Citroen, the French automotive marque known for its avant-garde designs and innovative approach, has officially unveiled the production-spec Basalt coupe-SUV for the Indian market. This stylish crossover marks the brand’s fourth model under the India-specific C-Cubed program, signaling its growing commitment to the burgeoning automotive landscape of the country. While primarily targeted at Indian consumers, the Basalt also has its sights set on South American and European markets, showcasing Citroen’s global ambitions.
A New Niche: The Coupe-SUV
The Basalt’s arrival introduces a fresh dynamic to the hotly contested midsize SUV segment. Positioned as a coupe-SUV, it joins the Tata Curvv as a pioneering offering in this burgeoning category. This body style, characterized by a sloping roofline and sporty silhouette, appeals to customers seeking a blend of SUV practicality and coupe-like aesthetics.
Design: A Harmonious Blend of Style and Substance
The production version of the Basalt faithfully retains the essence of the design sketches showcased earlier in the year. While the glossy black body cladding has been replaced with a more practical matte finish, the overall design language remains captivating. The front fascia, though reminiscent of the C3 Aircross, benefits from a subtle refinement with a distinct grille pattern and the introduction of projector headlamps – a first for a C-Cubed model in India. The LED daytime running lights, however, carry over from its platform-sharing sibling.
The side profile is where the Basalt truly stands out. Squared-off wheel arches adorned with matte black cladding lend a rugged demeanor, while the pinched window line and smoothly flowing roofline create an elegant silhouette. The 16-inch alloy wheels add a touch of sophistication, though the pull-type door handles seem like a missed opportunity for a more premium feel. The rear end is characterized by a well-proportioned tailgate, 3D effect LED tail lamps, and a robust dual-tone bumper.
Color options for the Basalt include a palette of five monotone shades – Polar White, Steel Grey, Platinum Grey, Cosmo Blue, and Garnet Red. For those seeking a bolder look, two dual-tone combinations are available, featuring a contrasting black roof on the white and red variants.
Interior: A Comfortable and Tech-Forward Cabin
Stepping inside the Basalt, one is greeted by a familiar yet upgraded cabin layout. The dashboard, inherited from the C3 Aircross, has been enhanced with a new HVAC panel featuring digital readouts, toggle switches, and the welcome addition of automatic climate control. The front seats benefit from a larger armrest with integrated storage, while the rear passengers enjoy the comfort of adjustable thigh support – a segment-first feature.
The 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system takes center stage, offering a blend of connectivity and entertainment. Complementing this is a 7-inch digital instrument cluster that provides clear and essential driving information. Citroen’s signature design elements, such as the C-Cubed motif on the AC vents and steering wheel, add a touch of brand identity to the interior.
Safety is a paramount concern, and the Basalt comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of features, including six airbags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), hill-hold assist, and a tyre pressure monitor as standard across all variants.
Powertrain: A Choice of Efficient Engines
Citroen offers two petrol engine options for the Basalt to cater to diverse driving preferences. The first is a naturally aspirated 1.2-liter unit generating 82 horsepower and 115 Nm of torque, paired with a five-speed manual transmission. For those seeking more performance, a turbocharged 1.2-liter engine is available, producing 110 horsepower and 190 Nm of torque. This engine can be mated to either a six-speed manual or a six-speed torque converter automatic transmission.
Fuel efficiency is a key consideration, and Citroen claims impressive figures of 18 kmpl for the naturally aspirated petrol, 19.5 kmpl for the turbo-petrol manual, and 18.7 kmpl for the turbo-petrol automatic.
A Strong Contender in a Competitive Market
The Citroen Basalt enters a fiercely competitive midsize SUV segment, facing stiff competition from established players like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Honda Elevate. However, its unique coupe-SUV design, coupled with a feature-rich package and efficient powertrains, positions it as a compelling option for customers seeking a stylish and practical vehicle.
As the automotive market continues to evolve, the Citroen Basalt represents a bold step forward for the French brand, demonstrating its commitment to offering innovative and desirable products to Indian consumers.