Citroën is gearing up to launch its latest model, the Citroën Basalt, in India by the second half of 2024. This upcoming crossover sedan marks the fourth model under the company’s C-Cubed programme, following the successful launches of the C3, eC3, and the C3 Aircross SUV. The Citroën Basalt stands out with its unique combination of a jacked-up ride height and a sleek, coupe-like roofline, making it a strong contender in the growing segment of midsize coupe SUVs. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of the Citroën Basalt, covering everything from its engine and performance to its features, variants, and competition in the Indian market.
A Closer Look at the Citroën Basalt
The Citroën Basalt is designed to cater to the evolving demands of modern drivers, blending style, performance, and affordability. The Basalt’s design philosophy is evident in its distinctive coupe body style, which is both sporty and practical. With a bold front grille, sharp headlamps, and muscular wheel arches, the Basalt exudes a dynamic presence on the road.
Inside, the Basalt offers a well-appointed cabin loaded with modern amenities. The interior is spacious, with premium materials and thoughtful touches that enhance comfort and convenience. Whether you’re driving in city traffic or cruising on the highway, the Citroën Basalt promises a refined and enjoyable driving experience.
Engine Options and Performance
The Citroën Basalt comes with a 1.2-litre petrol engine available in two states of tune. This engine is engineered to deliver a balanced mix of power and efficiency, catering to a wide range of driving preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the engine specifications:
| Engine Type | Power Output | Torque | Transmission Options | 0-100 km/h (Turbo) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Naturally Aspirated | 80 bhp @ 5750 rpm | 115 Nm | 5-speed Manual | – |
| Turbocharged | 109 bhp @ 5500 rpm | 190 Nm | 6-speed Manual, 6-speed Torque Converter Automatic | 9.96 seconds |
The naturally aspirated version produces 80 bhp, making it suitable for daily commutes, while the turbocharged variant generates 109 bhp and 190 Nm of peak torque, offering more spirited performance. Citroën claims that the turbo variant can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 9.96 seconds, a figure that should appeal to those who enjoy a bit of speed on the open road.
Citroën Basalt Key Specifications
The Citroën Basalt is packed with features and specifications that make it a versatile and appealing choice for many buyers. Below is a detailed table highlighting its key specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | ₹ 7.99 – 13.83 Lakh |
| Fuel Type | Petrol |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual, 6-speed Automatic (TC) |
| Engine Size | 1199 cc |
| Mileage | 18 – 19.5 km/l |
| Seating Capacity | 5 People |
| Dimensions | 4352 mm L x 1765 mm W x 1593 mm H |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 litres |
| Boot Space | 470 litres |
| Safety Rating | Not crash-tested by NCAP |
The Basalt’s dimensions and seating capacity make it a practical choice for families and urban dwellers alike. With a generous boot space of 470 litres, it offers ample room for luggage, making it suitable for weekend getaways or long road trips.
Design and Features
One of the standout features of the Citroën Basalt is its design, which combines the ruggedness of an SUV with the elegance of a coupe. The exterior is characterized by its sleek roofline, which seamlessly integrates with the car’s overall profile. The 16-inch alloy wheels add to its sporty appeal, while the projector headlamps ensure excellent visibility in all driving conditions.
Inside, the Basalt offers a host of features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. The cabin is equipped with a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring that you stay connected on the go. The digital instrument cluster provides all the necessary driving information at a glance, while the automatic climate control system maintains a comfortable cabin temperature.
Other notable features include:
- Wireless Charger: A convenient way to keep your devices powered up without the need for cables.
- Rear AC Vents with USB Port: Ensures that passengers in the back seat stay cool and connected.
- Rear Armrest with Cupholders: Adds a touch of luxury and practicality for rear-seat passengers.
- Satin Chrome Accents: Found throughout the cabin, these accents add a premium feel to the interior.
Variants and Pricing
The Citroën Basalt is available in three main variants: You, Plus, and Max. Each variant offers a different set of features and options, allowing buyers to choose the model that best suits their needs. Below is a table that summarizes the available variants, their pricing, and key specifications:
| Variant | Price | Engine & Transmission |
|---|---|---|
| You 1.2 Petrol MT | ₹ 7.99 Lakh | 1199 cc, 5-speed Manual |
| Plus 1.2 Petrol MT | ₹ 9.99 Lakh | 1199 cc, 5-speed Manual |
| Plus 1.2 Turbo Petrol MT | ₹ 11.49 Lakh | 1199 cc, 6-speed Manual |
| Max 1.2 Turbo Petrol MT | ₹ 12.28 Lakh | 1199 cc, 6-speed Manual |
| Max 1.2 Turbo Petrol MT Dual Tone | ₹ 12.49 Lakh | 1199 cc, 6-speed Manual |
| Plus 1.2 Turbo Petrol AT | ₹ 12.79 Lakh | 1199 cc, 6-speed Torque Converter Automatic |
| Max 1.2 Turbo Petrol AT | ₹ 13.62 Lakh | 1199 cc, 6-speed Torque Converter Automatic |
| Max 1.2 Turbo Petrol AT Dual Tone | ₹ 13.83 Lakh | 1199 cc, 6-speed Torque Converter Automatic |
Color Options
The Citroën Basalt is available in a variety of colors, allowing buyers to choose the shade that best reflects their personality. The available color options include:
- Polar White
- Steel Grey
- Platinum Grey
- Cosmo Blue
- Garnet Red
- Polar White with Perla Nera Black Roof
- Garnet Red with Perla Nera Black Roof
These color options, combined with the Basalt’s stylish design, make it a head-turner on the road.
Safety Features
While the Citroën Basalt has not yet undergone crash testing by NCAP, it is expected to come equipped with a range of safety features typical of modern vehicles in its class. These may include:
- ABS with EBD: Ensures optimal braking performance and stability.
- Dual Front Airbags: Provides essential protection for the driver and front passenger.
- Rear Parking Sensors: Helps in maneuvering the vehicle in tight spaces.
- ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors: Ensures the safe installation of child seats.
Citroën is likely to provide more detailed information about the Basalt’s safety features closer to its official launch.
Competition
In the Indian market, the Citroën Basalt faces competition from several models in the midsize SUV and coupe SUV segments. Its primary rival is the Tata Curvv, another coupe SUV that shares a similar design philosophy. In terms of pricing, the Basalt also competes with popular models like:
- Hyundai Creta
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara
- MG Astor
- Honda Elevate
- Toyota Hyryder
- Kia Seltos
- Skoda Kushaq
- Volkswagen Taigun
Each of these models has its strengths, but the Citroën Basalt aims to differentiate itself with its unique design, feature-rich interior, and competitive pricing.
Conclusion
The Citroën Basalt is poised to make a significant impact in the midsize coupe SUV segment. With its stylish design, robust engine options, and a host of modern features, it offers a compelling option for buyers looking for a vehicle that blends style and practicality. Whether you’re navigating the busy streets of a city or embarking on a long road trip, the Citroën Basalt promises to deliver a refined and enjoyable driving experience. As the launch date approaches, it will be interesting to see how the Basalt fares against its competitors in the Indian market.