Citroen Basalt

Expert Review by Maxabout

This is Citroen’s entry into India’s burgeoning coupe SUV segment. It was launched on August 9, 2024 and aims to merge style, comfort and practicality in a fiercely competitive market. Consequently, this article looks at Citroen Basalt design, performance, features and market positioning based on expert reviews and user feedback.

Design and Aesthetics

The Citroen Basalt has a unique coupe SUV design that is characterized by its sloping roofline suggesting sportiness even in an SUV stance. The exterior boasts LED projector headlamps, twin-slat grille as well as wraparound tail lamps thus giving it a modern look that stands out. While the 16-inch alloy wheels are fashionable, some have argued that bigger wheels would complete its boldness better.

On the interior side, Basalt cabin gives a feeling of space and comfort. The use of fancy materials such as textured light gold inserts or piano black accents makes this cabin classy. Although it is visually appealing all white upholstery may need extra care for its maintenance. It also comes equipped with a 10.2 inch touchscreen infotainment system which supports wireless Apple Car Play along with Android Auto making it tech-savvy.

Engine and Performance

Citroen Basalt has two petrol engine options; one being a naturally aspirated engine having capacity of 1.2l producing eighty bhp whilst generating torque worth 115 Nm whereas another turbocharged power plant (1.2l) produces one hundred nine bhp besides delivering torque amounting to one ninety Nm. Furthermore, there’s also availability of either manual or automatic transmissions (six-speed).

Its smooth power delivery makes it an excellent choice for city driving as well as highway cruising since the turbo engine provides linear acceleration everywhere within the entire range reachable by accelerator pedal. When riding over bumps the Basalt’s suspension is quite good at absorbing them which guarantees passengers’ comfort.

Features and Technology

The Citroen Basalt has a number of features aimed at making driving more comfortable as well as convenient. It boasts automatic climate control, a wireless charger and a digital instrument cluster. Although some buyers may have expected to get premium features like sunroof, keyless entry or high-end audio system but it doesn’t have any.

Safety is paramount to Basalt since it comes with six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC) and rear parking camera along with sensors that are standard. This implies that Citroen is more concerned with the safety of its customers than any other thing if you consider how many safety features they offer in this vehicle yet the NCAP tests for Basalt have not been conducted till now.

Market Position and Competition

Starting from Rs 7.99 lakh, the Citroen Basalt has been positioned as an affordable stylish choice in the coupe SUV segment. Some of its rivals include Tata Curvv and Hyundai Creta among others who also belong to the mid-size SUVs category where competition is stiff. With a combination of uniqueness in styling together with reasonable pricing, the Basalt makes an appealing option for car buyers looking to buy something different other than just a practical family car that would fit their budgets as well.

User Feedback and Expert Opinions

Users, on the other hand, appreciate Basalt’s roomy interior, easy road travel and unique designs. Nevertheless, there are comments that suggest some areas need modernization in terms of features and rear view. Experts praise the engineering of Basalt and consider it comfy but recommend more fine-tuning in terms of feature offerings and quality of interiors.

Conclusion

Citroen's Basalt is a brave entry into the Indian coupé SUV market with remarkable balance between elegance, comfort, and practicality. While it may not have all the bells and whistles possessed by rivals; however, its sturdy body presence makes driving interestingly comfortable. As Citroen seeks to extend its presence in India, the Basalt is expected to draw buyers who want an original alternative to SUVs.