Citroen Basalt vs Tata Nexon: Which One Should You Pick?

The Citroen Basalt is the newest entrant in the compact SUV space, which is probably the busiest and one of the most popular segments in India. However, the prices of this SUV-coupe are more in-line with the subcompact SUV segment. In this article, we will be comparing it with one of the top-selling SUVs of India, the Tata Nexon, to find out if the Basalt can match up to the Nexon’s level and give it a tough fight: 

The match begins: 

Price

* Prices of the Citroen Basalt are introductory

As we can see, both the cars are offered at the same starting price. But, it is the Nexon that tops out at Rs 15.8 lakh (ex-showroom), which is over Rs 2 lakh more expensive than the top-spec Basalt. Let’s find out if the premium is justified and worth paying:

Design And Dimensions

The Nexon’s design is modern and appealing, but the Basalt brings in a sense of uniqueness and desirability with its coupe design. Both SUVs boast modern design elements such as LED headlights and LED DRLS. Let’s find out the difference in their sizes: 

The Citroen Basalt is the longer SUV and also has a greater wheelbase, which can result in better space for the rear passengers. The Nexon on the other hand, is slightly taller and wider. In terms of boot space, the Basalt is the clear winner, offering around 90 litres of extra space. 

Features

If you compare the features of both these SUVs, the Basalt falls short by a great deal. The Nexon leads the race with features such as a sunroof, ventilated front seats, 360-degree camera, cruise control, paddle shifters and more. However, the Nexon does ask for a reasonable price premium for these additional features. So, if you are looking for a feature-loaded SUV and are ready to pay the premium, the Nexon would be the perfect SUV to satisfy your needs.

Powertrain

As seen in the table above, the Nexon offers the option of both petrol and diesel engines, while the Basalt gets both NA petrol and turbo-petrol engines. In terms of overall output, the Nexon produces more compared to both of Basalt’s engines, especially when you pick the diesel. That being said, the Basalt turbo-petrol’s figures are not bad either, and you won’t be complaining about it. Out of all the options, the Basalt’s NA engine is the only one which misses out on an automatic transmission. 

Verdict 

Both Citroen Basalt and Tata Nexon might be more or less similar in terms of pricing, but have different characteristics and personalities. The Basalt is a more unique-looking SUV thanks to its sloping roofline and sporty design. It is also more spacious due its longer wheelbase and has a larger boot space as well. The Nexon on the other hand, is a well-rounded package considering its feature-loaded cabin, the option of a diesel and its 5-star crash test safety rating (Basalt is yet to be tested). 

If you are okay with spending the premium, then you should pick the Nexon which will provide a better experience overall. But, if you want to stand out with a unique and a more spacious SUV, while saving a couple of lakhs, you won’t go wrong with the Basalt. 

Let us know your thoughts about these two rivaling-SUVs. Which one would you pick and why?