Tata Motors Unveils Its First SUV Coupe Curvv

Tata Motors Unveils Its First SUV Coupe Curvv

Born of powerful philosophy, form and function, Tata Motors has unveiled its first SUV Coupe called the Curvv post its display at the Bharat Mobility Expo in Delhi early this year. Exhibiting the new-age SUV typology by artfully blending the toughness and practicality of an SUV with the elegance and sporty silhouette of a coupé, the vehicle will be launched formally on 7 August 2024. It will follow the company’s multi-powertrain strategy by being available with an electric powertrain as well as an ICE. 

The ICE line up expected to follow the launch of the electric line up on 7 August 2024, the Curvv – styled to look stunning and unlike a conventional mid-size SUV – highlights a ‘wedge shape’ design language that supports a coupe-like silhouette. The roof line seamlessly flows from the front to slope sharply at the rear. It reflects dynamic styling language that is also disruptive. 

To be offered with a petrol as well as a diesel powertrain under the multi-powertrain strategy as far as the ICE line up is concerned, the Curvv is helped by the raised ride height (ground clearance is 200 mm roughly), tough cladding and dynamic proportions in its form and function. 

The EV line up will be offered with the company’s high voltage architecture. The details of it will be revealed at the formal launch next month and is likely to share some of the key components and electronics with the Nexon EV. 

The ICE line is expected to share its petrol and electric powertrain with that of the Nexon as well. Particularly interesting would be the 125hp 1.2-litre turbocharged direct injection petrol engine with the power being routed to the front wheels via an option of a manual and auto transmission.   

To debut in two attractive colours (Virtual Sunrise in EV and Gold Essence in ICE), the Curvv is practically designed for the Indian family that loves going out for long drives, mentioned a Tata Motors source. The dynamic and disruptive exterior styling is met by modern and uncluttered interiors that combine the functionalities of an SUV with a spacious cabin and good storage space at the rear, he informed. 

Integrating best-in-class technologies with a bold yet smart selection of colours, materials and finishes, the vehicle comes with a panoramic glass roof. Packed with advanced infotainment, large screens and features like connected car technology, the Curvv adheres to its manufacturer’s legacy of safety by being engineered to meet the strictest safety norms with a host of active and passive safety features.

Shailesh Chandra, Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd, and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd, said, “Tata Motors has pioneered the Indian SUV arena. What’s more is that we have repeatedly disrupted the category though innovative designs that deliver great road presence as well as enhanced functionality. The original Sierra, Safari, Nexon, Punch and Harrier are testament to this design led market leadership in SUVs. Taking this legacy forward and to further strengthen our SUV portfolio, we have once again broken the clutter in the effervescent and aspirational mid SUV category by introducing the Tata Curvv - India’s first SUV Coupe - a disruptive design which democratises the Coupe body style in the premium categories, providing best in segment performance and never before seen practicality. Further, Curvv is at the forefront of our multi powertrain strategy, with options across petrol, diesel and electric powertrains. With the Curvv we will address a wide variety of needs of the mid SUV customers, providing them with a fresh and delightfully designed product complimented by premium performance.”

Image credit: Tata Motors

Kia India Appoints New Sales and Business Chiefs In Leadership Reshuffle

Kia India

Kia India has announced a significant change to its leadership team, naming Sunhack Park as Chief Sales Officer (CSO) and Joonsu Cho as Chief Business Officer (CBO).

As the new CSO, Park will head Kia India’s sales strategy, focusing on sustainable growth, improving operational efficiency and expanding the brand’s market reach. He brings over 28 years of international automotive experience, having held key leadership positions at Kia Headquarters in South Korea, the Middle East & Africa (MEA) and India.

Cho, in his role as CBO, will be responsible for crafting business strategies, overseeing production planning and export logistics, leading cross-functional teams and forging strategic alliances to ensure operational excellence. He has over 32 years of leadership experience from global roles in Australia, the UK and Europe.

Sunhack Park, said, “I am privileged to take on the role as Chief Sales Officer. This is an exciting phase for the brand as we continue to expand our presence in a dynamic and evolving market. My focus will be on driving sales growth, optimizing operational efficiency, and strengthening our dealer and partner ecosystem.”

Joonsu Cho, said, “I am honored to assume the role of Chief Business Officer. Kia India has made remarkable strides in the market, and my priority will be to develop and execute robust business strategies that support sustainable growth and operational excellence.”

Raghava Rao

RattanIndia Enterprises-owned Revolt Motors, a leading electric motorcycle brand, is strengthening its leadership team and has appointed Raghava Rao as its new Chief Business Officer (CBO).

