Is the Citroen Basalt Worth Buying in 2025? Honest Review with Pros & Cons

Citroen Basalt Review: Pros, Cons, and Why It’s Worth Considering

If you’re in the market for a new SUV coupe and have your eye on something a little different, say hello to the Citroen Basalt. In this article, we’ll walk you through and review the pros, cons, and what makes this car unique - and whether it’s the right pick for your next drive.

Introduction: The Car and the Market Trend

Many reviewers are quick to draw comparisons between the Citroen Basalt and competitors like the Tata Curvv. But let’s set the record straight: despite the segment overlap in dimensions, these two vehicles target different audiences. While Tata leans towards features and bold SUV design, Citroen's approach with the Basalt is about simplicity, unique design, and driving comfort.

Citroen Basalt: Strengths That Stand Out

1. Eye-Catching Design

The Citroen Basalt boasts a unique exterior that differentiates it from many mainstream models. It’s an SUV coupe, but not in the conventional sense. While its dimensions resemble competitors, the car’s aesthetic choices give it a fresh, distinct look. You might feel that some design aspects (like the body proportions) could be tweaked, but overall, it leaves a positive impression.

2. Ample Interior Space

The Basalt delivers rear seat comfort, especially for taller passengers. Even with the front seats adjusted for someone six feet tall, passengers in the back enjoy generous legroom and decent thigh support. The vehicle comfortably accommodates five passengers, though the middle seat may feel cramped on longer drives.

3. Great Driving Dynamics

A car’s worth is often defined by its performance on the road, and the Basalt delivers on that front. With responsive suspension and a well-tuned engine, this car is ideal for both city commutes and highway cruising. Citroen has balanced its handling and suspension well, making it reliable even on rough roads. The engine’s 81 kW (110 PS) power with 205 Nm of torque ensures smooth acceleration, and even the manual 5-speed version without turbo offers a decent driving experience.

4. Ergonomics and Comfort

The minimalistic dashboard and the placement of controls are user-friendly, ensuring the essentials are within easy reach. The ride quality stands out as well, with the suspension comfortably absorbing bumps, even with a full cabin.

What Could Be Better? A Few Drawbacks

Despite its positives, the Basalt isn’t without its flaws. Here’s what Citroen could improve:

1. Design Oversights

The door flap design leaves room for improvement, and there’s no request sensor - you’ll need to unlock the car using a key. Additionally, some components, like exposed screws and an awkwardly placed boot handle, diminish the premium feel.

2. Missing Modern Features

In a market where sunroofs and feature-packed infotainment systems are becoming standard, the absence of a sunroof in the Basalt stands out. The bezels on the screen are thick, making the display appear outdated. For a car in this segment, some buyers might expect more advanced tech options, like electrochromic rearview mirrors and one-touch window controls.

3. Fuel Efficiency and Braking Concerns

While the torque converter delivers good power, it compromises fuel economy slightly. Expect 11-13 km/l in the city and 16-17 km/l on the highway if driven conservatively. Additionally, the brakes feel soft, and the lack of rear disc brakes is a noticeable drawback.

Is the Citroen Basalt the Right Choice for You?

If you’re looking for a no-nonsense car with reliable driving mechanics, decent comfort, and a touch of uniqueness, the Citroen Basalt might be a great option. However, if flashy features and tech-heavy interiors are on your must-have list, you might feel underwhelmed, especially when compared to the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, or Tata Harrier.

Brand Awareness and Market Position

One of Citroen’s challenges in India is brand awareness. With just 85 dealerships, the brand is still building its presence. Although Citroen has committed to the Indian market, their products haven’t yet become top-of-mind choices for many buyers. This could affect the car’s resale value and availability of service.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Citroen Basalt?

The Citroen Basalt offers great value if you prioritize comfort, mechanical performance, and a unique look. It may lack some of the bells and whistles offered by its competitors, but mechanically, it’s a strong product. If your budget is in the ₹10-16 lakh range and you want something different from the crowd, the Basalt deserves your consideration.

However, it’s essential to note that the competition is fierce. With options like the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, and Maruti Grand Vitara, buyers are spoiled for choice. The lack of brand recognition might also make some hesitant to pick Citroen over more established names.

Conclusion

To sum it up, the Citroen Basalt isn’t a car for everyone. But if you want a no-frills SUV coupe that performs well on the road and doesn’t mind the lack of some modern-day features, this car could be a smart pick. It’s a reliable product that meets essential needs - just don’t expect it to turn heads like some of its more feature-rich rivals.

What are your thoughts about the Citroen Basalt? Does It’s Worth Considering? Let us know in the comments!