Calling all SUV enthusiasts with a penchant for sporty style! Citroen has officially unveiled the much-anticipated Basalt, a head-turning SUV-coupe set to hit Indian shores in the latter half of 2024. This bold new model marks the culmination of Citroen’s C-Cubed program, joining its siblings, the C3 and C3 Aircross, and promises a unique blend of SUV practicality with a coupe’s sleek silhouette.
A Fusion of Form and Function: The Basalt’s Eye-Catching Design
The Basalt breaks the mold with its distinctive notchback design, blurring the lines between a sedan and a high-riding SUV. The front boasts a familiar yet refreshed look, drawing inspiration from the C3 Aircross. Look out for redesigned LED headlamps, a tweaked front bumper for a more muscular stance, and newly designed alloy wheels. The chunky wheel arches and the option for a dual-tone exterior paint job further accentuate the Basalt’s sporty persona. Glance towards the rear, and you’ll be greeted by stylish wraparound LED taillamps, a silver faux skid plate for a touch of ruggedness, and a prominent Citroen logo taking center stage.
Step Inside a World of Comfort and Technology
Citroen promises an equally impressive interior experience with the Basalt. While official details are still under wraps, expect a generous infotainment screen with wireless connectivity to keep you entertained on the go. A digital driver’s display will provide all the crucial information you need at a glance. Modern conveniences like keyless entry, wireless charging for your devices, automatic climate control, and cruise control are likely to be on the menu too. Safety remains a top priority, with the Basalt potentially featuring six airbags as standard, a rear parking camera with sensors for effortless maneuvering, ISOFIX child seat mounts, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) for added peace of mind.
Engine and Performance: Powering the Basalt’s Journey
Citroen is yet to officially reveal the engine specifications for the Basalt. However, considering its close ties to the C3 Aircross, we can expect a familiar powertrain under the hood. The Basalt might be powered by a proven 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine churning out a healthy 109bhp and 205Nm of torque. This engine is likely to be paired with either a smooth-shifting six-speed manual transmission or a convenient torque converter automatic gearbox, catering to both driving styles.
Bold Statements and High Expectations: Citroen’s Vision for the Basalt
Thierry Koskas, CEO of Citroen, expressed his enthusiasm on unveiling the Basalt, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce the third chapter of this program designed to propel Citroen’s global growth. Our local teams are dedicated to delivering this innovative SUV-coupe concept that embodies bold design, spacious interiors, and unmatched on-board comfort in the coming months. Developed and produced locally, we are confident that the Basalt will resonate with a wide range of customers and solidify our presence in key markets. We eagerly await sharing more details with you in the middle of the year.”
Beyond the Basics: Unveiling the Potential of the Basalt
While the official specs paint a compelling picture, there’s more to the Basalt than meets the eye. Here’s a sneak peek at some additional features that might find their way into the production model:
- Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): Features like lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking could potentially elevate the Basalt’s safety quotient to a whole new level.
- Panoramic Sunroof: Imagine basking in the natural light and enjoying a breath of fresh air with a panoramic sunroof adorning the Basalt’s roof.
- Connected Car Tech: Stay connected on the go with Citroen’s connected car technology, offering features like remote locking, vehicle tracking, and real-time traffic updates.
- Multiple Color Options: The Basalt’s dual-tone paint job hints at Citroen’s potential to offer a wider color palette, allowing you to personalize your ride.
Who is the Basalt Made For?
The Basalt seems tailor-made for young professionals and families seeking a car that blends practicality with a touch of style. Its spacious interiors promise comfortable seating for five, while the SUV-like stance ensures ample cargo space for weekend getaways or grocery runs. The punchy engine, coupled with a potentially smooth transmission, makes it suitable for both city commutes and highway cruising.
The Final Verdict: A Promising SUV-Coupe with High Expectations
The Citroen Basalt has certainly generated a lot of buzz with its bold design and feature promises. With its launch slated for the latter half of
