Citroen Basalt Coupe SUV Revealed Officially: Specs and Features
The Citroen Basalt is the fourth model in Citroen’s C-Cubed program, specifically designed for developing markets, including India. Officially unveiled recently, the Basalt coupe-SUV is set to compete in the midsize SUV segment, offering a fresh and stylish alternative for Indian consumers.
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Citroen Basalt Exterior Design
The production-spec Citroen Basalt closely resembles the initial design sketches, featuring a matte plastic finish for the body cladding. The Basalt shares its underpinnings with the C3 Aircross SUV, with a similar fascia and chrome-lined Chevron logo. Notably, it introduces projector headlamps—a first for a C-Cubed model in India.
The Basalt’s profile is distinct, with squared-off cladding over the wheel arches, a pinched window line, and a smoothly flowing roofline. It rides on stylish 17-inch alloy wheels and retains the pull-type door handles from the C3 Aircross. The rear end features a contoured tailgate, halogen tail lamps with a 3D effect, and a dual-tone bumper.
The Basalt is available in five monotone color options: Polar White, Steel Grey, Platinum Grey, Cosmo Blue, and Garnet Red. The white and red variants also offer a contrast black roof.
Citroen Basalt Interior and Features
Inside, the Basalt borrows its dashboard design from the C3 Aircross but with notable upgrades. It features a new HVAC panel with digital readouts and auto AC, a larger front armrest, and restyled rear headrests. The rear bench seat offers adjustable thigh support, a segment-first feature. The Basalt’s boot can carry up to 470 liters of luggage, with rear AC vents enhancing passenger comfort.
Higher-spec variants of the Basalt include a 10.25-inch floating touchscreen and a 7-inch all-digital instrument cluster. The vehicle also offers a 15W wireless smartphone charger and connected car technology. Citroen’s signature design elements are present throughout the interior, with a mix of gloss black and textured surfaces adding flair.
All Basalt variants come equipped with six airbags, ESP, hill-hold assist, and a tire pressure monitor as standard safety features.
The Hyundai Creta has built a strong brand image over the years. Since its first launch in India almost nine years ago, the Creta has become a benchmark for new SUVs in its segment. The widespread sales and service network of Hyundai, coupled with low maintenance costs and a great ownership experience, has resulted in high resale values for the Creta.
Citroen Basalt Powertrain and Specifications
The Basalt is powered by two 1.2-liter petrol engine options. The naturally aspirated unit delivers 82hp and 115Nm of torque, while the turbo-petrol engine offers 110hp and 190Nm or 205Nm of torque, depending on the transmission. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual for the NA engine and a 6-speed manual or torque converter automatic for the turbo-petrol engine.
Citroen claims the Basalt achieves fuel efficiency figures of 18kpl for the NA petrol engine, 19.5kpl for the turbo-petrol manual, and 18.7kpl for the turbo-petrol automatic.
Rivals and Market Position
The Citroen Basalt enters the midsize SUV segment, directly competing with the Tata Curvv coupe-SUV. Other rivals include the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Honda Elevate. The Basalt’s unique coupe-SUV design and feature-rich offering position it as an attractive choice for consumers.
What are the engine options for the Citroen Basalt?
The Citroen Basalt offers two 1.2-liter petrol engine options: an 82hp naturally aspirated unit and a 110hp turbo-petrol engine.
What safety features does the Citroen Basalt include?
The Basalt comes with six airbags, ESP, hill-hold assist, and a tire pressure monitor as standard across all variants.
What are the color options available for the Citroen Basalt?
The Citroen Basalt is available in Polar White, Steel Grey, Platinum Grey, Cosmo Blue, and Garnet Red, with white and red variants also offering a contrast black roof.