Citroën India has introduced the Citroën Basalt X, a sleek and modern SUV that introduces cutting-edge technology to Indian roads. Priced at ₹7.99 lakh (ex-showroom), this SUV is also the first mainstream car in India to be equipped with an AI assistant, CARA (Citroën Advanced Response Assistant). The Basalt X has French design, comfort, safety, and technology, making it a solid choice for customers who are looking for a premium experience without a very high cost.
AI Assistant CARA
The CARA AI assistant is one of the standout features of the Basalt X. While most voice systems are simple, CARA is capable of having natural conversations and assist with various tasks so that driving becomes easy, safe, and convenient. It can monitor flight schedules and recommend the shortest path to the airport in time, check the health of the vehicle, remind you of maintenance, and even manage music or multimedia. In the event of emergencies, CARA can initiate SOS calls, route planning along with fuel monitoring, and give weather reports.
Key highlights of CARA:
- Real-time flight and traffic tracking
- Vehicle health check and maintenance reminders
- Intelligent reminders and music management
- Emergency SOS calls
- Route planning with fuel integration
- Weather and navigation updates
E.g., asking, “CARA, can I drop my daughter to school and go to the office? Do I have enough fuel?” enables the system to monitor fuel levels, find the most efficient route, and offer a comprehensive plan. CARA is only offered on the Max automatic variants presently, so it’s part of the more expensive trims.
Variants and Pricing
The Basalt X comes in several variants to suit various budgets and choices. Citroën has carefully planned the variants to offer both manual and automatic transmissions, with petrol engines that are ideal for city as well as highway usage.
Variant options:
| Variant Name | Engine Type | Transmission | Ex-Showroom Price (₹ Lakh) |
| Basalt X You 1.2L NA Petrol | 1.2L NA Petrol | 5-Speed MT | 7.99 ₹ Lakh |
| Basalt X Plus 1.2L NA Petrol | 1.2L NA Petrol | 5-Speed MT | 9.42 ₹ Lakh |
| Basalt X Plus 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 6-Speed MT | 10.82 ₹ Lakh |
| Basalt X Plus 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 6-Speed AT | 12.07 ₹ Lakh |
| Basalt X Max 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 6-Speed MT | 11.63 ₹ Lakh |
| Basalt X Max 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 6-Speed AT | 12.90 ₹ Lakh |
Additional options:
- 360-degree camera: Optional accessory, approximately ₹25,000 (subject to confirmation at dealerships).
- Dual-tone paint finish: Optional, approximately ₹21,000 (subject to confirmation at dealerships).
This cost strategy renders the Basalt X the lowest-priced car in its class, outpriced only by competitors such as Honda Elevate and Skoda Kushaq, yet packed with modern technology that is typically found in higher-priced vehicles.
Exterior Design
The Basalt X boasts a coupe-SUV design that cuts through traffic. It combines sportiness and practicality with LED headlamps with V-shaped DRLs, linked LED tail lamps, 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, and chunky lower body cladding. Its coupe-inspired roofline gives it style without compromising on headroom or boot capacity.
Dimensions and highlights:
- Length: 4,352mm | Width: 1,765mm | Height: 1,593mm
- 470-liter boot capacity
- ‘Basalt X’ badging on the rear door
- Confident road presence with city-friendly proportions
The design outside ensures the vehicle appears premium without giving up on functionality and usability for Indian roads.
Interior and Comfort
The Basalt X interior is classy and comfy at the same time. Its black and tan two-tone facade provides a premium appearance, and its features ensure that each ride is comfortable. The dashboard presents incline designs with bronze-colored accents, while the soft-feel leatherette materials provide a more luxurious feel to the cabin. Ambient lighting provides a modern feel, particularly on night drives. The rear passengers receive a convenient center armrest with cup holders, ensuring longer rides are more convenient.
Comfort and convenience options:
- Ventilated front seats to suit the Indian climate
- Push-button start and keyless entry
- Speed limiter cruise control
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- 10.2-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 7-inch digital driver display
These options make sure both driver and occupants feel comfortable, connected, and have effortless access to vehicle functions.
Engine and Performance
The Basalt X is available in two petrol engines, providing options for city and highway driving. The 1.2L naturally aspirated petrol engine produces smooth power with 82 bhp and 115 Nm torque, providing daily city driving with 18 kmpl mileage. The 1.2L turbo-petrol engine offers 110 bhp and up to 205 Nm of torque, available with manual and automatic transmission options.
Advantages of a turbo engine:
- Strong mid-range performance for city as well as highway driving
- Torque from low RPM, making starts and overtakes convenient
- Fuel efficiency of 19.5 kmpl (manual) / 18.7 kmpl (automatic)
These engines are suited to Indian road conditions, balancing performance and fuel efficiency while offering a smooth driving experience.
Safety Features
The Basalt X is a safety reliable and has received a 4-star Bharat NCAP rating. The chassis employs high-strength steel for absorbing crash forces efficiently, thereby guarding passengers in the event of an impact. It also features top-grade safety gear on all variants.
Crash test ratings:
- Adult Occupant Protection: 26.19/32
- Side Impact: 16/16
- Frontal Crash: 10.19/16
- Child Occupant Protection: 35.90/49
- Basic safety features:
- Six airbags (front, side, curtain)
- Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
- Hill Hold Assist
- ABS with EBD and Brake Assist
- ISOFIX child seat anchors
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- 3-point seat belts with reminders
These features guarantee safety for adults and children alike, providing peace of mind for all family members.
Connectivity and Technology
In addition to CARA, Basalt X also comes with advanced connectivity features to engage drivers and keep them informed. Its 10.2-inch touchscreen is wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible. Bluetooth hands-free calling, USB connectivity, and wireless charging pad offer ease for all passengers. Optional driver-assistance features such as a 360-degree camera and rear parking sensors offer ease in parking and maneuvering.
Market Position and Advantages
The Basalt X faces competition from SUVs such as Tata Curvv, Kia Seltos, Honda Elevate, Maruti Grand Vitara, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and MG Astor.
Basalt X’s key strengths are:
- ₹2–4 lakh lower base price than the competition
- First AI assistant in India in this segment
- French-styled Coupe-SUV design
- Roomy boot space of 470 liters
- Longer wheelbase (2,651mm) than its competitors
Its affordability, technology, and premium design make it extremely competitive in the compact SUV market.
Booking and Delivery
- Booking Amount: ₹11,000 through dealerships or official website
- Pre-bookings: Opened since August 22, 2025
- Launch Date: September 5, 2025
- Delivery Timeline: Commenced in early September 2025
- Festive Season Availability: Deliveries aligned with upcoming festive season
Conclusion
The Citroën Basalt X is a complete, modern SUV for the Indian customer. It combines AI technology, luxury interiors, safety, and cost-competitiveness in one affordable package. Its AI helper CARA is a benchmark for the Indian market and can also bring other brands to the same level. With its stylish look and convenience features, Basalt X is an excellent pick for anyone seeking a future-ready SUV with affordability.
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Raja Yadav, the content writer at My Car Wisdom, brings a unique voice and style to our blog. With a knack for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Raja ensures that every piece of content is informative, engaging, and easy to understand. His focus is on delivering high-quality articles that cater to both novice car owners and seasoned automotive enthusiasts.
