[samdm]

Hello all

I recently got myself a Basalt. I call it Lord BasAlto. Actually many folks wanted to know which car I got - I told them Basalt and somehow managed to mumble an 'tto' at the end god knows why, maybe due to my heavy Delhi drawl of ending words with stressed vowels. One of them quipped, bas alto (only Alto?). That name stuck with me! Relatives/friends think I only an Alto while more educated ones know this isn't true but they still couldn't make out when I told them the name of the car or brand. That's good. I am not a man of show-offs. I love deceptions and things that keep it lowkey.

What I wanted
A turbo fun-to-drive automatic car that can house good luggage and 4-5 folks at any given point of time along with good ride quality.

The cars I considered initially are summarized below along with why I couldn't go with them. For your information, I only chose to drive top automatic models for reasons best known to my aging 35 year old instincts that asked me to avoid manuals.

• Seltos - I drove the X line, the top tier Seltos and by God what a car this was. The ride quality, as opposed to the infamy it carries, was such a pleasant surprise. The doors shut and they cut you out from the external traffic noise almost as if you have switched off the audio. And feature list is endless adas works so beautifully, adaptive guidelines on camera are godsend aids for even seasoned drivers. If there is a car in Indian car market I consider as complete, it is Seltos hands down. It carries virtually all features that you can have in a car without skimping much.
  
  I didn't buy this because of my severe detest for panoramic sunroofs. Sunroofs are somewhat okay but replacing entire roof with glass housing, especially for my use case where I have to use external parking is an irrational idea. Secondly, almost 24L onroad didn't find the ring with the sane voice inside me. I had to sadly part ways. But the matte gray sultress looked awesome.

• Magnite: I know. Don't give me those stares. I love cars that proffer VFM feature set for some reason more than those that sell by their names irrespective of the brand. Magnite, in the bottom range comes with great value-for-money features and offerings. Except for a few like cruise control, adas (new model incoming is supposed to have this) even the existing model has great traits. The CVT transmission is gold - the smoothest of all. Japs do know how to make some good CVTs. Then 360 cam,
  
  Turbo was a good to drive car. Only if it was less bumpy, and it felt a little cramped with five guys. Dicky too wasn't that big. I moved on from initial infatuation towards realization...

• Slavia: If there is a car I could buy only for looks, it would be Slavia hands down. A car only for those whom she thinks can have her. If you didn't decide to buy it, it's your discretionary loss, not hers. The beauty she carries is beyond the words. Features or not, she is complete in herself. I drove the 1.5DSG and I now know why they stand by DSG like a toxic partner who isn't that loyal but nonetheless a fun partner to be with. I didn't buy her because parking spaces in metro cities are limited for sedans and I didn't want to haggle with attendants as to why they want more..

• 3XO - I didn't drive nor considered it. Mahindra dealer wasn't keen on offering a drive of the top model either. Great engine option and interiors along with a feature list. Alas, that boot space and my need for acres for upcoming family events. Lacks severely on that part. And it looks like a little cute XUV700 instead of an independent 300 on its own, to my eyes. No identity of its own. Skipped

• Taigun - Frankly, didn't impress me much. Small footprint, okayish boot space, good engine and interiors but compared to Kushaq it looked so muted and light, it didn't even appeal to me although it can be very choicely as a car for those who love the great color options VW comes up with.

• Elevate: The highest disappointment in a car in terms of engine. The test drive car had ran only 1200kms and the engine felt so strained that I almost felt pity on it. I was running on 60kmph and the engine was at 100kmph! I gave up after a test ride. I took a drive straight after driving Basalt. The Elevate was bumpier than aging bones. Each pothole was felt inside and was noisy too. Maybe just for me ...although as a surprise, the audio quality of the speakers inside was sublime!

Enter Basalt: I wasn't even considering Citroen up until the first time I saw a yellow Basalt on brochures and that view sure looked spectacular. Muscular and imposing. I subscribed for notifications and later in July, I received communication that Basalt was incoming. The spy shots were already out and I was more excited.

Off it came, I went to showroom and was a little disappointed. I mean for 15.5L priced top model (Delhi), it offers a disappointing proposition for money it demands.
* No 360 Cam
* No ADAS
* No CC

But the truth is, for 15L I cannot have anything in our market that offers what it does. 3XO won't offer you boot space, Elevate won't give you engine option yada yada...

And it offered the best ride quality of all with a great engine and spacious interiors. We took test drive with six persons onboard and the way it pulled was beautifully linear. Yes, a little rubber band in place but nothing that could kill the thrill.

