Citroën Basalt hits the right comfort notes without breaking the bank

2026-03-27 - 08:50

Realigned from parent company, Stellantis’ premium division to entry-level in 2023, Citroën’s fortunes have dramatically changed over the last three years. Dramatic change in fortunes With product sourcing originating from India instead of Europe, the double chevron now ranks as the best-selling Stellantis marque ahead of sister brands Fiat, Opel and Peugeot. ALSO READ: Long-overdue Citroën Basalt almost ready for South Africa Comprising the C3 and C3 Aircross, Citroën sales last year topped out at 6 500 units, a considerable leap over the 877 from three years before. Although unlikely to please staunch fans given Citroën’s vested reputation as a technological and premium brand instead of one now aimed at developing markets, its turnaround’s still rates as a success given its limited product range. Long awaited arrival Introduced in 2024, the Basalt increases this to three as not only a new Citroën product outright, but an entirely different prospect altogether. Produced alongside the C3 and C3 Aircross at the Tiruvallur plant outside Chennai, the Basalt marks Citroën’s first foray, outside Europe, into the coupe-styled crossover segment. Basalt becomes the brand’s first coupe-styled crossover on local soil. Picture: Charl Bosch A concept first seen on the C5 X in Europe five years ago, the Basalt eschews the station wagon appearance for a fastback almost crossover-type sedan look. The first non-commercial vehicle Citroën to have a proper name instead of a “C” initial since the Ami quadracycle, the Basalt is also a styling tribute to past models, the most prominent being the first generation C4 and C4 Cactus when viewed from the front. Its official launch around the Cradle of Humankind and Hartbeesport this past week came a surprise despite a few pre-conceived thoughts. Price 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 NOW READ: Citroën Basalt’s entry ticket to South Africa approved for 2026