autoX Awards 2024: Citroen made quite a splash when they launched the Basalt coupe SUV, offering this stylish body type at a budget-friendly price, which was sure to appeal strongly to Indian customers. While its compactness might surprise you, there is no denying that its design is quite appealing. The exterior is thoughtfully crafted, with signature DRLs up front and sleek 16-inch alloys enhancing its appeal.
As you step inside, it becomes clear that Citroen has actually listened to feedback from both reviewers and customers, addressing concerns regarding the feature gaps seen in the C3 and C3 Aircross. For instance, the Basalt now includes features like automatic climate control and a wireless charger. There’s also a slight but noticeable improvement in material quality. A unique addition to the Basalt is the adjustable under-thigh support for rear passengers – a thoughtful feature that caters to passengers of various builds. However, despite these updates, the Basalt still lags a bit behind its competition in terms of overall features.
The Basalt is offered with two 1.2-litre petrol engine options – a naturally aspirated engine, which produces 80.4bhp, and a turbocharged unit, which delivers 108bhp. While the naturally aspirated unit focuses on cost efficiency and fuel economy, the turbocharged engine caters to enthusiasts. We tested the more powerful turbo engine, which delivers solid performance. However, it also has notable vibrations and cabin noise, making it less suitable for those who prioritise a quieter ride. The suspension setup is generally well-tuned, though some bumps can still catch you off guard.
Also Read: 2025 Citroen C4, C4 X Unveiled with Cosmetic and Mechanical Updates at 2024 Paris Motor Show
With a starting price of ₹7.99 lakh (ex-showroom) and a 4-star Bharat NCAP rating, the Basalt is a fairly good choice, standing out in a sea of similar-looking sedans and SUVs. However, compared to the Tata Curvv, which is more expensive but also better equipped, the Basalt loses a bit of its exclusive appeal. Additionally, the quality levels fall short, particularly in the more premium trims, where the materials and overall finish don’t quite match the pricing.
- Citroen Basalt (Lap Time: 1.16.95)
| PARAMETERS | POINTS | SCORE |
|---|---|---|
| QUALITY | 5 | 2.5 |
| COMFORT / SPACE | 5 | 3.5 |
| REFINEMENT | 5 | 2 |
| DESIGN | 5 | 3.5 |
| DRIVETRAIN | 5 | 3 |
| RIDE & HANDLING | 5 | 4 |
| PRACTICALITY | 5 | 3.5 |
| X FACTOR | 20 | 9 |
| LAP TIME | 15 | 4.5 |
| VALUE FOR MONEY | 30 | 18 |
| TOTAL | 100 | 53.5 |
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