Above all - it was satisfying on two crucial things - my love for Sedans and the practicality of a cross over. The drooping edge gave it a spectacular derriere look which the parking attendant to this day still harps to me whenever I go and pick it up! Huge boot space and still managing to keep it under 4.5m. It was a no-nonsense choice considering these points.

I made the booking and got delivery in 15 days! I chose a specific color that is not listed on Citroen India website for Basalt. Steel grey with Black sunroof. It looked ravishing and I wonder why they didn't put it up as color options. And gives a novelty feel of having a color that will stump everyone who wants to know

What I love about it

• * Looks and novelty - It looks dapper in silver with black sunroof. And I parked it next to a Curvv in front of a Tata showroom, people were checking Basalto out as well.

• * Spacious and comfortable - Inside cabin, the space is never the concern. The leg space rivals sedans and three healthy folks can sit properly. Ride quality is Citroen special thing and the same potholes that used to give me jitters on other car, are barely felt. Have to see how these suspension struts hold up in the long run.

• * Engine - While not the best screamer out there, it sure is best of both - it kicks in when you ask it else drive it sedately it will hand you good mileage and thrill when you ask for it.

• * No sunroof - I know many consider it a deal maker. But for me, it was a blessing in disguise. I hated sunroofs since once I got drenched due to a leaking sunroof (I won't write the model name here, not here to play slanders) and decided my car wouldn't have it.

What I wished could be better:

• * Missing ADAS, CC, Direct TPMS, HOD, 360Cam, UV Cut glass - and list goes on of the features I wished I could have had in my first ownership. But hey lesser frills mean less headache with maintenance, right? Tell me yes pls (That's one coping way of patting myself on the back for not having these)

• * Cost cutting measures - rear reverse light won't light up for driver side lol. Many others that I will observe as I drive more and update.

I bought it from La Maison Citroën Ghaziabad whom I find good since they got me a color I never expected to own. They were good with their prices but only after much haggling.

Thank you for reading out a newbie's attempt to be a thread owner here.

[samdm]

Basalt scores 4 stars in BNCAP tests

[Maverick_4662]

Got this pricelist from the SA at Citroen Trivandrum. 17L+ for the top variant seems to make pretty less sense. Also could someone explain what the " incidental charges" and "VAS" are? New fancy terms for the illegal Handling charges?

[Aditya_Bhp]

Originally Posted by Maverick_4662

Got this pricelist from the SA at Citroen Trivandrum. 17L+ for the top variant seems to make pretty less sense.

This is definitely looking overpriced compared to equivalent variants in cars like the Elevate and Taigun also. The MG Windsor EV is cheaper and more practical. I don't think people are confident to spend 15 lakhs+ on a Citroen in India right now.
If its the Citroen Basalt, get the base model only.

[TheGearBox]

Originally Posted by Maverick_4662

Got this pricelist from the SA at Citroen. Also could someone explain what the " incidental charges" and "VAS" are? New fancy terms for the illegal Handling charges?

I suspect "incidental charges" refers to the infamous handling charges. VAS could be a service package, I've seen it in somebody's quote for a Hycross to (although the price is different from what is mentioned on Citroen's website).

Also, I'm pretty sure you should be able to save around 15k on insurance if taken from outside.

[Razor44]

Originally Posted by Maverick_4662

Got this pricelist from the SA at Citroen Trivandrum. 17L+ for the top variant seems to make pretty less sense. Also could someone explain what the " incidental charges" and "VAS" are? New fancy terms for the illegal Handling charges?

Checkout the prices at Raipur which I posted here (Citroen Basalt Review) . There they have directly quoted" handling charges" and here they have split that into "Incidental charges " plus "VAS". I think on negotiation they will drop the "handling charges". Not so sure when they term it as VAS or Incidental Charges . Maybe ask them what they are and show them the Raipur pricelist where there are no such charges.

BTw, why are they charging 900 for Fastag ??

[NEWTON-METERS]

Originally Posted by samdm

Hello all

I recently got myself a Basalt.

Congratulations on getting the Citroën Basalt! It's certainly a great value proposition for what it offers. Citroën currently boasts the most balanced suspension in the under-15-lakh category, paired with a highly enjoyable engine.
When they first entered the Indian market, the mistake Citroën made was offering bare-bones cars on a budget, which didn't resonate with Indian consumers, who have evolved beyond that need. However, they've made amends with the Basalt and updated features in both the C3 and C5 models. Hopefully, it’s not a case of "too little, too late."
That said, you've made a solid choice with a well-rounded and potent car. Looking forward to seeing your long-term review a year from now!

