Citroën Basalt X SUV Debuts in India: Prices Start at ₹9.42 Lakh

The new Citroen Basalt X range has officially gone on sale in India with a starting price tag of Rs 9.42 lakh (ex showroom). The launch introduces a stylish coupé SUV that comes with a refreshed design, premium interior touches and a single turbo-petrol engine option paired with both manual and automatic gearboxes. Deliveries for this new model are expected to commence very soon making it a highly anticipated addition to the compact SUV segment

Highlights of the Launch

• Available in three key trims with multiple feature packs
• Competitive starting price at Rs 9.42 lakh (ex showroom)
• Powered by a single 1.2 litre turbo petrol motor
• Offered with 6 speed manual and automatic transmissions
• Enhanced design elements with coupe like styling

Exterior Design

The Citroen Basalt X has been introduced as a coupe inspired SUV which means it carries a more stylish and sloping roofline compared to traditional SUVs. The standout feature of the X range is its matte black paint option which adds a bold and sporty appeal. Buyers also get the choice of a dual tone body paint scheme where the roof contrasts with the main body color further enhancing its premium look

From the front the Basalt X is fitted with the company’s signature split headlamp design projector lighting and sleek LED daytime running lamps. The side profile features sculpted lines, flared wheel arches and alloy wheels that complement the overall coupe inspired silhouette. At the rear the SUV gets LED tail lamps connected by a black strip giving it a wider stance on the road

Interior and Cabin Experience

Inside the Basalt X features dual tone black and brown interiors, which lend a premium appeal to the cabin. The upholstery and dashboard trims are designed to offer both comfort and durability making the SUV suitable for city drives and long highway runs

Key interior highlights include

• Push button start and keyless entry for convenience
• Cruise control for stress free long-distance driving
• Auto dimming inside rear view mirror (IRVM)
• 360 degree camera for added safety and ease of parking
• Wireless smartphone mirroring for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

The cabin is spacious enough to accommodate five passengers comfortably. Rear seat passengers benefit from good legroom and headroom despite the sloping roofline which is a common concern in coupe styled SUVs

Safety Features

Safety is a major highlight of the Basalt X. All trims are equipped with six airbags as standard along with ABS (Anti lock Braking System) and EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution). The SUV also comes with an electronic stability program which adds confidence during high-speed driving and emergency maneuvers. Importantly the Basalt achieved a 4star safety rating in the Bharat NCAP crash tests conducted in 2024.

Powertrain Options

The Citroen Basalt X range is powered by the company’s tried and tested 1.2 litre turbocharged petrol engine. This motor produces 108 bhp of power and either 190 Nm or 205 Nm of torque depending on the transmission choice

• 6 speed manual transmission (MT): Offers 190 Nm of torque and is aimed at buyers who enjoy more driver engagement
• 6 speed automatic transmission (AT): Provides 205 Nm of torque, designed for those who prefer convenience in heavy traffic conditions

This combination of power and efficiency makes the Basalt X suitable for both city commutes and highway journeys.

Citroen Basalt X Mileage and Range

The official fuel efficiency numbers for the Basalt X have not been fully revealed but based on its engine setup buyers can expect a mileage of around 18–20 km/l for the manual version. The automatic variant may deliver slightly lower figures but still promises respectable efficiency

With a full petrol tank the driving range of the Basalt X is estimated at 600–650 km making it practical for long distance travel without frequent refueling stops.

Variants and Pricing

The Basalt X is available across three broad variants, each offering a different set of features. Buyers can further add a 360 degree camera for an extra Rs 25,000 or opt for a dual tone exterior paint scheme for an additional Rs 21,000

Here’s the complete price list (all prices are ex-showroom):

• Basalt 1.2 NA MT You: Rs 7.95 lakh
• Basalt X 1.2 Turbo MT Plus: Rs 9.42 lakh
• Basalt X 1.2 Turbo MT Plus (higher trims): Rs 10.82 lakh and Rs 12.07 lakh
• Basalt X 1.2 Turbo MT Max: Rs 11.62 lakh
• Basalt X 1.2 Turbo MT Max (top trim): Rs 12.89 lakh

This pricing positions the Basalt X as a strong rival to popular SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Maruti Grand Vitara, while offering a unique coupe-SUV design.

Driving Experience and Ride Quality

The Basalt X benefits from Citroen’s suspension tuning, which has been specially calibrated for Indian roads. It absorbs potholes and uneven surfaces with ease, providing a smooth and comfortable ride even on challenging city roads. The steering is light for easy maneuverability in traffic, while also offering stability at higher speeds on highways.

Technology and Connectivity

The SUV comes equipped with modern connectivity features to keep drivers and passengers engaged. These include:

• Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Premium sound system with multiple speakers
• USB fast-charging ports for front and rear passengers
• Over-the-air (OTA) updates to keep the infotainment system up to date

Competitors in the Market

The Citroen Basalt X competes in the highly competitive compact SUV segment. Its main rivals include:

• Hyundai Creta – known for its premium features and wide network
• Kia Seltos – popular for sporty styling and tech features
• Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara – offers hybrid technology and fuel efficiency
• Honda Elevate – recently launched with strong focus on space and comfort

Despite tough competition, the Basalt X sets itself apart with coupe-inspired styling, attractive pricing, and a strong safety package.

Who Should Consider the Basalt X?

The Basalt X is best suited for:

• Young professionals seeking a stylish yet practical SUV
• Small families needing a safe and spacious vehicle
• Daily commuters and highway travelers who want a balance of performance and efficiency

The Citroen Basalt X range brings together modern design, strong safety features and competitive pricing in the compact SUV space. With a starting price of Rs 9.42 lakh, coupe inspired styling and feature loaded variants, it is expected to attract a wide range of buyers in India. Deliveries will begin shortly and with its combination of efficiency, style, and practicality the Basalt X has the potential to be a serious contender in its segment