Citroen has unveiled its latest compact SUV coupe, the Citroen Basalt. This vehicle joins the highly competitive market, ready to compete with models like the Tata Curvv, Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and others. The Basalt is part of Citroen’s C-Cubed lineup, following the C3 and C3 Aircross. It is expected to be positioned above the C3 and eC3, and alongside the C3 Aircross SUV.
Citroen Basalt: A New Compact SUV-Coupe
Exterior Design
The Citroen Basalt boasts a distinct SUV style with a coupe-like appearance. Key features include split headlamps, V-shaped LED DRLs, and wraparound halogen taillights. The vehicle has a large split grille, faux silver skid plates, and square-ish wheel arches. The high boot lid proudly displays the Citroen logo.
The Basalt’s coupe appeal is enhanced by a sloping roofline and new 16-inch alloy wheels. Additional design elements include a shark fin antenna, dual-tone bumper in silver and black, and plastic cladding on the wheel arches. Body-colored door handles add a sleek touch. The Basalt offers five exterior color options: Garnet Red, Cosmo Blue, Polar White, Steel Grey, and Platinum Grey, with dual-tone options featuring a black roof paired with Garnet Red or Polar White.
Interior Features
Inside, the Citroen Basalt offers a range of premium features. Beige leatherette upholstery, front and rear armrests, and rear AC vents ensure comfort. Adjustable under-thigh support for rear passengers, sophisticated rear headrests, and automatic climate control add to the luxurious feel. Safety features include six airbags.
The infotainment system features a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The 7-inch instrument screen remains from previous models. Other conveniences include a wireless smartphone charging pad, electrically adjustable ORVMs, steering-mounted controls, cruise control, and a 470-liter boot space.
Engine Specifications
The Citroen Basalt shares its engine options with the C3 hatchback. It offers a naturally aspirated 1.2L engine and a turbocharged 1.2L engine. The naturally aspirated version produces 81 bhp and 115 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed gearbox. The turbocharged version offers 108 bhp, with a 6-speed manual (195 Nm) or a 6-speed automatic (205 Nm).
Fuel efficiency for the Basalt is estimated at 18 km/l for the naturally aspirated petrol engine, 19.5 km/l for the turbocharged manual, and 18.7 km/l for the turbocharged automatic.
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Competition and Price
The Citroen Basalt will compete in the coupe-SUV segment against the Tata Curvv. It will also rival popular models like the Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Toyota Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and MG Astor. The Basalt will be priced similarly to the C3 Aircross, which ranges from Rs. 9.99 lakh to Rs. 14.33 lakh (ex-showroom).
Summary
Citroen has introduced the Basalt as a stylish and competitive addition to its SUV lineup. With its unique design, premium interior features, and efficient engine options, the Basalt aims to attract buyers looking for a compact SUV with a coupe-like appeal. It is set to face tough competition in a crowded market but promises to offer a distinctive option for SUV enthusiasts.
Mansoor Ali, a Feature Writer, embarked on his journey five years ago with showroomex.com, fueled by his enthusiasm for cars. Starting as an eager journalist, he quickly became a seasoned professional, expanding his expertise to cover both bikes and cars. (Full Bio)