The Indian automotive market is fiercely competitive, where every manufacturer battles for attention through aggressive pricing, advanced features, and distinctive designs. While SUVs dominate the market, a specific body style—the SUV-Coupe—has long remained exclusive to luxury European brands. But things are about to change.
With the launch of the Citroën Basalt X on September 5, 2025, the French automaker has thrown open the gates to this aspirational design segment. Priced aggressively at a starting point of ₹7.95 lakh (ex-showroom), the Basalt X is more than just another SUV. It’s a bold move to redefine affordability and style, offering buyers a premium coupe-SUV experience without breaking the bank.
The ‘X’ variant takes this promise even further, introducing a host of premium features, advanced technology, and improved comfort. This blog post dives deep into everything you need to know about the 2025 Citroën Basalt X, including its design, performance, interior, safety, and value for money.
1. Striking Design: A Perfect Balance of Muscle and Grace
The first thing that grabs your attention about the Basalt X is its stunning silhouette. Citroën has managed to merge the ruggedness of an SUV with the elegance of a coupe, creating a vehicle that looks unlike anything else in its price bracket.
A Head-Turner on the Roads
At the front, the Basalt X proudly wears Citroën’s signature split-headlamp design, complemented by V-shaped LED DRLs. Its high bonnet and pronounced wheel arches lend it the muscular appeal expected from an SUV, while the high ground clearance makes it practical for India’s uneven roads.
From the B-pillar onwards, the real magic unfolds. The sharply sloping roofline gives it a coupe-like profile, ending in a compact, stylish boot. Unlike some competitors, where coupe styling feels awkward or forced, the Basalt X’s proportions are perfectly balanced, making it aerodynamic and sporty without compromising practicality.
The ‘X’ variant further enhances its road presence with a dual-tone black-and-tan exterior theme, unique badging, and subtle chrome accents that exude a premium vibe.
2. Performance and the “Magic Carpet” Ride
Citroën is renowned worldwide for its emphasis on comfort, and the Basalt X continues this legacy through its Advanced Comfort philosophy.
Engine Options
The SUV comes with two 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engines:
- 1.2L Naturally Aspirated Petrol
- Power: 82 PS
- Torque: 115 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- Ideal for city commuters who prioritize fuel efficiency.
- 1.2L Turbo-Petrol
- Power: 110 PS
- Torque: 190 Nm (Manual) / 205 Nm (Automatic)
- Transmission: 6-speed manual or 6-speed torque converter automatic
- Offers strong performance for highway driving and spirited acceleration.
The turbo engine, paired with the automatic transmission, delivers smooth shifts and relaxed cruising. While it can get slightly vocal at higher RPMs, it remains refined enough for most users.
Class-Leading Ride Comfort
The real showstopper, however, is the Basalt X’s suspension setup. It handles potholes, speed breakers, and rough patches with an ease that rivals can’t match. This “magic carpet ride” quality gives passengers a plush experience, even on challenging terrains.
- City Driving: Light steering makes navigating traffic effortless.
- Highway Cruising: The suspension offers stability and confidence at higher speeds, making it a reliable companion for long journeys.
3. Interior and Features: A Complete Upgrade
One of the biggest criticisms of Citroën’s earlier offerings was their basic interiors and lack of essential features. The Basalt X addresses these concerns head-on, completely redefining the cabin experience.
Premium Look and Feel
The interior now features a dual-tone black-and-tan theme, lending it a sophisticated, upscale vibe. Soft-touch leatherette inserts on the dashboard and door panels elevate the tactile quality significantly.
Feature Highlights
The Basalt X variant finally matches segment expectations with a robust list of features:
- Ventilated Front Seats – A must-have for Indian summers.
- 10.25-inch Touchscreen Infotainment System with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- 7-inch Full Digital TFT Driver Display for a modern driving interface.
- Cruise Control and Auto-Dimming IRVM for added convenience.
- Engine Start/Stop Button with Proxi-Sense Keyless Entry.
