For years, the Hyundai Creta has comfortably reigned as India’s best-selling SUV, earning its spot through proven reliability and family-friendly comfort. But what if there was a challenger that could match—or even surpass—the Creta in key areas like ride comfort and unique style, all at a competitive price? For a while, that challenger, the Citroën Basalt, remained in the shadows, held back by a sparse features list.
Not anymore.
Citroën has listened and launched a comprehensive update: the Basalt X. This isn’t just a minor refresh; it’s a direct address to its previous shortcomings, transforming it from a niche proposition into a genuinely compelling package that demands your attention.
The Unmatched Comfort
The Creta is comfortable, but the Basalt has always played a different game entirely. Its secret weapon is a ride quality that is often described as best-in-class. Citroën’s focus on advanced suspension tuning means the Basalt glides over imperfections, offering a magic-carpet ride that isolates passengers from harsh roads far better than most rivals.
This comfort extends to the rear seats, which are not only spacious but also feature a segment-first adjustable thigh support. This thoughtful addition ensures exceptional comfort on long journeys, making a strong case for the Basalt as a dedicated family tourer. Despite its coupe-like sloping roofline, cabin space remains generous for passengers.
Addressing the Flaws
The pre-update model’s cabin felt behind the times. The Basalt X changes that narrative completely. The interior has undergone a significant overhaul, featuring a new dashboard design that looks and feels more premium.
Crucially, Citroën has loaded it with the features buyers expect:
- Cara: An AI-powered voice assistant for intuitive controls.
- Ventilated Seats: A blessing in the Indian summer.
- 360-Degree Camera: Adds immense confidence in tight parking situations.
- Ambient Lighting & Premium Materials: Elevate the cabin atmosphere.
These additions, alongside existing features like cruise control and an auto-dimming mirror, finally bring the Basalt’s cabin up to modern standards, removing its biggest drawback.
Performance and Network
Under the hood, the options remain familiar. You can choose between a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine (80 BHP) or a more potent 1.2-litre turbo-petrol unit (108 BHP). The turbo engine, especially when paired with the available 6-speed automatic transmission, offers the best blend of performance and driveability for city and highway use.
However, one significant hurdle remains: Citroën’s limited service network in India. While the product itself is now highly attractive, potential buyers must realistically check for service center availability in their city and on their frequent travel routes. This is arguably the final box Citroën needs to tick to see true sales success.
A Bold and Refreshing Alternative
The Citroën Basalt X is no longer just the “comfortable one.” It is now a fully-rounded, feature-packed SUV that brilliantly combines its unique styling, class-leading ride quality, and newfound premium tech. For the discerning buyer who values a superior driving experience and wants to stand out from the crowd, the Basalt X presents a incredibly persuasive argument. It challenges the segment norms and proves that with the right updates, an underdog can truly become a top contender.
