After quite a bit of pre-launch hype, Citroën South Africa has recently introduced the new Basalt SUV-coupé. Based on the same Smart Car platform as the C3 and C3 Aircross, the subcompact crossover SUV, developed for emerging markets, was previewed by the “Basalt Vision” concept car in 2024, shortly before it went on sale in Brazil.
The Citroën Basalt is the third model sourced from India under Citroën’s C-Cubed programme, joining the C3 and Aircross to complete the local C-Cubed line-up. In essence, a coupé derivative of the C3 Aircross, the Basalt’s design blends SUV lines with coupé-inspired proportions, expressed through elevated ground clearance, a strong bonnet line and robust exterior detailing.
The fastback-style roofline creates a distinctive silhouette and contributes to aerodynamic efficiency, yet, in my view, the Basalt in production form does not really live up to the expectations set by the Vision concept model, with its edgier lines and bigger wheels.
Yes, it is different from the norm. Still, unfortunately, the choice of 16-inch alloy wheels and tyres as standard across the range, instead of the 17-inch tyres as used on the top-model C3 Aircross, looks too small underneath the bulky body lines, resulting in a visually unbalanced profile and a compromised stance.
Although the smaller wheels and tyres contribute to the Basalt’s ride comfort, my feeling is buyers will most likely opt for bigger tyre sizes to add a bit of pizzazz to the SUV-coupé’s stance, more so because its visual appearance will be a big motivator in the buying decision.
LIVELY ENGINE
Both the Plus and Max derivatives are powered by the responsive, lively three-cylinder 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine also used in the C3 Aircross, producing 81 kW and 205 Nm of torque, and are paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission.
The drivetrain is perhaps the Basalt’s best attribute, as it balances class-leading performance with everyday efficiency, and on the short Gauteng launch route, there was virtually no difference in the ride and handling traits of the SUV-coupe compared to the C3 Aircross, except the Basalt felt a little lighter and more compact in the corners.
PRACTICAL INTERIOR
The interior mimics the layout of the other C-Cubed models, prioritising comfort, space and everyday usability. The cabin offers generous legroom for all occupants and a practical five-seat layout, complemented by a 470-litre boot. Up front, a soft-touch instrument panel extends across the cabin, and a 10” Citroën Connect floating touchscreen (with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility) is paired with a 7” digital instrument cluster.
Comfort-focused features include Proxi-Sense keyless entry and push-button start, cruise control with speed limiter, automatic air-conditioning with rear air vents designed for warm-weather comfort, front and rear armrests, and height-adjustable front headrests. With the Max specification grade, a reversing camera is added, along with a leather steering wheel, an electrochromic rearview mirror, two extra sound tweeters, a shark fin antenna, and boot lighting.
Safety is strengthened through a high-strength body structure and a comprehensive suite of systems, including electronic stability control, Hill-Hold Control, tyre-pressure monitoring, two Isofix child-seat anchors, and six airbags as standard.
LAST WORD
Priced between R354,900 and R369,900 (including a four-year/60,000 km service plan and a five-year/100,000 km warranty), the Basalt sits above the standard C3 and C3 Aircross in Citroën’s local portfolio, and its closest pricing competitors are the top-spec Suzuki Fronx GLX Auto (R368,900), Kia Sonet (R366,000), and Toyota Starlet Cross 1.5 XR Auto (R383,800).
Other possible contenders are the smaller Tata Curvv 1.2T Pure+, priced at R349,900, the bigger Chery Tiggo Cross 1.5T Comfort DCT (R399,900) and the Renault Kiger 1.0L Turbo Iconic CVT (R329,999), but besides the Curvv, none of them offers the “coupé” type design of the Basalt and a 470-litre boot.
As such, the Basalt, with its distinctive design and a focus on comfort, technology and everyday usability, will appeal to a niche within the compact B-segment SUV market – those who want to differentiate themselves from the crowd. In this sense, the new Basalt ticks all the boxes, even though in final execution, it presents somewhat less fiery than in concept form.
Report by FERDI DE VOS | Images © CITROËN SOUTH AFRICA
