PRODUCED in Chennai, India, it marks Citroën’s first foray, outside of Europe, into the coupe-styled crossover segment.
Stellantis owned brand, Citroën has established reputation as a technological, premium brand rather than one now aimed at developing markets, according to the manufacturer.
As I took it for a spin, the familiar frontal design from the Aircross is still reminiscent, so is the coupe-inspired sloping roof.
Still distinctive yet “cross-sedan” rather than a traditional crossover you may add.
Citroën has settled on two derivatives, the Plus and the Max, only differentiated by specifications.
It comes both in equipped 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, wheel arch cladding, LED fog lamps and LED daytime running lights on the front.
Basalt- is supported by:
- folding electric mirrors;
- multi-function steering wheel;
- push-button start;
- keyless entry;
- automatic air-conditioning;
- two type-C USB ports;
- seven-inch digital instrument cluster;
- rear air-conditioning vents;
- front and rear armrests;
- 10-inch infotainment system;
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Although I did not use much of its boot space is rated at 470-litres without the rear seats folded, one must mention its big enough to carry few tons of ‘bricks’ for practicality purposes.
In terms of safety it is boosted by driver assistance systems across, including six airbags, a tyre pressure monitor, rear parking sensors, Electronic Stability Control and Hill Start Assist and a reverse camera.
It held its own on quick turns associated with open areas such as Muldersdrift, Joburg’s country side, that is usually associated with big machines on weekends, thanks to its single engine- that is 1.2-litre three-cylinder PureTech turbocharged petrol engine outputting 82kW/204Nm.
The six-speed automatic gearbox did not consume much fuel, that was dependent on acceleration- not a speedster but it will take you to your city or nearest shopping mall for errands.
Interior design is straightforward, neat and uncluttered and cabin’s sound ergonomics are further bolstered by upmarket-feeling materials, especially the fabric finishes on the dashboard and the red accents.
As for touch-sensitive switchgear, all of the functions are still controlled by physical buttons and dials, with none of the traditional functions located within the infotainment system.
Aside from the comfort provided by seats finished in two-tone black-and-grey fabric with a red strip and Citroën embroidery, the Basalt’s main highlight is its ride.
Standing at 180 mm ground clearance, the suspension is yet another throwback to placing comfort above sportiness.
One of my colleagues was concerned about the exterior doors feeling cheap and awkward, indicating what happens if the door handles comes off?
With that said, I continued to enjoyin’ my ride in the Black Pearl colour Basalt.
Other colours includes Polar White, Steel Grey, Cosmo Blue and Garnet Red.
Included across Basalt models is a five-year/100 000 km warranty and a four-year/60 000 km service plan.
- Basalt 1.2T Plus AT – R354 900
- Basalt 1.2T Max AT – R369 900
Verdict
Performance 1-10 (6)
Fuel 1-10 (7)
Image SLM (Citroën Basalt not a head-turner but does the job.)
