The Indian automotive industry is buzzing with excitement as Citroen prepares to launch the much-awaited Basalt X tomorrow. Positioned as a stylish coupe-SUV, the Basalt X is set to bring a fresh wave of design and practicality to India’s compact SUV market. With its unique styling, international appeal, and competitive pricing strategy, this launch could be a game-changer for the French automaker in India.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the upcoming Citroen Basalt X – from its design and features to expected pricing, engine options, and how it stacks up against rivals.
1. A Stylish Coupe-SUV for India
The Citroen Basalt X is designed to stand out in a market filled with traditional SUVs. By blending coupe-like styling with SUV proportions, Citroen aims to capture young buyers looking for something different from conventional options like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Grand Vitara.
The sloping roofline, sharp lines, and sporty stance will give the Basalt X a premium look while still offering the practicality of a compact SUV.
2. Design Highlights
Citroen is known for its bold and quirky design language, and the Basalt X won’t be any different. Based on spy shots and teasers, here’s what to expect:
- Front Fascia: Citroen’s signature grille with split LED headlamps and sleek DRLs.
- Side Profile: Coupe-like sloping roofline, muscular wheel arches, and stylish alloy wheels.
- Rear Design: A sporty tailgate design with LED taillights and high ground clearance.
- Dimensions: Expected to be slightly larger than the C3 Aircross, giving it more cabin space.
The overall design will cater to urban buyers who want style without compromising practicality.
3. Expected Interior Features
Inside, the Citroen Basalt X is likely to offer a tech-loaded yet minimalistic cabin, much like its siblings. Some expected features include:
- A 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay.
- Digital driver’s display with customizable layouts.
- Premium upholstery with dual-tone finishes.
- Automatic climate control for added comfort.
- Ample boot space thanks to its coupe-SUV design.
- Multiple USB charging ports and wireless charging.
Citroen may also offer connected car technology with OTA (Over-The-Air) updates.
4. Engine and Powertrain Options
While Citroen has not officially revealed all engine details, we expect the Basalt X to be powered by:
- 1.2L turbo-petrol engine producing around 110 PS and 190 Nm torque.
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic.
- A CNG variant may also be in the pipeline, given rising demand in India.
Unlike some rivals, a diesel option is unlikely. Instead, Citroen may focus on petrol and possibly an electric variant in the future.
5. Safety Features
Safety is becoming a priority for Indian buyers, and Citroen is expected to equip the Basalt X with:
- Up to 6 airbags (top variant).
- ABS with EBD and electronic stability program (ESP).
- Hill hold assist for easier city driving.
- Rear parking sensors with a 360-degree camera.
- ISOFIX child seat mounts for families.
With NCAP ratings becoming a buyer’s deciding factor, Citroen will likely aim for a strong safety rating for the Basalt X.
6. Expected Price and Variants
Pricing will play a crucial role in the Basalt X’s success. Citroen is known for offering aggressive pricing with its C3 and C3 Aircross, and the Basalt X is expected to follow the same strategy.
- Expected Price Range: ₹9.5 lakh to ₹14.5 lakh (ex-showroom).
- Variants: Likely to be offered in multiple trims – base, mid, and top-spec with automatic.
By keeping the starting price under ₹10 lakh, Citroen will directly challenge segment leaders.
7. Competition in the Segment
The Citroen Basalt X will compete in India’s compact and mid-size SUV segment, one of the most competitive markets. Its key rivals include:
- Hyundai Creta – Market leader with a wide variety of engine and features.
- Kia Seltos – Stylish and feature-rich SUV with powerful engine options.
- Maruti Grand Vitara – Offers hybrid and CNG powertrains.
- Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder – Strong hybrid tech and reliability.
- Tata Curvv (upcoming) – Another coupe-SUV rival coming soon.
Where the Basalt X may stand out is its unique coupe styling and aggressive pricing.
8. Why the Basalt X Matters for Citroen in India
Citroen entered the Indian market with the C5 Aircross, followed by the C3 hatchback and C3 Aircross SUV. While these models gained attention, Citroen is still in the process of building a strong foothold in India.
The Basalt X launch is critical because:
- It will bring more visibility to the Citroen brand.
- Coupe-SUV styling could appeal to young urban buyers.
- Competitive pricing may attract first-time SUV buyers.
- It positions Citroen as a challenger brand in India’s fastest-growing segment.
9. What to Expect at the Launch Event Tomorrow
Tomorrow’s launch event will likely reveal:
- Official price list and variants.
- Full feature breakdown across trims.
- Engine and performance details.
- Booking and delivery timelines.
- Citroen may also announce special introductory offers for early buyers.
10. Should You Wait for the Basalt X?
If you are considering buying a new compact SUV in 2024–25, the Citroen Basalt X is worth waiting for. It promises:
- Stylish coupe-SUV looks.
- Practical cabin and tech features.
- Competitive pricing compared to rivals.
- Maruti-like service network expansion plans in India.
However, if you want a hybrid or diesel engine, you might still find better options in rivals like Maruti Grand Vitara or Hyundai Creta.
Conclusion
The Citroen Basalt X launch tomorrow marks an important milestone for the French automaker in India. With its stylish design, practical features, competitive pricing, and SUV versatility, the Basalt X could become a strong contender in the mid-size SUV market.
For buyers looking for something fresh, youthful, and different from mainstream SUVs, the Citroen Basalt X is certainly an option worth considering. The official launch will confirm whether it has what it takes to challenge established leaders, but one thing is clear – the Basalt X will add excitement to India’s growing SUV space.