In a world where SUVs dominate the streets, the Citroën Basalt stands out like a breath of fresh air. Launched as an affordable coupe SUV in India, this vehicle blends sleek design with everyday practicality. If you’re searching for a “Citroën Basalt review” or wondering about its “price and features,” you’ve come to the right place. As of September 2025, the updated Basalt X variant has just hit the market, bringing fresh upgrades that make it even more appealing for budget-conscious buyers who crave style without compromise.
Priced starting at just ₹7.95 lakh (ex-showroom), the Basalt undercuts many rivals while offering a unique coupe silhouette inspired by volcanic rock—fitting its name, which evokes strength and resilience. Whether you’re a city commuter dodging traffic or a family road-tripper seeking comfort, this 5-seater promises a smooth ride. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about the Citroën Basalt 2025, from its eye-catching looks to real-world performance.
What Makes the Citroën Basalt’s Design So Special?
The Basalt isn’t your typical boxy SUV. Its coupe-style roofline gives it a sporty, modern vibe that turns heads wherever it goes. Measuring about 4,365 mm in length, 1,765 mm in width, and 1,660 mm in height, with a 2,650 mm wheelbase, it strikes a perfect balance between compactness and presence. The high ground clearance of 180 mm ensures it handles pothole-ridden Indian roads with ease, making it ideal for urban adventures or light off-roading.
From the front, bold LED headlights and a sculpted grille scream confidence, while the side profile flows seamlessly into that sloping roof, ending in sleek LED taillights. Available in vibrant colors like Polar White, Steel Grey, and Ruby Red, the Basalt’s exterior feels premium without the hefty price tag. Owners rave about its “unique SUV coupe styling” that sets it apart from cookie-cutter competitors like the Hyundai Creta or Tata Curvv.
In the 2025 Basalt X update, Citroën added subtle chrome accents and alloy wheels up to 16 inches, enhancing its road presence even more. If you’re into cars that blend fashion with function, this one’s a winner.
Inside the Basalt: Comfort and Space That Surprises
Step inside, and the Basalt feels like a cozy lounge on wheels. The cabin is spacious for five passengers, with ample legroom and headroom—thanks to that clever wheelbase. Rear seats slide and recline for customizable comfort, and the adjustable under-thigh support in higher trims elevates long journeys.
The dashboard is minimalist yet user-friendly, featuring soft-touch materials and a dual-tone theme in the new Basalt X. At the heart is a vibrant 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Add in a digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and wireless charging, and you’ve got a tech-savvy setup that’s easy to love.
Storage is a highlight: Cup holders, door pockets, and a massive 470-litre boot (expandable to 1,289 litres with seats folded) make it practical for grocery runs or weekend getaways. Ventilated front seats and ambient lighting in the X variant add a touch of luxury, addressing earlier gripes about the base model’s simplicity. One user summed it up perfectly: “The coupe design makes it special, plus the brand shouts value.”
Power Under the Hood: Engine Options and Driving Experience
No one wants a stylish shell without substance, and the Basalt delivers peppy performance. It comes with two 1.2-litre petrol engine choices:
- Naturally Aspirated (NA) Variant: 82 hp, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Great for city driving, offering smooth shifts and decent low-end torque.
- Turbo Variant: 109 hp and 205 Nm of torque, available with a 6-speed manual or torque-converter automatic. This one’s the star—responsive acceleration (0-100 km/h in about 10 seconds) and highway cruising make it fun to drive.
Fuel efficiency? Expect 11-13 km/l in the city and 16-17 km/l on highways for the turbo AT, which is respectable for its class. The ride quality shines with Citroën’s Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension, soaking up bumps like a pro. Handling is stable, though the soft brakes (no rear discs) might feel a tad mushy during hard stops.
In real-world tests, the Basalt feels “reliable and comfortable,” with the turbo engine pulling eagerly past 2,000 rpm. It’s not a speed demon, but for daily duties, it’s spot-on.
Safety First: Features That Keep You Secure
Citroën hasn’t skimped on safety in the Basalt. It scores well in basics, with 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, and hill-hold assist across variants. The Basalt X ups the ante with a 360-degree camera, rear parking sensors, and cruise control for effortless highway runs.
Higher trims include tyre pressure monitoring and ISOFIX child seat anchors, making it family-friendly. While it lacks advanced driver aids like ADAS, its sturdy build and high ground clearance provide peace of mind on unpredictable roads. Global NCAP ratings are pending for the 2025 model, but early reviews praise its “solid engineering.”
Citroën Basalt 2025 Price and Variants: Great Value for Money
Affordability is the Basalt’s superpower. Here’s a quick breakdown of key variants (ex-showroom prices as of September 2025):
| Variant | Engine | Transmission | Price (₹ Lakh) | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| You (Base) | 1.2L NA | 5MT | 7.95 | Basic infotainment, dual airbags |
| Plus | 1.2L Turbo | 6MT | 9.42 | Touchscreen, rear AC vents |
| Max Turbo AT | 1.2L Turbo | 6AT | 11.99 | Ventilated seats, 360° camera |
| Basalt X Plus | 1.2L Turbo | 6AT | 12.90 | Dual-tone interior, cruise control |
On-road prices add about 10-12% for insurance and registration, starting around ₹9 lakh in major cities. Compared to rivals, it’s a steal—offering Creta-sized space at Brezza-level pricing. The 2025 Basalt X launch on September 5 brought ventilated seats and a push-button start, boosting its appeal without jacking up costs.
Pros and Cons: Is the Citroën Basalt Right for You?
Like any car, the Basalt has its highs and lows. Here’s the honest scoop:
Pros:
- Standout Styling: Coupe roof and bold lines make it unique in a sea of SUVs.
- Spacious and Practical: Huge boot and flexible seating for families.
- Smooth Ride: Suspension handles rough roads like a champ.
- Value-Packed: Loaded features at budget prices.
- Fun-to-Drive Engine: Turbo option adds zip without guzzling fuel.
Cons:
- Missing Bells and Whistles: No sunroof, keyless entry in base trims, or ADAS.
- Brake Feel: Soft pedal response could use sharpening.
- Mileage in Traffic: Drops in stop-go city driving.
- Limited Service Network: Citroën’s reach isn’t as wide as Maruti or Hyundai.
Despite low sales in August 2025 (just 7 units), early adopters love its “no-nonsense reliability” and comfort.
Final Verdict: Why the Citroën Basalt 2025 Deserves a Test Drive
The Citroën Basalt 2025 isn’t just another SUV—it’s a smart, stylish choice for anyone tired of bland options. With the fresh Basalt X updates, it now rivals the best in comfort and tech, all while keeping your wallet happy. If you prioritize ride quality, space, and a head-turning design over flashy gimmicks, this coupe SUV is calling your name.
Head to your nearest Citroën showroom for a spin, or check online configurators to build your dream Basalt. What’s your take—ready to basalt your way into adventure? Share in the comments below!
