Citroen Basalt Coupe SUV: Official India Unveil Of Tata Curvv Rival On 2nd August
The official unveiling of the Citroen Basalt coupe SUV has been set to take place on 2nd August 2024. Based on the C3 Aircross, the Basalt will boast a unique coupe SUV design. Once launched, this SUV will be competing with the Tata Curvv Coupe SUV, which is also scheduled to debut on July 19. Here are all the details of the Citroen Basalt that we know so far.
Design and Exterior
From the outside, the Citroen Basalt looks very similar to its sibling, the C3 Aircross. However, it has to be noted that these similarities are only limited to the front. From the rear, the Basalt boasts a distinctive coupe SUV design.
At the front, the fascia of the Basalt features the signature two-slat grille that extends to form the Citroen logo. However, the grille inserts will have a slightly different finish to distinguish it from its sibling. Meanwhile, on the side profile, it will come equipped with flap-style door handles and unique-looking alloy wheels.
Coming to the main highlight of the Basalt’s design, it will get a sloping roofline. This will give it a coupe-like silhouette that will set it apart in the crowded SUV market. It will get LED wraparound taillights and a chunky rear bumper. Other notable design elements include squared-off wheel arches and a raised tailgate panel.
Interior and Features
As for the interior, the Citroen Basalt is yet to be officially revealed. Most likely, it is expected to share several design cues with the C3 Aircross. The cabin layout will likely be similar; however, the Basalt is anticipated to surpass the C3 Aircross in terms of equipment and features.
At the center of the dashboard will be a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It will come equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, it will also feature a digital instrument cluster. Other features could include electrically folding wing mirrors, automatic climate control, cruise control, wireless charging, and keyless entry and go.
Powertrain Specifications
As for the powerplant side of things, the Citroen Basalt will most likely come powered by the same 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine. This engine is also found in the C3 Aircross. It is capable of producing 109 bhp and 205 Nm of torque.
Transmission options will include a 6-speed manual gearbox. Additionally, there could be an optional 6-speed torque converter automatic, both of which will drive the front wheels. It has been reported that the company following the launch of the ICE model will also launch an EV iteration of the Basalt as well. Details of this variant are currently awaited.
Pricing and Market Positioning
Citroen plans to position the Basalt above the C3 Aircross in its lineup. With this coupe SUV, the company aims to target the premium end of the compact SUV market. The expected price range for the Basalt is between Rs 11 lakh and Rs 15 lakh (ex-showroom).
This pricing strategy places the Basalt in direct competition with the Tata Curvv, which is also set to debut soon on July 19. It will also take on other popular midsize SUVs such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Maruti Grand Vitara, Volkswagen Taigun, Toyota Hyryder, Skoda Kushaq, and MG Astor.