The battle for the hearts and wallets of young SUV buyers just intensified. At the ongoing Sao Paulo Motor Show, Citroën has pulled the wraps off the Basalt Vision, a sportier and more aggressive take on its Creta-rivalling coupe-SUV. This isn’t just a simple new trim level; it’s a concept that signals a clear intent to capture the sporty compact SUV segment.
While the standard Basalt offers a distinctive design, the Basalt Vision turns the style dial up to eleven. Painted in a vibrant yellow—reminiscent of its launch hero colour—the concept makes a bold visual statement.
A Design That Demands Attention
The changes are immediately noticeable. The Vision sits lower to the ground, giving it a planted, athletic stance that promises better road manners. It rides on striking new 18-inch alloy wheels with a multi-spoke, petal-like design, behind which you can spot bold red brake calipers. Red accents are strategically placed across the body, complementing the new, more sculpted front and rear bumpers. “Vision” badging on the front doors completes the look, marking this as a special edition.
This focused approach continues inside, though Citroën has kept the interior under wraps for now. Industry expectations suggest the Vision package will be based on the top-spec variant of the Basalt. If so, buyers can look forward to a modern cabin featuring a dual-screen setup for the infotainment and instrument cluster, advanced connected car technology, ventilated front seats, a 360-degree camera for easy maneuvering, and automatic climate control.
Performance to Match the Looks
A sporty appearance needs the power to back it up, and Citroën seems to have taken note. While official powertrain details are still confirmed, it is highly likely that the Basalt Vision will be exclusively offered with the more potent 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine. This unit produces a healthy 108bhp and 205Nm of torque, providing the spirited performance its looks suggest. Buyers would likely have the choice between a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Launch Timeline and Market Prospects
For now, the Citroën Basalt Vision is a concept revealed for the Brazilian market. However, given the strategic importance of the Indian market for the brand, an India launch in the coming year is a strong possibility. Positioned as a more stylish and dynamic alternative to mainstream options like the Hyundai Creta, the Basalt Vision would command a slight premium over the standard top variant.
With its head-turning design and promised turbocharged performance, the Basalt Vision presents a compelling new choice for buyers seeking an SUV that stands out from the crowd. It poses a direct challenge to established players by offering a unique blend of European flair and sporty intent.
