The Citroen Basalt is a bold and innovative addition to the compact SUV segment, blending the practicality of an SUV with the sleek, stylish aesthetics of a coupe. Launched in India in August 2024, this vehicle marks Citroen’s entry into the burgeoning coupe SUV market, a segment that has gained significant traction among buyers seeking a unique blend of design and utility. Built on the same platform as the Citroen C3 Aircross, the Basalt stands out with its distinctive sloping roofline, robust road presence, and a feature-packed cabin designed to cater to modern driving needs. Citroen, a French automaker with a rich legacy of producing unconventional yet practical vehicles, has positioned the Basalt as a value-for-money offering, aiming to carve a niche in a competitive landscape dominated by traditional SUVs and crossovers.
The Basalt is more than just a stylish face; it’s a vehicle crafted for those who value comfort, efficiency, and a touch of individuality. With its spacious interiors, impressive boot space, and a choice of petrol engines, it appeals to families, young professionals, and urban adventurers alike. Available in multiple variants and powered by a reliable 1.2-litre engine in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged forms, the Basalt promises a versatile driving experience. Its pricing strategy, starting at an attractive introductory rate, makes it a compelling option against rivals like the Tata Curvv, Hyundai Creta, and Kia Seltos. In this detailed product overview, we’ll explore the technical specifications, variants, pricing in metro cities, and dive deep into what makes the Citroen Basalt a standout contender in its class.
Technical Specifications
Below is a comprehensive table outlining the technical specifications of the Citroen Basalt, sourced from credible online platforms like CarDekho, CarWale, and ZigWheels. These specifications cover the key aspects of the vehicle, including engine details, dimensions, and performance metrics.
| Parameter | Details (Naturally Aspirated) | Details (Turbocharged) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.2L PureTech Petrol | 1.2L PureTech Turbo Petrol |
| Displacement | 1199 cc | 1199 cc |
| No. of Cylinders | 3 | 3 |
| Max Power | 80 bhp @ 5750 rpm | 109 bhp @ 5500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 115 Nm @ 3750 rpm | 190 Nm @ 1750 rpm (MT) / 205 Nm @ 1750 rpm (AT) |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual | 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed Automatic |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 18 kmpl | 19.5 kmpl (MT) / 18.7 kmpl (AT) |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) |
| Length | 4352 mm | 4352 mm |
| Width | 1765 mm | 1765 mm |
| Height | 1593 mm | 1593 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2651 mm | 2651 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 180 mm (unladen) | 180 mm (unladen) |
| Boot Space | 470 litres | 470 litres |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 litres | 45 litres |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Suspension (Front) | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring |
| Suspension (Rear) | Twist Beam with Coil Spring | Twist Beam with Coil Spring |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Ventilated Disc / Drum | Ventilated Disc / Drum |
| Tyre Size | 205/60 R16 | 205/60 R16 |
| Safety Rating | 4-Star (Bharat NCAP) | 4-Star (Bharat NCAP) |
These specifications highlight the Basalt’s engineering prowess, offering a balance of power, efficiency, and practicality tailored to Indian roads.
Variants
The Citroen Basalt is available in three primary variants—You, Plus, and Max—each catering to different buyer preferences. Below is a table detailing the variants and their key features, ensuring a clear understanding of what each trim offers.
| Variant | Engine Option | Transmission | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| You | 1.2L NA Petrol (80 bhp) | 5-Speed Manual | ABS, Dual Airbags, TPMS, Manual AC, Power Steering, Basic Infotainment |
| Plus | 1.2L NA Petrol (80 bhp) / Turbo (109 bhp) | 5-Speed Manual / 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed AT | 10.2-inch Touchscreen, Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, 6 Airbags, ESC, Auto AC |
| Max | 1.2L Turbo Petrol (109 bhp) | 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed AT | LED Headlamps, 7-inch Digital Cluster, Wireless Charging, Adjustable Thigh Support |
The You variant serves as the entry-level option, focusing on affordability and essential features. The Plus variant strikes a balance between value and premium offerings, while the Max variant is the top-spec trim, loaded with advanced features and available exclusively with the turbo engine.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Citroen Basalt varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table showcasing the on-road prices (as of March 2025) for key variants in major Indian metro cities, based on data from CarDekho and CarWale.
