In a market dominated by pricey compact SUVs, the Citroën Basalt arrives with a refreshing proposition.
Pictures don’t quite do it justice. In the metal, the Basalt is larger than expected. The coupé-inspired roofline adds a touch of flair to what could have otherwise been another forgettable crossover.
Inside, things become iffy. This isn’t the European-built Citroën many may be familiar with. The Basalt is produced in India as part of the French manufacturer’s strategy to make its products more attainable in developing markets, which has led to some cost-cutting.
That said, the interior remains pleasant enough. The cabin layout is simple and user-friendly; the infotainment system offers sharp graphics, and one can navigate it with ease. Cloth upholstery comes standard, and while the dashboard materials are plasticky in places, they don’t feel out of character for the price point.
The Basalt shines in practicality. Cabin space is ample for a vehicle in this class, more so in the rear, where passengers have enough room to stretch out comfortably on longer journeys. The boot should easily accommodate a family’s luggage for a weekend away. Safety-wise, it boasts six airbags and earned a four-star NCAP safety rating for both adult and child protection.
Out on the road, the Basalt managed to win me over. A turbocharged 1.2-litre engine powers it, and it’s eager to go. Whether pulling away from traffic lights or overtaking slower vehicles on the highway, the Basalt feels lively.
The handling was another pleasant surprise. It feels light on its feet, making it well suited to both city commuting and the occasional road trip.
During my test period, I averaged around 7.5 L/100 km. Most of my driving took place in urban traffic, so you could likely achieve more favourable figures on longer highway journeys.
The silver lining is the price. At around R360,000, the Basalt represents solid value for money, especially when many rivals have crossed the R400,000 threshold. Vehicles such as the Volkswagen Taigo, Kia Sonet and even some derivatives of the Suzuki Fronx command more money depending on specification.
It won’t be perfect for everyone, but in a segment where value is becoming difficult to find, this French newcomer gets a lot more right than wrong. And sometimes, that’s exactly what matters most.
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