The Citroen Basalt is a new SUV that offers a blend of comfort and practicality, positioned as a value alternative in the sub-4 meter segment. While it boasts a spacious and well-designed interior, particularly in the back seat, it faces challenges with its variant offerings and feature set compared to competitors. Overall, it represents a step forward for Citroen in India, but potential buyers should carefully consider their options.
In this episode of Motor Inc First, we delve into the Citroen Basalt, the latest addition to Citroen's lineup in India. Named after the popular volcanic rock, the Basalt aims to make a mark in the competitive sub-4 meter SUV segment. This review will cover its design, features, performance, and overall value proposition.
The name "Basalt" signifies strength and popularity, aligning with Citroen's aspirations for this vehicle. Unlike its predecessors, the Basalt has moved away from the C3 naming convention, which had caused confusion among customers. The Basalt is essentially a reimagined version of the C3 Aircross, featuring a different design but sharing many mechanical components.
The Basalt is priced between 8 lakh to 13 lakh rupees, clearly positioning it below the C3 Aircross. This pricing strategy aims to compete with sub-4 meter SUVs like the Hyundai Creta and Mahindra XUV300, offering a compelling value proposition. However, the entry-level variant at 8 lakh lacks essential features, making it less appealing.
The Citroen Basalt features a sleek, swooping body style that gives it a premium appearance. While it may not be the most flamboyant design on the market, it is stylish and modern. The front end shares similarities with the C3 Aircross, while the rear has been redesigned to enhance its sporty look.
One of the standout aspects of the Basalt is its spacious and comfortable interior, particularly in the back seat. The vehicle includes several improvements over previous models, such as:
The back seat features innovative adjustments for under-thigh support, making it one of the most comfortable in its class. The rear air vents and armrest add to the overall comfort, making it suitable for long journeys.
The Basalt is available with two engine options: a naturally aspirated 1.2L engine and a turbocharged 1.2L engine. The turbo variant, producing 110 horsepower, is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth driving experience. However, the naturally aspirated engine, particularly in the base variant, is seen as underwhelming and stripped down.
During the test drive in Goa, the Basalt demonstrated familiar driving dynamics akin to the C3 Aircross. It handled well on both city roads and highways, offering a composed ride. However, some reviewers noted that the driving experience felt less engaging compared to its predecessor, with a slight disconnect in the automatic transmission's responsiveness.
The Basalt offers a spacious cabin, a large boot, and a comfortable back seat, making it a practical choice for families. However, the variant offerings and feature set raise concerns. The base model lacks essential features, and the pricing strategy may not appeal to all buyers.
The Citroen Basalt represents a significant step forward for the brand in India, showcasing improvements in design, comfort, and safety. While it offers a compelling back seat experience and a spacious interior, potential buyers should carefully evaluate the variant options and consider how they align with their needs. Overall, the Basalt is a solid contender in the sub-4 meter SUV segment, but it may not be the best fit for everyone.
