Citroen Basalt: French automotive engineering has always carried a certain mystique, and the Citroen Basalt brings that European flair to Indian roads in a package that’s surprisingly practical. This isn’t just another attempt at creating a niche SUV coupe – it’s a thoughtful interpretation of what modern Indian families actually need from their vehicles. After examining every aspect of this intriguing machine, it becomes clear that Citroen has crafted something genuinely different in a segment that’s becoming increasingly crowded with me-too products.
Design Philosophy That Balances Style with Substance
The Basalt measures 4352 mm in length, 1765 mm in width, and 1593 mm in height, creating a footprint that’s substantial enough to command road presence without becoming unwieldy in tight city spaces. The 2651 mm wheelbase provides excellent interior space while maintaining the proportions necessary for that coupe-like silhouette that sets it apart from conventional SUVs. The ground clearance of 180 mm strikes the right balance between urban usability and the occasional rough road adventure, while the kerb weight of 1240 kg keeps things manageable without feeling flimsy. What’s particularly impressive is how the sloping roofline doesn’t dramatically compromise practicality – the 470-liter boot space remains generous, and the wide hatch opening makes loading luggage surprisingly easy.
Engine Options That Deliver Real-World Performance
Under the hood, the Basalt offers two distinct personalities through its engine choices. The base 1.2-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine produces 82 PS of power and 115 Nm of torque, paired exclusively with a 5-speed manual transmission. While this might sound modest on paper, it’s perfectly adequate for everyday city driving and delivers an impressive ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of 18.7 kmpl. The real star, however, is the 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that transforms the driving experience completely. This unit generates 110 PS of power and varies its torque output depending on the transmission – 190 Nm with the 6-speed manual and 205 Nm with the 6-speed automatic. The turbo engine’s broad torque curve means it feels significantly more powerful than the numbers suggest, making highway overtaking and city acceleration genuinely enjoyable.
Transmission Choices That Cater to Different Preferences
The transmission options reflect Citroen’s understanding of diverse Indian driving preferences. The 5-speed manual paired with the naturally aspirated engine provides a straightforward, no-nonsense driving experience that’s perfect for budget-conscious buyers. The 6-speed manual with the turbo engine offers enthusiasts the control they crave while maintaining excellent fuel economy of 19.5 kmpl. The 6-speed torque converter automatic represents the sweet spot for many buyers, delivering smooth performance in stop-and-go traffic while maintaining decent fuel efficiency at 18.7 kmpl. The automatic transmission’s programming prioritizes comfort over sportiness, making it ideal for relaxed city commuting and long highway cruises.
Interior Space and Comfort Features
Inside, the Basalt proves that style doesn’t have to compromise practicality. The cabin easily accommodates five adults, with the rear seats offering adjustable underthigh support that enhances comfort on longer journeys. The dashboard layout mirrors the C3 Aircross but feels more refined, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system taking center stage. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration ensures seamless smartphone connectivity, while the automatic climate control system maintains comfortable temperatures without fuss. Storage solutions are thoughtfully placed throughout the cabin, with the 45-liter fuel tank providing excellent range between fill-ups.
Safety Technologies That Inspire Confidence
Citroen has prioritized safety across all variants, with six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, and hill-hold assist coming as standard equipment. The three-point seatbelts with reminders for all seats, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and rear parking sensors demonstrate attention to family safety needs. Higher variants add tire pressure monitoring, while the reverse camera improves parking convenience. The company has reinforced the chassis structure specifically to achieve better crash test ratings, showing commitment to passenger protection that goes beyond just adding safety features.
Citroen Basalt Value Proposition That Changes the Game
Pricing starts at Rs 8.32 lakh for the base variant and extends to Rs 14.10 lakh for the top-spec automatic variant, positioning the Basalt competitively against established players like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos. The color palette includes attractive options like Cosmo Blue, Garnet Red, Polar White, Steel Grey, and Platinum Grey, with dual-tone combinations available on select variants. The three-year or 100,000-kilometer warranty provides reassurance about long-term ownership costs, while Citroen’s growing service network addresses one of the key concerns potential buyers might have about choosing a European brand in India.