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Citroën is stepping up its game in India with the launch of the Basalt X Range. This is not just about adding chrome touches or a new paint shade. It is about setting the stage for how the brand wants to be seen going forward — smart, aspirational, and just a little bit different. And leading that charge is CARA, India’s first intelligent in-car companion. CARA – more than just a party trick Voice assistants in cars are not new, but CARA pushes the envelope. It is contextually aware, understands natural speech, and can handle multiple instructions in a single go. Want the AC turned down, the windows rolled up, and your favourite playlist started? One command, and it is done. That alone makes it feel like a step ahead of what you would expect in this class of car.
The Citroën Basalt
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Special Arrangement
It also goes beyond basic car functions. From checking flight statuses to reading out cricket scores, CARA makes a strong case for itself as more than a gimmick. And because it supports 52 languages, including the ability to switch mid-conversation, it is surprisingly versatile. In short, it is a very cool feature — and it works well in practice. Interiors that finally deliver One of the criticisms levelled at Citroën in India so far has been that the interiors did not always feel up to the mark compared to rivals. The Basalt X addresses that. The new leatherette dashboard, flowing seamlessly into the doors, soft-touch panels, diffused ambient lighting, and ventilated seats finally bring it closer to what buyers expect in this segment. The bezel-less 26 cm infotainment screen and digital cluster add the modern touch it needed, while thoughtful details like the smart tilt cushion and winged headrests set it apart. The result is a cabin that feels more premium and more in line with what Indian customers want when they are shopping in this price band. Ride and handling: Citroën’s ace card If there is one thing Citroën does consistently well, it is ride quality. The Basalt X carries forward that legacy with Advanced Comfort suspension that soaks up bumps and undulations in a way few rivals can match. It genuinely offers one of the best ride experiences in its class — smooth, composed, and confidence-inspiring, whether you are in the city or stretching its legs on the highway. Handling remains predictable and easy-going, more tuned for comfort than aggressive corner carving, which is exactly what this segment’s audience will appreciate.
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The Citroën Basalt
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Special Arrangement
Safety and tech in equal measure The Basalt X is not just about plushness. It comes loaded with features that make everyday driving easier: Proxi-Sense PEPS, Cruise Control with Speed Limiter, the HALO 360° camera with multiple views, and wireless charging. On the safety front, six airbags are standard, and it backs that up with ESP, Hill Hold Control, TPMS, and a strong 85% high-grade steel structure. It is the kind of spec sheet that shows Citroën is not cutting corners where it matters. Design that demands attention Outside, the Basalt still looks every bit the SUV-coupé it set out to be. The Piano Black grille with dual chevrons, diamond-cut alloys, and full LED lighting package give it presence, while its 180 mm ground clearance ensures it is not just a poser. It is a design that stands out — not universally loved, perhaps, but certainly never ignored. Engines that cover the basics Under the hood, the Basalt continues with Citroën’s PureTech engines — the 1.2L NA and the 1.2L Turbo. Transmission options include 5MT, 6MT, and 6AT. While performance figures are not headline-grabbing, the powertrains are tuned for everyday usability, offering a balance of efficiency and refinement that should keep most buyers satisfied.
The Citroën Basalt
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement
Pricing and verdict What Citroën has done with the Basalt X is sharpen its positioning. The ride quality remains its strongest card, the interiors finally feel premium, and CARA adds a genuine “wow” factor that works better than you would expect. It may not outgun rivals on outright performance, but it makes up for it with comfort, tech, and a distinctive personality. The Basalt range starts at ₹7.95 lakh, with the fully loaded Basalt X topping out at ₹12.89 lakh. Deliveries kick off during the festive season. As a product, it is quite the package. Of course, Citroen has to work at their brand awareness and make further inroads with their dealer network to truly enjoy a higher reception of their product. Having said that, the Basalt X could be their most convincing product yet! Motorscribes, in association with The Hindu, brings you the latest in cars and bikes. Follow them on Instagram Published – September 09, 2025 04:42 pm IST
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