Citroen Basalt SUV Coupe: The Stylish Rebel Ready to Shake Up Indian Roads

Let’s talk about something different. Not your average SUV, not quite a sedan, and definitely not a boring hatchback. The Citroen Basalt SUV Coupe is what happens when French flair meets practical performance, with just the right amount of swagger. If you’re tired of seeing the same old cookie-cutter cars everywhere, this might just be your new crush.

Built for those who like to stand out without shouting, the Basalt brings a coupe-like roofline to the compact SUV segment—a rare design choice in India. It’s not just about the looks though. There’s substance under all that style. So buckle up as we break down why the Citroen Basalt could be one of 2025’s most intriguing new cars.

What Makes the Citroen Basalt Different?

SUV coupes aren’t common on Indian roads. They’re more of a European thing, traditionally reserved for luxury brands. But Citroen is flipping the script by bringing the SUV coupe shape to a more accessible price point.

So, what’s the big deal?

Imagine the toughness of an SUV mixed with the sloped elegance of a coupe. The Citroen Basalt blends that into a sleek, urban-friendly package. You get a raised stance for potholes and floods, but also that aerodynamic edge that makes it look like it’s moving even when it’s parked.

This car is not just a ride—it’s a statement.

Under the Hood: What Powers the Basalt?

Citroen is keeping things familiar and reliable when it comes to the powertrain—at least for now. The Basalt is expected to share its engine setup with the C3 Aircross, which means you’ll likely see the same turbocharged 1.2L engine doing duty.

Expected Engine & Performance Specs

• Engine: 1.2L turbo-petrol, 3-cylinder

• Power Output: 110 HP, 190 Nm torque

• Transmission: 6-speed manual and automatic (expected)

• Mileage (Expected): 18–19 km/l

• Platform: CMP (Common Modular Platform)

This engine has proven itself to be peppy and efficient, especially in city conditions. Don’t expect to race Ferraris, but for everyday drives, the Basalt should hit the sweet spot between fuel economy and fun.

Comparison Table: Citroen Basalt vs Rivals

The Basalt might not top the charts in raw power, but it’s aiming to be India’s first truly affordable SUV coupe. And that’s a niche with serious potential.

Design & Styling: Not Just a Pretty Face

Let’s not mince words: the Basalt is going to turn heads. It borrows the same funky DNA that made the C3 and C5 Aircross stand out but adds its own twist. The sloping roofline isn’t just there for show—it gives the car a leaner, sportier side profile that screams “drive me.”

<h4>Exterior Highlights</h4>

• Bold front fascia with Citroen’s dual-chevron design

• Chunky wheel arches and raised ground clearance

• Sloped coupe roofline for sporty silhouette

• New LED headlight design and DRLs

• Tailgate spoiler and wide rear stance

Citroen’s designers clearly didn’t want to make another boxy crossover. Instead, they crafted something that blends European design sensibility with Indian street smarts.

And inside? Expect a minimalist but functional cabin, with high-quality plastics, a digital instrument cluster, and an upgraded touchscreen system.

Features & Tech: Simplicity with Smart Touches

Citroen doesn’t overcomplicate things. They believe in keeping it smart, not stuffed. That philosophy continues in the Basalt, where the tech is meaningful—not gimmicky.

Expected Features Inside

• 10-inch infotainment system with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay

• Digital instrument display

• Wireless charging

• Rear AC vents

• Push-button start and keyless entry

• Steering-mounted controls

In higher variants, you can expect additional features like automatic climate control, connected car tech, and maybe even a sunroof (though unconfirmed).

It’s not aiming to be a tech overload like the Kia Seltos—it’s aiming to be just right for the everyday user.

Safety & Build Quality: Built for Real Roads

If you’ve driven on Indian roads, you know one thing for sure: cars here need to be tough. Citroen gets that. The Basalt will ride on the same modular platform as the C3, which has proven to be durable and crash-ready.

Expected Safety Features:

• 6 airbags (top trims)

• ABS with EBD

• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

• Rear parking camera and sensors

• Hill start assist

• ISOFIX child seat mounts

Also, Citroen’s known for its suspension tuning, and if that DNA carries over to the Basalt, you can expect a smooth ride even on cratered roads.

Pricing & Launch Timeline: When and How Much?

Here’s the part that’ll really make you pay attention.

• Expected Starting Price: ₹9.5–10 Lakhs (Ex-showroom)

• Top Variant: ₹12–13 Lakhs

• Launch Window: Mid-2025

• Booking Starts: Likely Q2 2025

This puts the Basalt smack in the middle of premium hatchbacks and compact SUVs—a sweet spot that gives it the room to punch above its weight.

Conclusion: The Citroen Basalt Is Not Playing It Safe (And That’s a Good Thing)

The Citroen Basalt SUV Coupe isn’t just another car—it’s a bold move. It brings European styling, a practical feature set, and an affordable price into a shape Indian roads have barely seen. It’s different in the best way possible.

If you’re looking to break away from the usual choices, and you want a car that reflects your own unique style and practicality, the Basalt could be the breath of fresh air you’ve been waiting for.

Compact SUV? Boring. Hatchback? Too safe. Sedan? Outdated.
Basalt? Just right.