Calling all car enthusiasts in India! Buckle up, because Citroen is finally pulling the wraps off its highly anticipated coupe SUV, the Basalt. After months of teasing and spy shots circulating online, the official reveal is set for tomorrow, with a launch expected later this year. This will be Citroen’s fifth offering in the Indian market and is positioned to carve a niche above the popular C3 Aircross SUV.
A Fusion of Style and Functionality
The Basalt’s design is a head-turning blend of inspiration drawn from both the C3 and C3 Aircross. Built on the CMP platform, it boasts the sleek proportions of a mid-size sedan with the added practicality of higher ground clearance, a defining characteristic of the coupe SUV genre.
Citroen’s Signature Design Language
True to Citroen’s design philosophy, the Basalt will sport the brand’s signature split LED headlamp setup, a wide radiator grille for a bold stance, and bumper-mounted fog lamps for enhanced visibility in low-light conditions. The two-slat grille seamlessly merges into the iconic Citroen logo, creating a unified and recognizable aesthetic.
Sharp Lines and Modern Touches
On the sides, the Basalt takes cues from the C3 Aircross. Expect practical touches like flap-style door handles and door-mounted ORVMs. The chunky wheel arches hint at the car’s off-road capability, while the shark-fin antenna adds a touch of sportiness. The sloping roofline, a defining feature of coupe SUVs, lends a dynamic and stylish appeal. Completing the look will likely be a set of 17-inch alloy wheels with a fresh, new design.
A sneak peek at the rear reveals wraparound squared-off LED taillights, adding a modern touch. The raised boot lid suggests ample cargo space, ideal for weekend getaways or hauling luggage for a family trip.
Feature-Packed Cabin for Enhanced Comfort
Citroen is known for prioritizing comfort in its vehicles, and the Basalt is no exception. We can expect the cabin to be generously equipped with features like a large (possibly 10-inch or more) touchscreen infotainment system for seamless connectivity. Smartphone users will rejoice at the inclusion of wireless connectivity, eliminating the need for messy cables.
Convenience at Your Fingertips
For added convenience, the Basalt will likely come with electrically adjustable ORVMs, an auto-dimming IRVM to reduce glare during night drives, and a digital instrument cluster for a clear and easy-to-read display. Steering-mounted controls will keep your hands on the wheel while operating essential functions, ensuring safety on the road.
Luxury Touches for a Premium Feel
Modern car buyers crave a touch of luxury, and the Basalt is expected to cater to that desire. Look out for features like a wireless charging pad to keep your phone juiced up on the go, ventilated front seats for those hot summer days, and ambient lighting that creates a personalized and welcoming atmosphere.
Engineered for Efficiency and Performance
Under the hood, the Basalt is likely to retain the tried-and-tested 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine that powers other Citroen models in India. This engine is known for its balance of efficiency and performance, producing a healthy 109bhp and 205Nm of peak torque. Transmission options will likely include a smooth-shifting six-speed manual gearbox and a torque converter automatic, catering to a variety of driving preferences.
Ready to Take on the Competition
The Citroen Basalt is poised to shake up the mid-size SUV segment in India. Its closest competitor will likely be the upcoming Tata Curvv. However, it will also indirectly compete with established players like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, MG Astor, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, and the Honda Elevate.
Citroen Basalt: A Strong Contender in the Indian SUV Market
With its stylish design, feature-rich cabin, and a capable engine, the Citroen Basalt has all the ingredients to become a popular choice among Indian car buyers. As we await the official reveal tomorrow, the buzz around this new offering is undeniable. Stay tuned for more updates as Citroen unveils the Basalt and we get a closer look at this exciting new addition to India’s vibrant car market.
