Citroen Basalt X Launch: Stylish SUV Coupe with Premium Features & Competitive Price
French automaker Citroen India has launched its all-new SUV, the Citroen Basalt X, in the Indian market at a starting price of ₹7.95 lakh. This latest model, equipped with premium features, a powerful engine, and an eye-catching design, directly challenges compact SUVs such as the Tata Curvv. With its stylish appeal and technology-packed cabin, the Citroen Basalt X has been positioned to attract both young buyers and families. Every aspect of this new SUV has been detailed below.
Launch of Citroen Basalt X
Citroen launched the Basalt X on 5 September 2025, introducing a fresh option in the SUV coupe segment. Designed to balance pricing and features while meeting the growing demand for SUVs in India, the company had already started pre-bookings in August with a token amount of ₹11,000, which received a strong response. The Basalt X is priced between ₹7.95 lakh and ₹12.90 lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India), making it a competitive mid-range SUV with a premium image.
Bold and Striking Design
The exterior of the Basalt X retains the original Basalt styling, featuring V-shaped LED DRLs, projector LED headlamps, and wraparound LED tail lamps. The new X variant, however, adds distinctive elements such as a slim red strip on the lower front bumper and a new “Basalt X” badge on the tailgate. The SUV also sports 16-inch dual-tone diamond-cut alloy wheels and rugged cladding on the lower body, lending it a sportier and more adventurous look. Its design fits perfectly into the SUV coupe category.
Interior and Features
The cabin of the Basalt X has been upgraded to feel more premium. The Basalt X Max variant features a new dual-tone black and tan colour theme, replacing the conventional white finish for a more sophisticated and luxurious touch. Leatherette trim on the dashboard with a slanted pattern, bronze-coloured accents, and a rear centre armrest with cup holders enhance the sense of comfort and style.
In terms of technology, it offers a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 7-inch digital TFT driver display, automatic climate control, wireless charging, cruise control, keyless entry, and engine start/stop. Higher variants also get a 360-degree camera and auto-dimming IRVM, boosting safety and convenience. Ventilated front seats and ambient lighting further elevate the cabin experience.
New CARA AI Voice Assistant
The Basalt X Max automatic variants debut Citroen’s new in-car conversational assistant “CARA.” This AI-powered assistant offers features such as navigation, route suggestions, service history updates, flight status tracking, and live traffic information. It makes driving more seamless and technologically advanced, marking the first time such a smart assistant has been introduced in an affordable SUV in India.
Powerful and Efficient Engine Options
The Basalt X comes with two engine options. The first is a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 82 hp and 110 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission — a practical choice for everyday needs.
The second option is a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine delivering 108 bhp and 190 Nm (manual) or 205 Nm (automatic) of torque. It is offered with a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. This powertrain ensures strong, smooth, and exciting performance for those who seek more driving thrill.
Safety Features with No Compromise
Citroen has placed strong emphasis on safety with the Basalt X. Standard equipment includes six airbags, ABS with EBD, hill-hold assist, electronic stability program (ESP), and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). ISOFIX child seat mounts, along with rear parking sensors and a camera, further enhance family and child safety. These features make the Basalt X a formidable contender in the Indian SUV market.
Direct Competition with Tata Curvv
The Citroen Basalt X has been strategically priced below the Tata Curvv, which starts above ₹10 lakh. While the Tata Curvv’s 1.2L turbo petrol engine (125 hp and 225 Nm) offers slightly more power, the Basalt X counters with a lower entry price, advanced features like the CARA AI assistant, a refined interior, and a stylish French design. These strengths are expected to appeal strongly to younger and mid-range buyers.
For budget-conscious buyers seeking a premium experience, the Basalt X presents itself as an attractive option, while the Tata Curvv continues to target the upper end of the segment with its stronger performance and safety profile.
Conclusion
The Citroen Basalt X has arrived to shake up the Indian SUV market. It comes with an affordable price tag but delivers premium-level features and performance. With its stylish looks, powerful engine, and feature-rich cabin, it is ideal for young buyers, small families, and anyone seeking a safe yet comfortable ride. Deliveries are set to begin ahead of the festive season, making the timing ideal for car buyers.
In simple terms, the Citroen Basalt X is not just an SUV but a practical blend of modern technology and everyday usability, poised to carve a strong identity on Indian roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting price of the Citroen Basalt X in India?
The Citroen Basalt X has been launched at a starting price of ₹7.95 lakh (ex-showroom, pan-India).
What are the engine options available in the Citroen Basalt X?
The SUV is offered with two engine choices: a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol (82 hp, 110 Nm) with a 5-speed manual, and a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol (108 hp, 190–205 Nm) with 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.
What are the key features of the Citroen Basalt X?
Key features include a 10.25-inch infotainment system with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay, 7-inch digital driver display, ventilated seats, wireless charging, 360-degree camera, ambient lighting, and Citroen’s CARA AI voice assistant (in Max automatic variants).
How does Citroen Basalt X compare to Tata Curvv?
While Tata Curvv starts above ₹10 lakh, the Basalt X is more affordable at ₹7.95 lakh. The Curvv offers slightly higher power (125 hp) but Basalt X attracts buyers with its CARA AI assistant, French design, stylish interiors, and value-for-money pricing.
What safety features does the Citroen Basalt X offer?
Standard safety features include six airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, hill-hold assist, TPMS, ISOFIX child-seat mounts, and rear parking sensors with a camera.
When will Citroen Basalt X deliveries begin in India?
Deliveries of the Citroen Basalt X will begin ahead of the upcoming festive season in 2025.
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