Rao, a seasoned industry leader, comes with over two decades of diverse experience across the automotive sector, spanning two-wheelers, tractors, three-wheelers and commercial vehicles.

Prior to joining Revolt Motors, he has held senior leadership positions at Kinetic Engineering, Bajaj Auto, Tata Motors, Piaggio Vehicles and TI Clean Mobility (Montra Electric).

Roy Kurian Joins Revolt Motors As President

Rao has expertise in channel sales, customer support, customer experience and market insights, with a proven track record of driving business growth and customer success.

Anjali Rattan, Chairperson, RattanIndia Enterprises, said, “We are delighted to welcome Raghava Rao to the Revolt family. His deep expertise in the automotive industry and proven leadership across multiple business functions will play a crucial role in accelerating our growth journey and further strengthening Revolt’s position as India’s No.1 electric motorcycle brand.”

Rao is an alumnus of the Indian School of Business (General Management Program), holds a B.Tech degree from BITS Pilani, and a PGCSM from XLRI Jamshedpur.

Mahindra Launches New Thar SUV At Prices Starting INR 999,000

Mahindra Thar

Mumbai-headquartered SUV major Mahindra & Mahindra has launched the new Thar with prices starting at INR 999,000. The vehicle incorporates design changes, comfort features and technology integration, engineered for urban travel and weekend adventures.

The popular SUV has gone home to over 300,000 customers, now features a new exterior, which includes a front grille, a dual-tone front bumper and R18 alloy wheels. The interior includes a black theme dashboard and a new steering wheel. It is available in six colour options, including two new additions: Tango Red and Battleship Grey.

For comfort and convenience, the Thar features rear AC vents for second-row passengers, a sliding armrest and a dead pedal (automatic transmission models). Door-mounted power windows, a rear-view camera and an internally operated fuel lid are included. The vehicle also has a rear wash & wiper and an A-Pillar entry assist handle.

The Thar is equipped with a 26.03 cm HD infotainment screen that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Other tech includes Type-C USB ports and Adventure Stats Gen II, which provides off-road data such as a racing tab, altimeter, outside temperature and pressure, trip meter and steering direction.

Mahindra offers a range of engine options paired with transmissions – a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic – in RWD as well as 4X4 configurations.

Nalinikanth Gollagunta, CEO - Automotive Division, Mahindra & Mahindra, said, “Over the years, Thar has become more than just an SUV – it’s a symbol of freedom, adventure, and a lifestyle that resonates deeply with our customers. At Mahindra, we are committed to listening to our customers and evolving with their needs, which is why the New Thar reflects both their feedback and our dedication to provide the best to our customers. By blending new design elements, smart technology, enhanced comfort and convenience features, the new Thar offers an unparalleled driving experience that empowers our customers to explore limitless possibilities in both urban and off-road settings.”

Citroen Launches New Aircross X SUV At INR 829,000

Citroen Aircross X SUV

Stellantis-owned Citroen India has launched the new Aircross X SUV, the latest addition to its premium X-Series portfolio, with an introductory price starting at INR 829,000. The launch, the company said, is a key step in the brand’s Citroen 2.0 ‘Shift Into the New’ strategy, positioning the SUV as a feature-rich, spacious option for Indian customers.

The new Aircross X elevates its segment with significant interior and technology upgrades. The cabin features an enriched design with a leatherette-wrapped instrument panel, chic gold accents and a bezel-less 10.25-inch infotainment screen paired with a 7-inch digital cluster. Comfort is enhanced with ventilated leatherette seats, diffused ambient lighting and the brand’s signature Advanced Comfort Suspension.

A standout feature is the introduction of CARA, billed as India’s first multilingual, intuitive in-car companion. CARA can communicate in 52 languages, control essential vehicle functions and prioritise safety with voice SOS and crash alerts. Driving convenience is further improved with Proxi-Sense Passive Entry, Cruise Control and a HALO 360deg Camera with Satellite View.

Emphasising the model’s safety credentials, the launch follows the recent 5-star Adult protection rating awarded to the Aircross 5S variant in the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (BNCAP).

The New Aircross X is available in 5- and 7-seater configurations with options for both ICE and CNG engines. Bookings are now open across all Citroen dealerships and online.

Kumar Priyesh, Business Head & Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, “The new Aircross X is an SUV designed around the real needs of Indian families – space, comfort, safety and smart innovation. With the debut of CARA, we’re making everyday mobility more intuitive and personal. What makes the New Aircross X unique is that it blends the practicality of a family SUV with the premium feel of our X-Series design. It is a versatile SUV that’s aspirational, yet accessible.”