After clocking over 5,000 km with the Citroen Basalt AT, I’ve had ample time to evaluate how this new compact coupe-SUV performs in real-world Indian conditions. Citroen’s unique design language and comfort-first approach have always made their cars stand out, and the Basalt is no exception. But does it deliver beyond the initial “wow” factor? Here’s a deep dive into its performance, comfort, features, and ownership experience.
1. Design: Coupe Charm That Turns Heads
From the moment you see it, the Basalt demands attention. The sloping coupe roofline, aggressive front fascia, and bold Citroen grille give it a distinctive personality. At traffic lights and parking lots, it often gets curious glances and compliments — not something you expect from a compact SUV in this segment.
The high ground clearance and flared wheel arches offer a rugged stance, while the coupe rear adds a premium touch. Fit and finish are largely solid, though there are a few plasticky bits that remind you of the car’s cost-conscious roots.
2. Engine and Performance: Smooth but Not Sporty
The automatic variant is powered by a 1.2L turbo-petrol engine mated to a 6-speed torque converter. It produces adequate power for daily commutes and weekend highway drives. The gearbox is smooth, especially in city conditions, where it shines with minimal lag and decent throttle response.
However, if you’re expecting a sporty drive, the Basalt AT might leave you wanting more. Overtakes on highways require a bit of planning, especially when fully loaded. The car is tuned more for comfort and efficiency than outright performance.
3. Ride & Handling: Classic Citroen Comfort
Citroen has built its brand around ride comfort, and the Basalt is no different. The suspension setup soaks up bad roads with ease — potholes, speed breakers, and uneven surfaces are hardly felt inside the cabin.
The steering is light, which is great for city driving, but feels a bit disconnected at higher speeds. That said, the car remains stable on the highway, and body roll is well controlled for an SUV-coupe.
4. Cabin Comfort & Space: Surprisingly Practical
Step inside and you’ll notice a cabin that’s clean and modern, if not overly luxurious. The seats are wide and extremely comfortable, especially for long drives. Rear seat space is generous too, even with the coupe-like roofline, though taller passengers may find headroom a bit tight.
The boot is decently sized and the 60:40 split rear seats add flexibility. Cabin insulation is also impressive, keeping road and engine noise mostly at bay.
5. Features & Tech: Essentials Covered
The Basalt AT comes equipped with a decent set of features:
- 10-inch touchscreen infotainment with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Digital instrument cluster
- Auto climate control
- Rear camera with sensors
- LED DRLs and projector headlamps
However, there are some misses in the feature list: no sunroof, no ventilated seats, and no 360-degree camera — things many rivals now offer at this price point.
6. Fuel Efficiency: Respectable for an AT
Over 5,000 km of mixed driving, I averaged about 13-14 km/l — not bad for an automatic petrol SUV. Highway runs delivered up to 16 km/l with a light foot, while city traffic brought it down to around 11-12 km/l.
7. Service & Ownership: Early Signs Are Positive
Citroen’s service network is still growing, but my initial service experience was smooth and professional. Costs were reasonable, and the service staff seemed well-trained. Parts availability wasn’t an issue, though it’s something to keep an eye on as the vehicle ages.
Verdict: A Niche Choice That Makes Sense for Comfort Seekers
After 5,000 km, the Citroen Basalt AT has proven itself to be a capable, comfortable, and stylish urban SUV. It’s not the fastest or the most feature-loaded, but if you value a smooth drive, unique design, and ride quality that beats rivals, the Basalt is worth considering.
It may not appeal to everyone, but for those looking to stand out and drive something different, the Basalt is quietly charming — and over time, it grows on you.
Hello, my name is Himanshu Kumar and I am an experienced Digital Marketer. I have been blogging for the last 4 years and I have special interest in SEO. Here I give you easy bikes and writes easy-to-understand reviews and news about the latest bikes, helping readers choose the best options.. My aim is to always provide you with accurate, new and useful information.
