Citroen has made a bold move in India’s compact SUV segment with the launch of the Basalt, a striking SUV-coupe designed to attract attention with its unique styling, competitive pricing, and practical features. The Citroën Basalt is priced at an introductory ₹7.99 lakh (ex-showroom), making it an attractive option for those seeking a stylish vehicle that doesn’t compromise on essential features. Here’s a detailed look at what the Basalt brings to the table.

Distinctive Design: Blending Style with Practicality

The Citroën Basalt is more than just another SUV—it’s a statement of design and functionality. Built on the same platform as the C3 Aircross, the Basalt sports a coupe-like silhouette that sets it apart from the crowd. The sleek, sloping roofline, sharp LED tail lamps, and redesigned alloy wheels all contribute to its sporty yet elegant appearance.

The Basalt is available in five striking monotone colors: Polar White, Steel Grey, Platinum Grey, Cosmo Blue, and Garnet Red, with the option of a contrast black roof on select shades, adding a dash of sophistication. The rear of the vehicle is accentuated with a dual-tone bumper, emphasizing its rugged yet refined character.

Inside, the Basalt continues to impress with its thoughtful design and spacious layout. The dashboard, borrowed from the C3 Aircross, is both user-friendly and modern, featuring a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The cabin offers plenty of space, with a segment-first adjustable thigh support for rear passengers, ensuring comfort on long journeys. Additionally, the Basalt boasts a substantial 470-litre boot, making it practical for both everyday use and weekend getaways.

Performance: Power Options to Suit Every Driver

This new SUV comes with 2 engine options offered to customers- both being 1.2-litre petrol options units. For attaining the optimum city driving experience, one can opt for the base variant which produces 82 PS and 115 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. This setup offers a perfect balance of power and fuel efficiency.

For those seeking more performance, Citroën offers a turbocharged version of the same engine, delivering 110 PS and up to 205 Nm of torque. This variant is available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission, catering to drivers who desire a more spirited driving experience. The turbocharged engine also offers impressive fuel efficiency, with claimed figures of up to 19.5 kmpl, making it a practical choice for both urban and highway driving.

However, it’s worth noting that the Basalt does miss out on some premium features that competitors in this segment offer, such as a sunroof, 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats, and front parking sensors. These omissions may be a drawback for buyers seeking a fully-loaded experience.

Market Positioning: A Strategic Entry into the SUV Segment

The Citroën Basalt enters a fiercely competitive market, where it will face off against established players like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and the upcoming Tata Curvv. Despite the tough competition, Citroën has strategically positioned the Basalt with a starting price that undercuts its rivals by over ₹1 lakh, making it an appealing choice for value-conscious buyers.

The Basalt’s unique design and competitive pricing are likely to resonate with younger buyers and those looking for a vehicle that stands out in a sea of conventional SUVs. While it lacks some of the top-end features found in its competitors, its strong combination of style, practicality, and affordability gives it a solid footing in the market.

Conclusion: A Strong New Entry in the Indian Market

With the launch of the Basalt, Citroën has made a compelling entry into India’s compact SUV segment. Its blend of distinctive design, practical features, and competitive pricing makes it an attractive option for a wide range of buyers. Although it may not be the most feature-packed option in its class, the Basalt’s unique character and affordability are likely to make it a popular choice.

For those looking for a stylish, practical, and reasonably priced SUV, the Citroën Basalt is certainly worth considering. As it begins to make its presence felt on Indian roads, it will be interesting to see how it fares against its well-established rivals in the months to come.