The Indian SUV market has witnessed tremendous growth in recent years, with global and domestic carmakers fighting hard to capture buyer interest. Adding to the excitement, Citroen has launched its much-anticipated Basalt X in India at ₹9.42 lakh (ex-showroom).
Citroen, a French automaker known for its unique design philosophy and comfort-driven engineering, has been steadily building its presence in India. After models like the C3, C3 Aircross, and C5 Aircross, the Basalt X marks Citroen’s bold step into the competitive compact SUV-coupe space. Positioned as an affordable yet stylish offering, it promises to blend European design, advanced features, and everyday practicality.
But what makes the Basalt X stand out? Let’s dive deep into its design, features, performance, and market positioning.
1. Exterior Design – Coupe-Inspired Boldness
One of the strongest highlights of the Citroen Basalt X is its design. Unlike traditional compact SUVs, the Basalt X takes inspiration from coupe-styled SUVs, making it unique in its segment.
- Front Fascia: The SUV carries Citroen’s signature split-headlamp design with LED DRLs on top and projector lamps below. The bold double-chevron logo dominates the grille.
- Side Profile: Its sloping roofline gives it a sporty coupe-SUV silhouette, rarely seen in the ₹10 lakh segment. Flared wheel arches and dual-tone alloy wheels add muscle.
- Rear Styling: The wraparound LED tail lamps, roof-mounted spoiler, and chunky bumper complete the dynamic look.
Overall, the Basalt X is an SUV that grabs attention on the road, combining sporty appeal with Citroen’s quirky European styling.
2. Interior and Comfort Features
Step inside the Citroen Basalt X, and you’ll notice the French automaker’s focus on comfort and practicality.
- Dashboard Design: Clean, modern layout with soft-touch materials in higher trims.
- Infotainment: A large 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
- Driver Display: Digital instrument cluster with customizable themes.
- Seating Comfort: Plush seats with Citroen’s advanced cushioning technology for superior ride comfort.
- Space: Despite the sloping roofline, rear passenger space is generous, and boot capacity is competitive for the segment.
The Basalt X combines European flair with practicality, making it a family-friendly compact SUV.
3. Engine and Performance
Citroen has offered the Basalt X with efficient yet powerful engine options to cater to Indian buyers.
- 1.2L Turbo Petrol Engine:
- Power: Around 110–120 PS
- Torque: 190–200 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
- Fuel Efficiency: Expected to deliver 17–19 km/l, making it competitive with rivals.
The Basalt X is tuned for city comfort and highway cruising rather than outright sportiness. Citroen’s suspension setup, known for its softness, ensures a smooth ride on Indian roads.
4. Safety Features
In today’s SUV market, safety is a top priority, and Citroen hasn’t compromised with the Basalt X.
Key safety features include:
- 6 airbags (top variants)
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Hill Hold Assist
- Rear parking sensors & camera
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
With growing awareness about crash safety ratings, the Basalt X is expected to perform well in safety tests, giving buyers extra confidence.
5. Technology and Connectivity
The Basalt X doesn’t shy away from modern technology.
- Wireless phone charger
- Keyless entry with push-button start
- Automatic climate control
- Voice recognition system
- Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
- Connected car technology with remote access features
These inclusions make the Basalt X a tech-friendly SUV for today’s connected buyers.
6. Pricing and Variants
The Citroen Basalt X has been launched at ₹9.42 lakh (ex-showroom) for the entry variant, making it an attractive option in the competitive SUV segment. Higher trims with advanced features and automatic transmission are expected to go up to ₹12–13 lakh.
This pricing strategy makes the Basalt X accessible while still offering coupe-SUV styling, something usually found in more premium cars.
7. Rivals and Market Positioning
The Basalt X will compete against some of the most popular SUVs in India:
- Hyundai Creta – Known for features and reliability.
- Kia Seltos – A favorite in design and performance.
- Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara – Strong on hybrid efficiency.
- Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder – Backed by Toyota’s reliability.
- Tata Nexon – India’s best-selling SUV with strong safety credentials.
However, none of these offer the coupe-SUV design in this price range, giving the Basalt X a unique edge.
8. Who Should Buy the Citroen Basalt X?
The Basalt X is ideal for:
- Young professionals looking for a stylish SUV with a distinct design.
- Small families who want comfort, space, and practicality.
- Tech-savvy buyers who value modern features and connectivity.
- Design-conscious customers who want to stand out in the crowd without spending premium SUV money.
Conclusion
The launch of the Citroen Basalt X at ₹9.42 lakh is a bold and refreshing move in the Indian auto market. With its coupe-inspired design, modern features, comfortable interiors, and competitive pricing, the Basalt X has all the ingredients to disrupt the compact SUV segment.
While it faces tough competition from established players like Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, its unique styling and Citroen’s comfort-first approach make it a strong alternative for buyers seeking something different.
If you want a stylish, tech-loaded, and comfortable SUV that stands out from the crowd, the Citroen Basalt X deserves a serious look.
