Below is an extended, richly detailed overview of the Citroën Basalt X launched in India at an introductory price of Rs 7.95 lakh (ex-showroom).
On 5 September 2025, Citroën India unveiled an enhanced version of its popular coupe-SUV, now branded as the Basalt X, with prices starting at Rs 7.95 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base “You” variant—an attractive new entry point for buyers.
Far from being a mere variant update, the Basalt X represents a comprehensive upgrade—blending cosmetic tweaks, improved interiors, and enriched features, all while reshuffling pricing to offer better value.
Pricing & Variant Breakdown
The Basalt X lineup comprises three core variants: You, Plus, and Max, with a newly added “X” suffix and fresher pricing structure:
- You (1.2 NA, Manual) – Rs 7.95 lakh (introductory price)
- Plus:
- NA Manual – Rs 9.42 lakh
- Turbo Manual – Rs 10.82 lakh
- Turbo Automatic – Rs 12.07 lakh
- Max:
- Turbo Manual – Rs 11.62 lakh
- Turbo Automatic – Rs 12.89 lakh, though other sources note an earlier figure of Rs 12.90 lakh
Optional extras include a 360-degree camera for Rs 25,000 and a dual-tone roof for Rs 21,000.
These prices not only introduce the Basalt X into the sub-8-lakh segment, but also lower overall pricing—e.g., the Max trim sees a nearly Rs 1 lakh reduction.
Aesthetics & Design: Distinct Yet Familiar
Exterior: Subtle Cues, Bold Identity
- A modest yet sharp ‘X’ badge on the tailgate signals the model’s new identity.
- The silhouette of the Basalt remains intact, retaining its distinctive coupe-SUV stance.
- LED DRLs integrated into the grille and 16-inch dual-tone alloy wheels elevate the road presence.
Interior: Premium Touches, Cosmetically Enhanced
- Interiors now flaunt a dual-tone tan-and-black theme, punctuated by bronze trim inserts.
- The dashboard is wrapped in leatherette and features slanted pattern imprints for upscale tactility.
- Ambient lighting (white tone) and a rear armrest with cupholders add to comfort and sophistication.
Features: Elevated, Smart, and Surprising
The Basalt X significantly upgrades its tech and comfort quotient—especially in the top-tier Max variant:
- Cara, Citroën’s AI conversational assistant, debuts here (exclusive to Max automatic). It handles tasks such as flight tracking, traffic-based route optimization, vehicle health updates, multimedia control, emergency SOS, smart reminders, and voice calling.
- Ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, cruise control, keyless entry, push-button start, and an auto-dimming IRVM feature across higher trims.
- Rear practicality boosted with wireless charging and under-thigh support (on rear seats).
- The optional 360° camera, with multiple viewing modes, enhances parking and situational awareness.
- Safety tech includes six airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, hill-hold, TPMS, ISOFIX child mounts, and a 4-star BNCAP rating from 2024.
Powertrain & Driving Dynamics: Familiar Yet Tuned
- 1.2 litre naturally aspirated petrol producing 82 bhp and ~115 Nm, paired with a 5-speed manual—offered in the You and lower Plus trims.
- 1.2 litre turbo-petrol, tuned to 110 bhp and up to 205 Nm, available with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed torque-converter automatic, offered in higher Plus and Max trims.
- No changes to the drivetrains—resulting in predictable and efficient performance.
Market Context & Competitiveness
Positioned under Rs 8 lakh (ex-showroom), the Basalt X ushers Citroën into a more aggressive competitive turf, taking on models like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.
Its appeal is mainly to buyers who want something that feels more premium and tech-forward than competitors—and more elevated than the standard Basalt—without a steep price hike.
Booking & Delivery: Ready for Festivities
Bookings for the Basalt X opened on 22 August 2025, with a token amount of Rs 11,000.
Deliveries are slated to kick off during the festive season, with test drives starting by mid-September.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Price | Starts at Rs 7.95 lakh for You; up to Rs 12.89–12.90 lakh for Max AT |
| Variants | You, Plus, Max (with “X” enhancements) |
| Exterior | ‘X’ badging, LED DRLs, dual-tone wheels |
| Interior | Tan-black theme, leatherette dashboard, bronze trim, ambient lighting |
| Features | Cara AI assistant (Max AT), ventilated seats, large displays, wireless charging, 360 cam |
| Safety | 6 airbags, ESC, hill-hold, TPMS, ISOFIX, 4-star BNCAP |
| Powertrains | 1.2 NA (82 bhp), 1.2 Turbo (110 bhp); Manual & Auto options |
| Booking & Delivery | Rs 11,000 booking; festive season deliveries, mid-September test drives |
Conclusion
With the Basalt X, Citroën delivers a compelling blend of affordability, premium feel, and smart technology. The variant lineup caters to diverse budgets—from budget-conscious to tech-savvy buyers—while the inclusion of Cara, enhanced interiors, and aggressive pricing positions the Basalt X strongly against established rivals.
More than just a facelift, the Basalt X is Citroën’s strategic push to elevate its brand perception in India—aligning with its “Shift Into the New 2.0” strategy and underlining its commitment to “different, feel-good” motoring.
If you’d like to dive into comparisons with rivals, feature deep-dives, or cost-of-ownership estimates—feel free to ask!