Citroen reveals production-ready version of Basalt coupe-SUV ahead of August debut

Citroen has revealed the production-ready version of the Basalt coupe-SUV ahead of its global debut on August 2. 

The Basalt gets a few styling changes over the concept version which was showcased a few months ago. The plastic cladding on the wheel arches now gets a matte finish. The Basalt gets diamond-cut alloy wheels. Despite its premium positioning over the C3 Aircross, it will get the same old school flap-type door handles and halogen tail lamps. However, the coupe-SUV will get LED projector headlamps with DRLs.

Other features will include a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, auto climate control with toggle switches, contoured rear headrests, and a front armrest with storage. The latest images also confirm that the Basalt will be offered with a red paint scheme, while other colour options are yet to be revealed.

Sunroof has become one of the most crucial features in recent years, with some manufacturers even offering it with lower- and mid-level variants. However, none of the Citroen cars introduced under the C-cubed program offer this feature. The Basalt will also miss out on a sunroof option. In a segment that consists of feature-packed SUVs such as Hyundai Creta, Maruti Grand Vitara, Toyota Hyryder and Kia Seltos – all of which get a dual-pane panoramic sunroof, the Basalt will be at a disadvantage. Even the upcoming Tata Curvv, which will be Citroen’s biggest rival, will offer a panoramic sunroof.

The Basalt will come with the same 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine as the C3 Aircross, producing 110hp and 205Nm of torque. Transmission choices will include a 6-speed manual gearbox and an optional 6-speed torque converter automatic. Citroen will position the Basalt above the C3 Aircross in its line-up, making it slightly costlier than the current 7-seater SUV. The Basalt’s pricing is expected to start around Rs 11 lakh-12 lakh (ex-showroom).