Citroën Basalt vs Rivals: Is This SUV-Coupe Worth Buying in India?

 

The Citroën Basalt is a newly launched SUV-coupe in India, priced between ₹7.95 lakh and ₹13.11 lakh (ex-showroom). It offers stylish design, spacious interiors, and a comfortable ride—but falls short on engine performance and some features.

Citroën Basalt: Launch & Overview

• Launch Date: August 2024
• Price Range: ₹7.95 lakh to ₹13.11 lakh (ex-showroom) 
• Segment: Compact SUV-coupe
• Positioning: Competes with Tata Curvv (upcoming), Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet

Key Features

• Engines:
• 1.2L Naturally Aspirated Petrol
• 1.2L Turbo Petrol (more peppy and fun-to-drive)
• Transmission: 6-speed Manual or Automatic
• Infotainment:
• 10.2-inch touchscreen
• Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
• Connected car tech
• Safety:
• 6 airbags standard
• 4-star BCAP safety rating
• Comfort:
• Rear seats with adjustable under-thigh support
• Soft bolstered headrests
• Boot Space: 470 litres

Variants

• Basalt X is the main trim line
• Available in 9 variants across engine and transmission options

Pros

• Unique SUV-coupe styling with sloping roofline and tall stance
• Spacious cabin with smart storage
• Peppy turbo engine offers engaging drive
• Excellent ride quality thanks to Citroën’s suspension tuning
• Feature-rich interior for the price point

Cons

• Naturally aspirated engine feels underpowered
• Missing premium features like sunroof, ventilated seats in lower trims
• Limited brand service network compared to Maruti or Hyundai
• No diesel option, which may deter some buyers