- 360-Degree Camera (optional) for easy parking in tight spaces.
Introducing CARA – India’s First AI-Powered In-Car Companion
Citroën debuts CARA, an advanced AI assistant that supports 52 languages. Unlike traditional voice assistants, CARA remembers your preferences, favorite destinations, and even dietary choices, making it a personalized co-pilot.
This innovative technology pushes the Basalt X far ahead of its competitors in the connected car space.
Space and Practicality
Despite its coupe-like design, the Basalt X offers impressive cabin space:
- Generous rear knee room thanks to its long wheelbase.
- 470-liter boot space, making it ideal for family road trips.
- Rear AC vents and dual Type-C charging ports ensure rear passengers travel comfortably.
- Adjustable rear seat under-thigh support enhances long-distance comfort.
4. Safety: A Strong 4-Star Rating
In today’s market, safety is non-negotiable. The Basalt X rises to the challenge with a 4-star BNCAP rating for both Adult and Child Occupant Protection.
Standard Safety Features Across Variants:
- Six Airbags
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Hill Hold Assist
- ABS with EBD
- ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
The vehicle’s body uses advanced high-strength steel (AHSS and UHSS), ensuring excellent structural integrity and crash protection.
5. Price, Variants, and Value
The Citroën Basalt X has been priced strategically to undercut many rivals while offering premium design and comfort.
| Variant | Engine Type | Transmission | Price (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basalt Live | 1.2L NA Petrol | 5-speed Manual | ₹7.95 lakh |
| Basalt Feel | 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 6-speed Manual | ₹9.10 lakh |
| Basalt Feel+ | 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 6-speed Automatic | ₹10.35 lakh |
| Basalt X | 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 6-speed Automatic | ₹11.50 lakh |
Considering its coupe-SUV design, ride quality, and feature-rich ‘X’ variant, the Basalt offers exceptional value for money.
6. Competitors
The Basalt X competes with popular compact SUVs like:
- Hyundai Creta
- Kia Seltos
- Maruti Grand Vitara
- Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder
- Skoda Kushaq
- Volkswagen Taigun
While these rivals may offer features like a sunroof or slightly more powerful engines, none match the Basalt’s styling uniqueness and ride comfort at this price point.
7. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Distinctive SUV-Coupe styling that stands out.
- Unmatched ride comfort with Citroën’s suspension tuning.
- Feature-rich ‘X’ variant with ventilated seats and cruise control.
- Innovative CARA AI assistant.
- 4-star BNCAP safety rating.
- Large 470-liter boot space.
Cons:
- Turbo engine becomes vocal at high RPMs.
- Limited brand recognition and resale value concerns.
- No sunroof, which some buyers might expect.
8. Final Verdict
The 2025 Citroën Basalt X isn’t just another compact SUV; it’s a bold statement. With its striking design, class-leading comfort, and tech-forward features, Citroën has created a package that challenges traditional expectations in this segment.
If you value style, comfort, and innovation and are open to trying a relatively new brand, the Basalt X offers exceptional value. Starting at ₹7.95 lakh, it delivers the premium experience of a mid-size SUV at a compact SUV price.
It’s safe to say that the Basalt X is more than a car—it’s a French revolution on wheels, bringing aspirational design and comfort to the masses.
Also read: 2025 Tata Sumo: The Legendary SUV Returns With a Modern Makeover
9. FAQs
Q1. What is the launch date of the Citroën Basalt X?
The Citroën Basalt X was launched on September 5, 2025.
Q2. What is the starting price of the Basalt X?
The base variant starts at ₹7.95 lakh (ex-showroom).
Q3. Does the Basalt X have a sunroof?
No, it does not come with a sunroof, which helps preserve headroom and structural rigidity.
Q4. How safe is the Basalt X?
It has received a 4-star BNCAP safety rating, making it one of the safer options in its segment.
Q5. What is the boot space of the Basalt X?
The vehicle offers a spacious 470-liter boot, perfect for family travel.