Upcoming Citroen Basalt SUV Coupe New Teaser Out: Rear Seats & New Features Revealed

Published: Wednesday, July 31, 2024, 16:36 [IST]

Citroen is preparing to introduce its fifth model in India, the Citroen Basalt Coupe SUV. The official unveiling is set for 2nd August, with the launch and sales expected to follow shortly after. Positioned above the C3 Aircross, the Basalt will feature several new additions to its equipment list.

Enhanced Features of Citroen Basalt

The latest teaser reveals that the rear power window buttons on the Basalt are now located on the door controls, making them more accessible for the driver. This is a significant improvement over the C3 Aircross, where these buttons are placed behind the handbrake on the front centre console, making them harder to reach.

Another notable upgrade in the Basalt is the floor-mounted rear AC vents situated behind the front centre console. In contrast, the C3 Aircross lacks rear AC vents entirely. While its 7-seater variant has roof-mounted rear AC vents, floor-mounted ones in Basalt are more practical and functional.

Potential for Future Upgrades

Although Basalt won't have a sunroof at launch, Citroen might consider adding one later based on market feedback and dealer enquiries. The SUV segment shows a strong preference for sunroofs, as seen with competitors like Tata Curvv, which will feature a panoramic sunroof among other premium offerings.

The Basalt also includes electrically adjustable and retractable ORVMs, unlike the manually operated ones on the C3 Aircross. However, it will not offer keyless entry as indicated by a conventional keyhole below its flat-style door handles.

Powertrain Specifications

The Citroen Basalt will be powered by a 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine producing 110 hp and 205 Nm of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic. Notably, torque output drops to 190 Nm with the manual gearbox.

Despite its sporty design aimed at attracting customers, offering only a single petrol engine option could limit its appeal in a segment where multiple powertrain choices like diesel, hybrid, CNG, and electric are available.

Market Positioning and Competition

The Citroen Basalt is expected to be priced between Rs 11 lakh and Rs 12 lakh. It will compete with other compact SUVs such as Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota HyRyder, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and Tata Curvv.

Earlier teasers have shown features like auto climate control with toggle switches, front armrest with storage space, and contoured rear headrests in the Basalt SUV. These enhancements aim to provide added convenience and comfort for users.

The introduction of these features highlights Citroen's efforts to make Basalt more appealing in India's competitive SUV market. By addressing some of the limitations seen in their previous models like C3 Aircross, Citroen aims to capture a larger market share with this new offering.