The Curvv lineup is the second most expensive in the new Tata Motors South Africa portfolio. CAR contributor Charlen Raymond drives the newcomer at its local launch.
What are we driving and why is it significant?
As is just about common knowledge by now, Tata Motors is back in South Africa and the Curvv 1.2T Accomplished S DCA, priced from R519 900, is one of the stars of the show. As part of Tata’s initial four-model comeback to our market, this coupé-styled SUV is a definite head-turner in the compact-SUV segment. With a five-star Bharat NCAP safety rating, Tata says this crossover was designed for drivers who want style, safety, and modern features without breaking the bank. Of course, touching on R520k, pricing for the range-topping model driven here is quite removed from “without breaking the bank”, but the range has a strong starting price (R349 900), which should be of interest to keen buyers.
What’s new on the Tata Curvv?
The Curvv stretches 4 308 mm long, 1 810 mm wide, and 1 635 mm tall, with a 208 mm ground clearance. Its 500-litre (claimed) boot, opened by a powered tailgate, makes loading groceries or luggage a breeze. The Accomplished S DCA is the flagship and loaded with extras like a voice-activated panoramic sunroof with mood lighting, 18-inch alloy wheels, a 10.25-inch digital driver’s display, and a 10.25-inch Harman infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You also get a JBL nine-speaker system with a subwoofer, leather seats, a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and ventilation for the latter and front passenger pew. Safety is top-notch, with six airbags, a 360-degree camera, hill descent control, and electronic stability control.
What does the Tata Curvv cost?
Priced at R519 900, the Curvv 1.2T Accomplished S DCA sits above the Pure+ MT and Creative DCA. It comes with a five-year/125 000 km warranty and a three-year/45 000 km service plan. Tata, now under Motus Holdings in South Africa, backs its re-entry with 40 dealerships across South Africa. The Indian automaker plans on growing this number to 70 by 2027.
- Tata Curvv 1.2T Pure+ MT – R349 900
- Tata Curvv 1.2T Creative DCA – R419 900
- Tata Curvv 1.2T Accomplished S DCA – R519 900
What are the Tata Curvv’s rivals?
The Curvv 1.2T Accomplished S DCA takes on crossover/SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Chery Tiggo 7 Pro, and Kia Seltos. Its 1.2-litre turbo engine pumps out 88 kW and 170 N.m, giving it a lively edge, especially at higher altitudes. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (DCA) with paddle shifters adds a sporty feel, though it’s less common than traditional automatics in this class.
What is the Tata Curvv like to drive?
Driving the Curvv 1.2T Accomplished S DCA feels effortless. Its turbocharged engine delivers power in a smooth fashion, with three drive modes – Eco, City, and Sport – letting you switch between relaxed or zippy performance. Naturally, it’s not a pocket rocket, but there is enough in the bag to stick to the national speed limit. The seven-speed DCA shifts smoothly, but it prefers cogging over by itself. The paddle shifters are a great touch, but almost unnecessary considering that 88 kW won’t leave that much rubber on the tar.
Inside, the cabin feels plush with mood lighting, a spacious feel for five, and reclining rear seats, though the sloping roofline slightly limits rear headroom if you’re on the taller side. The steering is light and precise, and parking is made easy with the 360-degree camera.
Verdict
The Tata Curvv 1.2T Accomplished S DCA is a feature-packed crossover that brings something fresh to South Africa’s ever-growing compact-SUV market. Its eye-catching coupé design and premium touches, like the panoramic sunroof and JBL audio, make it feel luxurious at a competitive price. Sure, this model’s price is not little, but as a package, it is hard to ignore.
2025 Tata Curvv 1.2T Accomplished S DCA specifications
- Price: R519 900
- Powertrain: 1.2-litre, three-cylinder, turbopetrol
- Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
- Driven wheels: front
- Power: 88 kW @ 5 500 r/min
- Torque: 170 N.m @ 1750-4000 r/min
- Top speed: 160 km/h (claimed)
- Fuel consumption: 6.1 L/100km (claimed)
- CO2 emissions: 145 g/km
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