French automaker Citroen is stirring up the Indian car market with the upcoming launch of their new Citroen Basalt SUV-coupe. This sleek and sporty vehicle is poised to make its global debut early next month, followed by a swift arrival in Indian showrooms. Production for the Basalt kicked off in June, and Citroen is expected to officially unveil the car shortly after its international launch.
Citroen Basalt: Blending Functionality with Style
The Basalt boasts a captivating design that merges the functionality of an SUV with the sporty elegance of a coupe. While the front fascia borrows design cues from the Citroen C3 Aircross, with a slightly modified grille finish, the most striking feature is the sloping roofline that creates the distinctive coupe silhouette. New alloy wheels and a redesigned rear end with fresh taillights and a chunky two-tone bumper further accentuate the Basalt’s dynamic look.
Interior Comfort with Technological Enhancements
Although Citroen has yet to fully reveal the Basalt’s interior, automotive experts anticipate a layout similar to the C3 Aircross, but with a significant upgrade in features. The cabin is expected to pamper occupants with a large 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity for seamless smartphone integration. A digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and cruise control are likely additions, along with modern conveniences like wireless charging and keyless entry and go for added comfort and ease-of-use.
Powertrain: Proven Performance
The Basalt will borrow the tried-and-tested 1.2-liter turbo-petrol engine from its C3 Aircross sibling, delivering a healthy 110hp and 205Nm of torque. This engine is expected to be paired with two transmission options: a smooth-shifting 6-speed manual gearbox or an optional 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission. Both options will come with front-wheel drive for a responsive and engaging driving experience.
Competitive Pricing and Market Positioning
Citroen plans to position the Basalt above the C3 Aircross in their lineup, with an anticipated starting price range of Rs 11 lakh to Rs 12 lakh. This places the Basalt in a slightly higher price bracket compared to the C3 Aircross. However, the Basalt’s unique combination of style, features, and performance is expected to attract a strong customer base. The car will directly compete with the upcoming Tata Curvv, another highly anticipated SUV-coupe in the Indian market. Additionally, the Basalt is likely to challenge established mid-size SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Honda Elevate.
The Citroen Basalt’s arrival in India promises to shake up the mid-size SUV segment with its blend of bold design, feature-rich interior, and proven powertrain. With its competitive pricing strategy, Citroen is aiming to capture a significant share of the market, particularly among buyers seeking a stylish and feature-loaded SUV-coupe experience. The upcoming head-to-head battle between the Basalt and the Tata Curvv is sure to be an exciting one for Indian car enthusiasts.