| City | You (Ex-Showroom: ₹8.25 Lakh) | Plus Turbo MT (Ex-Showroom: ₹11.77 Lakh) | Max Turbo AT DT (Ex-Showroom: ₹14 Lakh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | ₹9.38 Lakh | ₹13.71 Lakh | ₹16.20 Lakh |
| Mumbai | ₹9.65 Lakh | ₹14.10 Lakh | ₹16.65 Lakh |
| Bangalore | ₹9.84 Lakh | ₹14.35 Lakh | ₹16.95 Lakh |
| Chennai | ₹9.75 Lakh | ₹14.25 Lakh | ₹16.80 Lakh |
| Kolkata | ₹9.50 Lakh | ₹13.85 Lakh | ₹16.35 Lakh |
These prices are approximate and subject to change based on dealer offers, additional accessories, and year-end discounts. The Basalt’s competitive pricing undercuts many rivals, making it an attractive proposition in metro markets.
About the Citroen Basalt
Design and Styling
The Citroen Basalt’s design is its defining feature, setting it apart in a sea of boxy SUVs. The sloping roofline lends it a coupe-like silhouette, while the front fascia, shared with the C3 Aircross, exudes a rugged charm with LED projector headlamps and sleek LED DRLs. The 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, though slightly small for its proportions, complement the overall aesthetic. The rear, with its 3D-effect taillamps and high approach/departure angles, enhances its SUV credentials. Available in five monotone colors—Polar White, Steel Grey, Platinum Grey, Cosmo Blue, and Garnet Red—and two dual-tone options with a Perla Nera Black roof, the Basalt offers ample customization for buyers seeking a personalized touch.
From a side profile, the Basalt’s best-in-segment wheelbase of 2651 mm ensures a balanced stance, though some critics note it appears rear-heavy from certain angles. The high seating position and slim A-pillars provide excellent visibility, a boon for city driving. However, the sloping roof slightly compromises rear headroom, a trade-off for its stylish silhouette. Citroen has reinforced the chassis for improved crashworthiness, earning the Basalt a commendable 4-star Bharat NCAP safety rating, a testament to its structural integrity.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, the Basalt offers two engine options, both based on the 1.2-litre PureTech petrol platform. The naturally aspirated version delivers 80 bhp and 115 Nm, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. It’s adequate for leisurely drives, offering a claimed mileage of 18 kmpl, ideal for budget-conscious buyers. The turbocharged variant, producing 109 bhp and up to 205 Nm (with the automatic), is the star performer. Available with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic, it delivers peppy acceleration and effortless cruising, with ARAI-certified mileage figures of 19.5 kmpl (MT) and 18.7 kmpl (AT). Real-world tests, however, suggest city mileage hovers around 14 kmpl for the turbo AT, rising to 17 kmpl on highways.
The Basalt’s ride quality is a highlight, thanks to its absorbent suspension setup—MacPherson struts upfront and a twist beam at the rear. It glides over potholes and uneven surfaces with ease, a trait Citroen has perfected across its Indian lineup. Handling is decent, though the soft suspension and high ground clearance mean some body roll in corners. The steering is light, making it a breeze in traffic, but it lacks the feedback enthusiasts might crave. Overall, the Basalt prioritizes comfort over sportiness, aligning with its family-oriented ethos.
Interior and Features
Step inside, and the Basalt impresses with its spacious cabin. The 470-litre boot is class-leading, with a wide opening for easy loading. The rear seats, equipped with three-step adjustable thigh support and winged headrests, elevate comfort, especially on long journeys. Front seats are supportive, and the driving position is adjustable, aided by a tilt steering wheel. The dashboard sports a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, paired with a 7-inch digital driver’s display in higher trims. Other creature comforts include automatic climate control, rear AC vents, and wireless phone charging.
