Citroen Basalt Coupe SUV: India's New Budget Flagship Set to Launch in August 2024

The automotive landscape in India is about to get more exciting with the upcoming launch of the Citroen Basalt coupe SUV. Officially revealed in its production guise, the Basalt is set to debut on August 2. As Citroen’s fourth model for India under the C-Cube programme, the Basalt aims to be the French automaker’s budget flagship, bringing a unique blend of style, features, and performance to the competitive SUV market.

Design and Exterior

The Citroen Basalt Coupe SUV has been designed to stand out with its distinctive profile and modern aesthetics. The design elements visible in spy pictures have come to life in the production version. The unique C-pillar shape, which gives the Basalt its characteristic coupe silhouette, is complemented by a rear spoiler, conventional door handles, and wrap-around taillamps.

Front end of Basalt resembles that of the C3 Aircross, featuring LED daytime running lights (DRLs) and projector headlamps that lend a sophisticated look. The vehicle’s plastic cladding now boasts a matte finish, replacing the previously seen gloss black, adding a rugged yet refined touch. The diamond-cut alloy wheels scaled down to an expected 17 inches, further enhance its sporty appeal.

Interior and Features of Citroen Basalt Coupe SUV

Inside, the Citroen Basalt offers a blend of modern technology and comfort. The cabin is equipped with a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing seamless connectivity. A digital instrument cluster and auto climate control with toggle switches add to the vehicle’s modern appeal.

The Basalt also features contoured rear headrests, a front armrest with storage, and a striking red paint option, with additional colors to be announced. However, one noticeable omission is the sunroof—a feature that has become increasingly popular in the SUV segment. While competitors like the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos offer panoramic sunroofs, the Basalt’s lack of this feature may be seen as a drawback for some potential buyers.

Performance and Engine

Under the hood, the Citroen Basalt is powered by the same 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine found in the C3 Aircross. This engine delivers 110 bhp and 205 Nm of torque, providing a balanced mix of performance and efficiency. Buyers will have the option of a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, catering to different driving preferences.

Positioning and Pricing of Citroen Basalt

Positioned above the C3 Aircross, the Citroen Basalt aims to carve out a niche in the mid-size SUV segment. Despite its premium status, the Basalt retains some old-school elements like flap-type door handles and halogen tail-lamps, which might appeal to those who appreciate a blend of traditional and modern features.

The Citroen Basalt is expected to be priced between Rs 11 lakh and Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a competitive option in its segment. This pricing strategy places it in direct competition with well-established models like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and the upcoming Tata Curvv.

Competition and Market Position

In fiercely competitive Indian SUV market, the Citroen Basalt will face stiff competition from several popular models. The Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos are among the top contenders, both offering a wide range of features, including panoramic sunroofs, which the Basalt lacks. The upcoming Tata Curvv, another major rival, is also set to include a panoramic sunroof, which could be a significant selling point for buyers seeking a feature-rich SUV.

Despite this, the Citroen Basalt brings a unique value proposition to the table with its distinctive design, advanced infotainment system, and competitive pricing. Citroen’s focus on providing a budget flagship under the C-Cube programme indicates a strategic approach to capturing a significant share of the market.

EJ’s Verdict: Final Thoughts

The launch of Citroen Basalt Coupe SUV marks an important milestone for Citroen in India. With its blend of style, technology, and performance, the Basalt is poised to attract a diverse range of buyers looking for a unique and capable SUV. While the absence of a sunroof might be a point of contention for some, the overall package offered by the Basalt makes it a compelling option in the mid-size SUV segment.

As Citroen continues to expand its presence in India, the Basalt coupe SUV represents the brand’s commitment to delivering innovative and accessible vehicles to Indian consumers. Whether you are an SUV enthusiast or a potential buyer, the Citroen Basalt is certainly a model worth considering when it hits the showrooms on August 2.

In Short

The Citroen Basalt coupe SUV is set to make a significant impact in the Indian automotive market with its official debut on August 2. Its unique design, advanced features, and competitive pricing make it a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. As we await its arrival, the anticipation continues to build for what promises to be one of Citroen’s most exciting launches in India.

The Citroen Basalt coupe SUV stands as a testament to Citroen’s innovative approach and commitment to providing value-driven vehicles to Indian consumers. As the launch date approaches, all eyes will be on this new entrant to see how it fares against established competitors and captures the imagination of SUV enthusiasts across the country.