Compact SUV Showdown: Tata Curve vs. Citroen Basalt - Which Offers More Value?

Battle of SUVs: Tata Curve vs. Citroen Basalt - Which is Worth Your Money in 2025?

If you're planning to buy an SUV in 2025, Tata Curve and Citroen Basalt are two exciting options that aim to redefine the compact SUV market. While Tata Curve packs a punch with its design and tech, Basalt makes a compelling case with affordability and functionality. Let’s dive into their features and find out which one deserves your attention and hard-earned money.

Pricing: The Value Proposition

Citroen Basalt starts at an impressive ₹8 lakh, making it a budget-friendly option for those entering the SUV space. On the other hand, the Curve commands a premium, starting at ₹10 lakh. But is the extra lakh worth it? The Curve’s Creative variant boasts advanced features like a piano-finished interior, LED headlamps, and futuristic designs. Meanwhile, Basalt wins on practicality, offering excellent value with split headlight units, fog lamps, and a stylishly updated grille.

Design and Styling: Elegance Meets Rugged

Basalt:

Sleek and proportional with standout split headlight units and blacked-out DRLs. Its rear, especially at night, has a mesmerizing look with a floating taillight design.

Curve:

Borrowing from Nexon’s DNA, the Curve stands out in its side and rear profiles with piano finishes and a bold stance. However, these finishes can be prone to scratches and dust, affecting long-term aesthetics.

Engine & Performance: Power Play

Basalt:

Powered by a refined 1.2L turbo petrol engine producing X PS. It’s quieter, responsive, and efficient, delivering 12-14 km/l in cities and up to 16 km/l on highways. Perfect for everyday commutes and occasional highway drives.

Curve:

The Curve's engine shares similarities with the Nexon, offering Y PS. While impressive on paper, its real-life performance feels slightly laggy, especially during aggressive revving. However, it compensates with a smooth highway drive and better fuel efficiency when driven calmly.

Ride & Handling: Comfort for All

Suspension:

Both SUVs offer a comfortable ride, but Curve’s 215-section tyres give it an edge in stability. Basalt, with its slightly lower ground clearance, maintains balance but could’ve benefited from more robust tyres.

Braking:

Curve’s panic braking at high speeds is more stable, while Basalt experiences mild directional changes.

Interior & Features: Luxury vs. Practicality

Basalt:

• Spacious with soft-touch materials.
• Practical features like split storage and accessible charging points.
• No leather seats but a combination of premium materials.

Curve:

• Premium piano-finished interiors and flush door handles.
• Wireless charging, touchscreen infotainment, and customizable ambient lighting.

Boot Space & Practicality

When it comes to boot space:

• Curve offers a massive 500L, accommodating large luggage with ease.
• Basalt provides 470L, slightly smaller but still practical with hooks and a parcel tray.

Safety: Always a Priority

Both SUVs boast top-notch safety ratings:

• Basalt: 5-star Bharat NCAP rating, reflecting Citroën’s commitment to safety.
• Curve: Advanced ADAS features and structural strength provide added peace of mind.

Verdict: Which SUV Should You Choose?

If your budget hovers around ₹13-14 lakh and you value affordability and practicality, Citroën Basalt is a fantastic choice. It’s an underrated gem for buyers seeking reliable performance and decent features. However, if you can stretch your budget to ₹15-16 lakh, Curve offers advanced tech and a modern design that caters to enthusiasts seeking a stylish and tech-packed ride.

Whichever you choose, both SUVs bring a lot to the table, making them excellent contenders in the compact SUV segment of 2025.

What are your thoughts? We’d love to hear your picks in the comments below! Stick around for the hottest updates from the automotive world!