[VWAllstar]

Originally Posted by samdm

I recently got myself a Basalt

So there are people like me who go against the tide

I don't know know if I enjoyed your writing style more or the first owner review of the Basalt..oo!

I took a test drive last week and was impressed with its' ride quality. I loved the Red and since you mentioned, Yellow, oh dear I so wish to see it in person now. Not Curvv, but a Yellow Basalt would be the true Desi Lambo.

It is definitely built to cost but they have covered the basics pretty well. I feel, Citroen is still testing waters in India. They are neither here (premium) nor there (budget)

Congratulations on your Basalt, it is a no nonsense car and will serve you fruitfully for many years.

[parzival]

Originally Posted by Maverick_4662

Got this pricelist from the SA at Citroen Trivandrum. 17L+ for the top variant seems to make pretty less sense. Also could someone explain what the " incidental charges" and "VAS" are? New fancy terms for the illegal Handling charges?

I did ask the SA about VAS when I got the quote from EVM Citroen Cochin and he said it’s not handling charges, but at the same time couldn’t explain why they are collecting the VAS for. I found VAS in a quote for a Nissan Magnite, again from an EVM dealership here. I test drove many cars in the last 2 months and no other showroom have given a quote with handling charges for their cars.

[sapien]

Did a quick 10 km test drive of the Basalt Petrol Automatic. I'll share my observations as an end user and compare it with my current rides (Tiago, XUV700, Glanza - all petrol) to provide a clearer view for potential owners.

Engine:
I feel this should be the most important criterion when choosing a car. The initial pull is very strong. Despite being a turbo engine, it has strong low-end power and accelerates smoothly from a standstill. On highways, after 80 kmph, the power tapers off. I couldn't exceed 90 kmph in the city, so can't comment beyond that. Quick starts from red signals will be fun in this car. I had reset the fuel meter at start, and it showed 9 kmpl fuel efficiency at the end of fairly spirited drive. The gear lever doesn't move in straight line, it has notches for different positions.
XUV700 > Glanza > Basalt > Tiago

NVH:
Noise – It's quiet up to 60 kmph, and gentle throttle inputs keep cabin noise minimal. However, if you push it hard, some noise indicates the engine is working harder. The AC becomes noisy at full blower speed. Road noise starts creeping into the cabin after 60 kmph.
Vibrations – Super smooth, with no vibrations at all at any speed up to 90 kmph. It’s well-balanced and doesn’t feel like a 3-cylinder engine.
Harshness – Overall, it’s a refined car, but under hard acceleration, it pulls strongly and feels like it's working harder.
Glanza > XUV700 > Basalt > Tiago

Ride:
This is Citroen’s strongest point in India, and they need to market it well. The low-speed ride is phenomenal; I didn’t need to slow down for small city bumps, craters, or unscientific speed breakers. It glides over them without feeling floaty. At higher speeds, the ride feels mature and confidence inspiring.
Basalt > Tiago > XUV700 > Glanza

Handling and Steering:
Handling is good but not exceptional. At lower speeds, the steering isn’t as light as Hyundai or Mahindra but is manageable. If you’re used to super-light steering, this isn’t as effortless at parking speeds. At mid to high speeds, the steering weighs up well and performs as expected. However, if you try to change direction while accelerating hard, it tends to get nervous, and I had to let off the gas to regain composure. Taigun and Kushaq are better handlers.
XUV700 > Tiago > Basalt > Glanza

Interiors:
The interior is pleasant and functional, with all buttons easily accessible and of good quality. Ergonomically, it’s well sorted. The seat has height adjustment with excellent range, so anyone can find a comfortable driving position. The steering has tilt adjustment with decent travel. The AC buttons are tactile and can be operated without looking after becoming familiar with them. The center armrest fouls with the handbrake when extended because the handbrake is on the passenger side. The ORVMs and IRVM are of decent size and provide good visibility. The seats are of good quality, but the leatherette finish felt inferior to the XUV700. Comfort is good in both the front and rear. The dashboard and materials are all hard plastics but of good quality, with no creaking noises in a 1,800 km run test drive car. VW and Skoda could learn from Citroen here. There are 2 cabin lamps with a yellowish hue. It seems they aren't LEDs, but I’m not sure. The view from inside is good, and the bonnet was visible to me at 5'6" height, even at the lowest seat position, though it lacks an SUV feel and is more car-like to drive.
XUV700 > Basalt > Tiago > Glanza

AC:
It cooled well but not as efficiently as the C3. It's quite noisy at full blower speed, but this might be because it was a hot day, and I did the test drive around 2 pm. Overall, cooling was more than satisfactory. No sunroof is an added advantage here, and I didn’t miss it.
Glanza > XUV700 > Basalt > Tiago

