Citroen Basalt New Features Revealed Ahead of Launch
Citroen is set to unveil its latest model, the Basalt coupe-SUV, on August 2. This new vehicle is expected to be a significant upgrade over the existing C3 Aircross, with various enhancements designed to appeal to a broader audience. A recent promotional film, featuring designer Masaba Gupta, has shed light on several key features that set the Basalt apart from its predecessor.
Key Upgrades and Features
The Citroen Basalt introduces several notable upgrades compared to the C3 Aircross, enhancing both comfort and convenience for its users:
- Upgraded Rear Features:
- Electric Retractable Wing Mirrors: Unlike the manual wing mirrors on the C3 Aircross, the Basalt will come with electric retract functionality, offering a more modern and convenient experience.
- Rear Power Window Controls: The Basalt will move the rear power window buttons from the awkwardly placed front center console to the rear doors. This relocation improves accessibility and usability for rear passengers.
- Rear AC Vents: The Basalt will include rear AC vents mounted on the floor behind the front center console, providing better air circulation compared to the C3 Aircross’s roof-mounted vents. This feature adds a touch of premium feel to the Basalt, despite the absence of a sunroof.
- Interior Comfort and Convenience:
- Auto Climate Control: The new model will feature auto climate control with user-friendly toggle switches, enhancing the driving comfort.
- Contoured Rear Headrests: Designed for better support and comfort for rear passengers.
- Front Armrest with Storage: This addition offers more practicality and convenience for the driver and front passenger.
Despite these enhancements, the Basalt will retain some elements from the C3 Aircross, such as the old-school keyhole below the flap-type door handles, which means it will not feature keyless entry.
Powertrain and Performance
The Basalt will be powered by the same 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine used in the C3 Aircross. This engine produces 110 horsepower and 205 Nm of torque. Buyers will have the option to choose between a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed torque converter automatic. This powertrain configuration ensures that the Basalt offers a balanced combination of performance and efficiency.
Market Positioning and Pricing
Citroen plans to position the Basalt above the C3 Aircross in its lineup, making it a more premium offering in the SUV segment. The expected starting price for the Basalt is around ₹11 lakh to ₹12 lakh (ex-showroom). This pricing is designed to place the Basalt in direct competition with models like the Tata Curvv, which is known for its distinct design and features.
Conclusion
The Citroen Basalt is poised to be a noteworthy addition to the SUV market, with significant upgrades over the C3 Aircross. Its enhanced features, such as the electric retractable wing mirrors, improved rear AC vents, and better interior convenience, are likely to attract buyers looking for a modern and comfortable vehicle. With its competitive pricing and advanced features, the Basalt aims to carve out a niche in the increasingly popular SUV segment.
For those interested in learning more about the Basalt, Citroen’s official launch event on August 2 will provide the full details and reveal the vehicle’s complete specifications.
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