Citroen Basalt X Bookings Open: Will The Tata Curvv Rival Finally Succeed?
Citroën has opened pre-bookings for the updated Basalt X, with an initial booking amount of Rs 11,000. Customers can book the vehicle online or through authorised dealerships. The model builds on the earlier Basalt and aims to address market feedback while adding new features and styling updates.
The Basalt Journey and Market Reality
The original Basalt was introduced in August 2024 as a mass-market SUV coupé, a body style mostly reserved for premium brands. At launch, prices ranged between Rs 8.25 lakh and Rs 14.10 lakh.
Despite distinctive styling and Citroën’s known ride comfort, sales have been modest. In July 2025, only 178 units were sold, up from 95 in May, but far behind segment leaders like the Hyundai Creta, which routinely records over 16,000 units a month.
Citroën faces the challenge of brand visibility, dealer reach, and trust. In a market driven by practicality and resale value, niche formats such as coupe-SUVs are still finding acceptance.
What the X Variant Will Add
The Basalt X has been designed to respond to customer feedback. While full specifications are yet to be revealed, teasers point to updated interiors, added features, and new styling elements. An all-black exterior treatment and black-and-tan interior theme suggest a more premium focus.
Citroën’s “X” badge traditionally signifies an upgraded feature set. The Basalt X is expected to enhance cabin technology and convenience features while retaining the strengths of the original model. The company’s recent updates to the C3 Aircross, which included features like push-button start, cruise control, 360-degree camera, and improved infotainment, hint at the approach likely followed here.
Engines and Performance
The Basalt X is expected to continue with the same powertrains. The entry engine is a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol producing 82 bhp and 115 Nm, paired to a 5-speed manual. Fuel efficiency is a claimed 18.5 kmpl.
The highlight remains the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol that generates 110 bhp and 190 Nm with a manual gearbox or 205 Nm with the 6-speed automatic. Claimed efficiency is 19.5 kmpl for the manual and 18.7 kmpl for the automatic. These engines have been proven in Citroën’s other models and provide adequate performance for urban and highway driving.
Curvv Rival: Will Its Fortunes Turn Around?
The Basalt’s styling and proportions remain its talking point. At 4,352 mm length and 2,651 mm wheelbase, it offers decent cabin and boot space. However, the coupe roofline limits headroom and practicality compared to conventional SUVs. The new variant’s blacked-out look targets younger buyers who value design.
Citroën’s biggest competition comes from Tata’s Curvv, another coupe-SUV concept that has gained more traction. Traditional compact SUVs like the Creta, Nexon, and Maruti models still dominate with a focus on space, price, and features. The Basalt X will need to convert style appeal into meaningful numbers.
Price and Market Expectations
The Basalt X is likely to be priced above the current Basalt, starting near Rs 9 lakh and going up to Rs 15 lakh for top trims. It will be manufactured at Stellantis’s Chennai plant, which also builds Jeep and other Citroën models. The company has production flexibility but needs volumes to justify investment.