Space utilization:
The cabin space is good but not comparable to Creta/Seltos or GV/Hyryder. The rear can seat 2 adults comfortably, but the third will be a squeeze. Small children can sit easily. The boot space is excellent, and you can pack for 5 adults for a week-long road trip in Indian style.
Glanza > Basalt > Tiago > XUV700

Exterior:
The car looks good aesthetically, but looks are subjective. It has 16-inch wheels with striking alloys. Slightly bigger wheels could improve its stance and road presence. The pull-up door handles were not an issue, and I didn’t even register them as unusual. They are cohesive and don’t cause any problems. However, the keyhole is an eyesore. The door thud is good in both the front and rear. The boot lid has decent weight. Note, the car has scored 4 stars in BNCAP. The flip-type key is of good quality but again, made of hard plastic.
XUV700 > Basalt > Tiago > Glanza

Overall:
When I saw it in pictures, it looked great, but on the road, it seems smaller and was a bit underwhelming. However, on the road, it garnered a lot of glances, and even bigger vehicles like the Fortuner gave way at intersections. Currv, on the other hand, looks better with its bold design on the road, also it seems to have more premium interiors compared to Basalt. Though the C3 Aircross appears bigger than the Creta, this car is not comparable to the Creta in terms of size, maybe due to its sloping roofline and shorter wheelbase, which make the Basalt look smaller. The top-end model goes for around 16 lakh+ and feels pricey at that range. It's a good attempt to boost sales and can be improved in future iterations. Anyone looking for Magnite, Kiger, Venue, Sonet, Brezza, 3XO can consider but those looking for Currv, Creta, Hyryder etc may not go for this!
Pricelist : Basalt 17 Aug 24.pdf

Note: Although I don't own a Citroen, the Pune dealer B4S Motors has been consistent, providing home test drives of the C3, C5, and Basalt after a couple of follow-ups over the years.

Some pics -

[marinerandy]

Originally Posted by samdm

Hello all

I recently got myself a Basalt. I call it Lord BasAlto.

Recently I was driving from Puducherry to Bengaluru and somewhere in between was a Citroën showroom. I just caught a silhouette of a Basalt standing outside with side view in steel grey shade. I immediately slowed down to have a proper look. Boy o boy, it looks hot from the side. Congrats on your purchase.

[arjab]

Originally Posted by samdm

Hello all

I recently got myself a Basalt.

You got yourself the most mechanically well-sorted car below 1.5million rupees available in the market today.
That PSA EB series turbo engine is a gem and Citroen has done a very good job tuning it for Indian conditions giving it the right fuel calibration to impart that beautiful, smooth and linear acceleration. The chassis also dovetails nicely with the suspension and offers high levels of occupant comfort.
Stylistically, at a personal level, I find the Basalt to be far more elegant and proportionate than the Tata Curvv (its main rival).

Hope Citroen markets this well because this car deserves to succeed. Citroen dealers are not a very happy lot, as the initial lot of dealers lost a great deal of money on the bare bones, (but mechanically brilliant), C3's which bombed in the market. PSA needs to up dealer incentives, keep them happy and expand their retail network, (a tough task in convincing prospective dealers), to ensure the company and its products continue in our country.

Wish you many miles of happy motoring with the lovely French beauty.

Best,

[souvikjana83]

You could have considered MG Astor as well. The features and premium feel it has even at the base model at less than ₹10L ex showroom is fantastic. If you would have taken the mid variant automatic, it would be around the same cost probably but with much more premium, safety and value for money.

[samdm]

Originally Posted by souvikjana83

You could have considered MG Astor as well. The features and premium feel it has even at the base model at less than ₹10L ex showroom is fantastic. If you would have taken the mid variant automatic, it would be around the same cost probably but with much more premium, safety and value for money.

I did drive it back in 2023. The NA engine was a slouch to drive and frankly didn't impress at all. And adding to woes was a friend who owns Hector, he advised me stay away from 4km/l beauties from MG. Hence this was out of scope since beginning, unwittingly

[souvikjana83]

Originally Posted by samdm

I did drive it back in 2023. The NA engine was a slouch to drive and frankly didn't impress at all. And adding to woes was a friend who owns Hector, he advised me stay away from 4km/l beauties from MG. Hence this was out of scope since beginning, unwittingly

While I agree on the pickup that it's a bit underpowered especially with the AC on but with addition of a windbooster, the pickup greatly improves. In city normal traffic, it gives around 10 kmpl and on highway it gives around 14 kmpl. It's a heavy car with solid build quality.

Congratulations on your Basalt. Wishing you have a great drive and great time.