cabin but comparatively restricted rear headroom.
8. Does Tata Curvv offer a diesel engine?
Yes. The Tata Curvv offers a 1.5-litre diesel engine producing 118 PS and 260 Nm of torque.
9. Does Citroen Basalt offer an automatic transmission?
Yes. The Citroen Basalt offers a six-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox with its turbo-petrol engine.
10. Which is more value for money, Tata Curvv or Citroen Basalt?
The Citroen Basalt offers better affordability, while the Tata Curvv provides more features, engine choices and safety. The best value depends on your budget and requirements.
