Citroen Unveils Basalt Vision: A Sneak Peek Into The Future Of Compact SUVs
Citroën is set to unveil its newest addition to the Indian market with the debut of its compact coupe SUV, the Basalt Vision, scheduled for March 27th. Offering a fresh take on the SUV silhouette, the Basalt Vision promises a blend of sleek design elements and practicality. While the official unveiling is yet to come, Citroën has given enthusiasts a glimpse of what to expect through a teaser image showcasing its distinctive side rear profile of a coupe.
The Basalt Vision, despite its concept-like name, is not expected to represent the final production model. Citroën has hinted that only the exterior styling will be revealed initially, with the interior details to follow at a later stage. This strategic move allows the French automaker to maintain an air of anticipation while gradually unveiling the vehicle”s features.
From the teaser image, several notable design cues can be discerned, including squarish LED headlamps, a prominent ducktail spoiler extending from the bootlid, and a sleek shark fin antenna. These elements contribute to the Basalt Vision”s distinctive appearance, setting it apart from its competitors in the compact SUV segment.
Sharing its CMP (Common Modular Platform) architecture with the popular C3 Aircross, the Basalt Vision ensures a solid foundation known for its efficiency and versatility. Despite its coupe-inspired design, practicality remains a key focus, with Citroën aiming to offer competitive pricing akin to the C3 Aircross, indicating potential cost-cutting measures to achieve this.
Upon its launch, the Basalt Vision will enter a competitive arena, challenging established contenders such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and the upcoming Tata Curvv ICE, which also adopts a coupe design approach. With the compact SUV segment witnessing a surge in demand, Citroën is poised to capitalize on this trend with its unique offering.
While the Basalt Vision shares underpinnings and powertrain options with the C3 Aircross, it presents its own identity with a distinct exterior styling and coupe-inspired silhouette. Expectations are high for its performance, with a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine delivering 109 bhp and 190 Nm of torque, coupled with transmission options including a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic. Notably, there will be no diesel engine variant available, aligning with the industry shift towards petrol-powered models.
Test mules of the Basalt Vision have been spotted testing, hinting at its imminent arrival. While details about the interior remain undisclosed, it is anticipated to offer a familiar layout with two rows of seats, ensuring comfort and practicality for occupants.
With its striking design, competitive pricing, and efficient performance, the Citroën Basalt Vision is poised to make a significant impact in the compact SUV segment, offering consumers a compelling alternative with its blend of style and substance.
