Citroen’s journey in India has been a slow burn. While its cars have always stood out for comfort-focused suspension and distinctive design, early models missed the mark on features and perceived premiumness. With the introduction of the rebranded ‘X’ range, the French carmaker has clearly listened to feedback—and the Citroen Basalt X is the clearest example yet of this renewed approach.
With a heavily updated interior, richer equipment list and sharper positioning, the question is simple: does the Basalt X finally deliver enough substance to match its striking coupe-crossover design? We put it through our real-world road test to find out.
Design & Engineering: A True Coupe-Crossover
The Basalt X remains one of the most visually distinctive cars in its price band. The sloping roofline, pinched glass area and sculpted rear give it a strong coupe-like identity, while chunky cladding and 180mm ground clearance reinforce its crossover credentials.
What works well:
Unique three-box coupe-SUV silhouette
Slim LED DRLs and headlamps
Sculpted tail-lamps with intricate detailing
Strong stance and clean proportions
What could be better:
16-inch alloys look slightly undersized
Old-school flap-type door handles feel dated
Dimensionally, the Basalt X sits in an interesting sweet spot—shorter than midsize sedans but wider and taller, helping interior space without making it bulky.
Interior Space & Comfort: A Big Step Forward
This is where the Basalt X makes its biggest leap. From the mid-spec variants onwards, the cabin has been completely reworked, and the difference is immediately noticeable.
Interior highlights:
New layered dashboard with tan-and-black dual-tone theme
Soft-touch leatherette surfaces and textured plastics
7-inch digital instrument cluster
10.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
Subtle ambient lighting that lifts the cabin ambience
Seating & Space
Front seats are wide and comfortable, though tall drivers may find the seat height a bit too high even at its lowest setting
Rear seat space is generous for legroom; headroom is adequate despite the sloping roof
Winged rear headrests and adjustable thigh support (top variant) add genuine comfort
Boot Space
With 470 litres, the Basalt X offers the largest boot in its segment, easily beating many sedans. The wide-opening tailgate adds practicality, though the loading lip is a bit high.
Features & Safety: Now Properly Equipped
Citroen has clearly addressed earlier complaints about missing features.
Key features include:
Ventilated front seats
Cruise control
Keyless entry with proximity unlock
Auto-dimming IRVM
Wireless phone charger
Climate control with physical buttons
Optional 360-degree camera (resolution could be better)
Safety is reassuring:
6 airbags
ESP and hill-start assist
TPMS
4-star Bharat NCAP rating
A sunroof is still missing, which some buyers may notice, but overall, the Basalt X now feels competitive.
Engines, Performance & Refinement
The Basalt X continues with two 1.2-litre petrol engines:
| Engine | Power | Torque | Gearbox |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 NA Petrol | 82hp | 115Nm | 5MT |
| 1.2 Turbo Petrol | 110hp | 190Nm (MT) / 205Nm (AT) | 6MT / 6AT |
How does it drive?
Naturally aspirated petrol: Well-suited for city use, light controls and relaxed driving. Performance is adequate but not exciting.
Turbo-petrol: Clearly the better choice. It feels eager, responsive and makes highway overtakes effortless.
The 6-speed torque-converter automatic prioritises smoothness over sportiness. Shifts aren’t lightning-fast, but it suits the Basalt’s comfort-first character.
Refinement is acceptable, though both engines being three-cylinder units means some vibration at idle and audible engine noise when pushed hard.
Mileage & Real-World Efficiency
Despite not matching claimed figures, real-world efficiency is respectable.
| Variant | City | Highway |
|---|---|---|
| 1.2 NA Petrol | ~11.8 kmpl | ~15.8 kmpl |
| 1.2 Turbo AT | ~9.9 kmpl | ~15.0 kmpl |
For a petrol-only lineup, these numbers are competitive.
Ride Comfort & Handling: Segment Benchmark
Ride quality has always been Citroen’s strength, and the Basalt X continues that tradition.
Broken roads are absorbed with ease
Suspension feels supple and mature
High ground clearance helps on rough surfaces
There is some body roll at higher speeds and mild floatiness on undulating highways, but the car always feels predictable and secure. Steering is light in the city and easy to live with, making daily driving effortless.
Price & Rivals
Citroen Basalt X prices (ex-showroom):
NA Petrol: ₹7.95 lakh – ₹9.42 lakh
Turbo Petrol: ₹10.82 lakh – ₹13.11 lakh
It competes with:
Maruti Dzire
Hyundai Aura
Honda Amaze
Compact SUVs and entry-level midsize sedans
Verdict: Is the Citroen Basalt X Worth Buying?
With this update, the Citroen Basalt X finally feels complete. The improved interior, expanded feature list and still-excellent ride quality make it a genuinely attractive option—especially for buyers who value comfort, space and something a little different from the norm.
Its biggest limitation remains Citroen’s limited dealership network, but if you have a service centre nearby, the Basalt X is now a distinctive, comfortable and well-priced alternative that deserves serious consideration.
FAQs: Citroen Basalt X
Q. Is the Citroen Basalt X a good family car?
Yes. It offers excellent ride comfort, a spacious rear seat and a massive boot.
Q. Which engine should I choose?
The 1.2-litre turbo-petrol is the better all-rounder, especially for highway use.
Q. Does the Basalt X have a sunroof?
No, a sunroof is not offered on any variant.
Q. How safe is the Citroen Basalt X?
It comes with 6 airbags and has scored a 4-star Bharat NCAP rating.
Q. What is the biggest strength of the Basalt X?
Its ride comfort, spacious boot and unique coupe-crossover design.
