Citroen Basalt coupe SUV: Top five things to know

Citroen India recently revealed the Citroen Basalt Coupe SUV concept globally. Formerly known as the C3X, the SUV will directly go against the upcoming Tata Curvv. Citroen says that the name ‘Basalt’ is inspired by volcanic rock, embodying robustness and timeless serenity. The Basalt will be produced in India and will also be exported to South American markets.In this article, let’s take a look at the top five things you need to know.
Platform
The new Citroen Basalt Coupe SUV will be based on the French automaker‘s highly versatile CMP platform. The Basalt is the fourth and final model under this platform following the C3 and eC3 hatchbacks and the C3 Aircross SUV.

Design
In terms of design, the front facia of the Basalt looks very similar to the existing C3 and C3 Aircross. It features a different finish for the grille inserts and you also get the same chrome-lined Chevron logo at the top and a two-part grille and a faux silver skid plate. The design of the LED DRLs and the bonnet remains the same but one step up here is that the Basalt features a projector setup for the headlamps instead of the halogen units seen on other C-Cubed models.

On the sides, it features multi-spoke alloy wheels which will likely measure 17 inches and it also gets more prominent squared-off wheel arches. The SUV retains the pull-type door handles and the pinched window line smoothly flows to meet the boot. At the rear, the boot lid is positioned higher than the bonnet and it features a stubby rear end with clean surfacing. It also gets wraparound LED taillamps with a chunky silver skid plate, shark fin antenna and dual-tone bumper finished in black and silver.
Interior
The interior of the Basalt will be revealed at a later date. We expect it to be in line with the rest of the C3 range. It’s expected to get a large touchscreen infotainment with a fully digital instrument cluster. Other expected features include automatic climate control, connected car tech, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, electric ORVMs, push-button start, rear AC vents, cruise control and more.

Engine and gearbox
Talking about the powertrain, the Basalt could get the same 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbocharged Petrol engine with 110 hp and 190 Nm torque. Gearbox options will include a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic.

Launch, rivals and expected price
The Basalt will be launched in India in the second half of 2024 and as mentioned before it will directly go up against the upcoming Tata Curvv. The new Basalt will also rival the likes of Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Volkswagen Taigun, Toyota Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, MG Astor, and Honda Elevate. We expect a starting price of Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom).