Tata Curvv Petrol Drive Review: Exploring the Performance of Tata’s New Hyperion Engine
The Tata Curvv has been one of the most hyped cars of 2024, and it’s not just the car itself that’s making headlines. Tata has launched a brand-new petrol engine called the Hyperion, a 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine. The engine promises increased performance and power, and we had the chance to test this engine during a media drive in Goa. Here’s a detailed review based on our experience driving the Tata Curvv for around 30-40 kilometers.
First Impressions of the Tata Curvv Petrol Engine
The Tata Curvv variant we tested was the top-spec Accomplish Plus, featuring a 6-speed manual transmission. We had previously driven the diesel variant, which comes equipped with a 7-speed DCT, but this time around, it was time to see how the petrol manual performed.
The starting price of this vehicle is around ₹9.9 lakhs, and it goes up to ₹19 lakhs. If you’re looking for an automatic, you can opt for a variant priced around ₹13 lakhs, which offers both petrol and diesel options with a 7-speed DCT.
Under the hood, the Hyperion engine produces 125 BHP of power and 225 Nm of torque, making it a significant upgrade on paper. But does this translate to real-world performance?
Driving Experience: Is the Performance Noticeable?
As soon as we got behind the wheel, it was clear that the driving experience had improved compared to previous iterations. Being a manual transmission, you feel more in control of the vehicle’s performance. However, during the initial acceleration, we noticed that the car takes a bit of time to pick up speed. There is a slight lag before the turbo kicks in, but once it does, the performance feels elevated, especially when driving at higher speeds.
We tested the car on highways, reaching speeds of 80-90 km/h, and the engine performed admirably at those levels. In fact, the sweet spot for this engine seems to be when the turbo kicks in, delivering a surge of power that makes overtaking and driving on open roads a breeze.
Engine Vibrations and Sound
One of the aspects we were curious about was engine vibration and sound, particularly given this is a new engine. We conducted a small test by placing a water bottle on the dashboard to check for vibrations. The results were minimal vibrations across the body structure, a noticeable improvement compared to previous engines.
The engine sound is fairly quiet at idle, and even when revved up, it’s not overwhelming inside the cabin. However, when you push the RPMs above 2000, particularly in lower gears, you can hear the engine working hard. This noise subsides as you shift into higher gears, making for a much quieter driving experience at cruising speeds.
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Testing the Performance on Inclines
We also put the Tata Curvv to the test on some steep inclines to see how well the engine performed under pressure. In second gear, with the RPMs nearing 3500-4000, the engine had more than enough power to handle steep climbs without breaking a sweat. Even with the accelerator pedal fully pressed, the engine didn’t feel like it was reaching its limits. The power delivery remained smooth and consistent.
Steering Feedback and Driving Comfort
When it comes to steering feedback, Tata has made noticeable improvements. In the past, cars like the Safari and Harrier were known for their hydraulic steering systems, but the Curvv now features electronic steering. The response is good, though not perfect. The feedback is decent, and the steering feels well-cushioned, wrapped in premium leather. Overall, the driving experience is quite satisfying, with a sense of control and comfort.
Manual vs Automatic: Which One to Choose?
If you’re someone who enjoys driving and likes to be in control, the manual variant of the Tata Curvv is a great option. The 6-speed manual transmission allows you to truly experience the performance of the Hyperion engine. However, if you’re more inclined toward convenience, the automatic version, with its 7-speed DCT, is also an excellent choice. The diesel variant, which we drove earlier, offers smooth and effortless driving as well.
Mileage Expectations: City vs Highway
While we haven’t done a full fuel efficiency test, based on our experience, the Curvv’s petrol engine will give you an average of around 10-12 km/l in city driving conditions. On the highway, this figure should improve, and based on our previous experience with similar engines, you could expect up to 21 km/l under ideal conditions. This balance of performance and mileage makes the Tata Curvv’s petrol engine a compelling choice.
Conclusion: Is the Tata Curvv Petrol Worth It?
Tata’s decision to introduce the Hyperion engine into the market is undoubtedly a strategic move. For a vehicle as large as the Tata Curvv, a powerful engine is essential, and the 1.2-liter turbocharged Hyperion engine delivers the performance you would expect. While there is a slight turbo lag during initial acceleration, once it kicks in, the performance is impressive. The engine also feels more refined, with reduced vibrations and sound compared to its predecessors.
If you’re looking for a car in the mid-size SUV segment, the Tata Curvv, powered by the Hyperion engine, is a strong contender. Whether you’re commuting in the city or cruising on the highway, this engine delivers a balance of power, refinement, and efficiency.
Before making a final decision, however, we always recommend taking a test drive. Get a feel for the car’s performance, the engine’s responsiveness, and how it suits your driving style. After driving it ourselves for a substantial distance, we can confidently say that the Tata Curvv petrol with the Hyperion engine is a significant upgrade in Tata’s lineup.
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