However, the Basalt isn’t without flaws. The absence of a sunroof—a feature rivals flaunt—might disappoint some buyers. Material quality is inconsistent, with hard plastics dominating the cabin, a cost-cutting measure that contrasts with its premium aspirations. Safety features are robust, with 6 airbags, ESC, and a tyre pressure monitoring system in mid and top variants, though it lacks ADAS functionalities found in competitors like the Creta.
Driving Experience
The Basalt’s driving dynamics cater to relaxed, everyday use. The turbo engine’s low-end torque ensures quick overtakes, while the automatic gearbox shifts smoothly, albeit with a slight lag under hard acceleration. Braking, with ventilated discs upfront and drums at the rear, is confidence-inspiring. Road noise is well-contained, and the cabin feels isolated from external clatter, enhancing the premium feel. On highways, the Basalt cruises effortlessly, though its 1.2-litre engine feels underpowered compared to the larger turbo units in rivals like the Creta or Seltos.
User reviews praise its comfortable ride and spaciousness, with one owner noting a 4230 km trip yielding 18 kmpl—an impressive feat for a 1.2-litre engine. However, some criticize the poor city mileage (7-8 kmpl in heavy traffic) and basic features like the lack of a master door lock button, hinting at Citroen’s cost-saving compromises.
Pricing and Value for Money
The Basalt’s pricing is its trump card. Starting at ₹8.25 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base You variant and topping out at ₹14 lakh for the Max Turbo AT dual-tone, it undercuts most competitors. The mid-spec Plus variant, priced between ₹9.99 lakh and ₹13.07 lakh, offers the best bang for the buck with its blend of features and performance. Compared to the Tata Curvv (starting at ₹10 lakh) or Hyundai Creta (₹11 lakh onwards), the Basalt delivers comparable utility at a lower cost, though it sacrifices some power and tech.
Close Competitors
The Citroen Basalt faces stiff competition in the compact SUV and coupe SUV segments. Here’s how it stacks up against its close competitors:
Tata Curvv
The Tata Curvv, a direct rival in the coupe SUV space, starts at ₹10 lakh and offers a more powerful 1.2L turbo petrol (120 bhp) and a diesel option—something the Basalt lacks. It boasts a 5-star Global NCAP rating, a panoramic sunroof, and ADAS features, giving it an edge in safety and tech. However, the Curvv’s higher pricing and less spacious boot (422 litres vs. 470 litres) make the Basalt a better value proposition for budget buyers.
Hyundai Creta
The Hyundai Creta, a segment leader, starts at ₹11 lakh and offers a range of engines, including a 1.5L turbo petrol (160 bhp). Its feature list—panoramic sunroof, ventilated seats, and Level 2 ADAS—outshines the Basalt. Yet, the Creta’s premium pricing and smaller 433-litre boot position the Basalt as a more practical, affordable alternative for those prioritizing space and cost.
Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos (₹10.90 lakh onwards) mirrors the Creta’s strengths with a 1.5L turbo petrol (160 bhp), a sunroof, and a tech-laden cabin. Its sportier design and brand appeal attract younger buyers, but the 433-litre boot and higher price tag cede ground to the Basalt’s practicality and value.
Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
The Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara (₹10.87 lakh onwards) brings hybrid efficiency (27.97 kmpl) and a strong service network to the table. It lacks a coupe design but offers AWD in top trims. The Basalt counters with its unique styling and lower entry price, though it can’t match Maruti’s fuel efficiency or resale value.
Verdict
The Citroen Basalt shines as a stylish, practical, and affordable coupe SUV, ideal for buyers seeking a distinctive vehicle without breaking the bank. It excels in ride comfort, boot space, and pricing but lags in power, premium features, and refinement compared to rivals. For those prioritizing value and individuality over outright performance or tech, the Basalt is a compelling choice in a crowded market.
In conclusion, the Citroen Basalt redefines the compact SUV segment with its coupe-inspired design and thoughtful engineering. Whether navigating metro traffic or embarking on a highway journey, it delivers a balanced experience that resonates with modern Indian buyers. As Citroen continues to expand its footprint in India, the Basalt stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and affordability.
