Rumours Debunked: Citroen Basalt Production in India Expected To Start Near Festive Season Launch

Quick Highlights 

• Citroen Basalt production is yet to begin in India. 
• It’s expected to start series production closer to its festive season launch. 
• The Basalt will be the next launch from Citroen, featuring a SUV-coupe body style. 
• It will compete in the compact SUV segment and will rival the upcoming Tata Curvv. 
• Likely to be priced from around Rs 11 lakh (ex-showroom). 

We can now confirm that the Citroen Basalt has not begun production, which is slated to launch this festive season. While many portals have reported the start of production of the Basalt, Team ZigWheels has firm reason to think that it hasn't (yet). 

The Citroen Basalt is expected to make its market debut sometime in the upcoming festive season, between August to October 2024. Since the launch is still a while away, it would be hard to logically explain why a manufacturer would start production so far in advance. At best, most brands only start series production a month ahead of the price announcement in anticipation of a high number of pre-order bookings.

Citroen Basalt: What Is It? 

The Citroen Basalt is an upcoming SUV-coupe that will slot into the compact SUV segment in India. It will rival the upcoming Tata Curvv, while being a stylish alternative to popular models such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and Maruti Grand Vitara. 

What differentiates it from its rivals is its unconventional sloping roof design, that gives it the aforementioned SUV-couple like design.

Citroen Basalt: Expected Features Onboard 

The Basalt is expected to borrow features from the Citroen C3 and C3 Aircross models such as a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 7-inch digital driver’s display and keyless entry. We also hope Citroen further adds niceties such as automatic climate control, cruise control and push button start to enhance its appeal. 

Note: Citroen C3 Aircross interior image used for representational purposes. 

On the safety front, one can expect six airbags (as standard), ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors with camera, electronic stability control and hill hold assist. 

Citroen Basalt: Engine Options 

Underneath the hood, the Basalt is expected to be powered by a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine developing 110 PS and up to 205 Nm. You can expect it to be teamed with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic. We also wouldn’t discount the possibility of the lower-end variants getting the 82 PS 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. 

Citroen Basalt: Expected Price And Rivals 

The Citroen Basalt is expected to be priced from Rs 11 lakh (ex-showroom). As mentioned above, it will rival the Tata Curvv and be an SUV-coupe alternative to the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Honda Elevate, Toyota Hyryder, VW Taigun, Skoda Kushaq and MG Astor.