When the updated Citroen Basalt X rolled into our garage, it arrived with a promise: retain the strong fundamentals of the original Basalt while elevating the equipment list to finally match rivals. The previous model was admired for its driving dynamics, space, and build quality—but it lacked features. The new Basalt X aims to fix that.
We tested the 1.2-litre turbo-petrol automatic Max dual-tone variant to see how it performs in real-world conditions. Here’s what we found.
Why You Would Buy It
- Excellent ride comfort
- Spacious, practical cabin
- Distinctive coupe-SUV styling
Why You May Avoid It
- Poor rearward visibility
- Jerky low-speed behaviour
- Noticeable engine noise
Design
At the front, the Basalt X uses a stacked lighting setup—slim LED DRLs on top and square headlamps below—framed by a wide black grille. Red accents on the bumper add a touch of flair without going overboard. The dual-tone roof enhances the sporty character.
The side profile is where the coupe influence shines. The sloping roofline flows neatly into the rear haunch, giving the Basalt X a unified and athletic appearance. The 16-inch dual-tone alloys suit the look, while thick cladding around the wheel arches and doors adds ruggedness.
At the rear, the wide stance, protruding tail-lamps, and squared-off tailgate maintain the SUV’s visual strength. It’s one of the most cohesive coupe-SUV designs in the segment.
Interior and Features
The Basalt X welcomes you with auto-folding mirrors, but traditional door handles and exposed keyholes slightly reduce the premium effect. The cabin itself, however, feels upmarket with its beige-and-black theme, golden accents, textured plastics, and ambient lighting.
Key Interior Highlights
- Clean, uncluttered dashboard
- 7-inch digital driver display
- 10.25-inch touchscreen with smooth performance
- Wireless Android Auto that works flawlessly
- Easy-to-use physical AC toggles
The steering wheel feels good to hold, though it adjusts only for tilt—not reach. Seat comfort is generally good for long journeys, but the seat squab lacks contouring and lumbar support is minimal. Ventilated seats are a great addition, but the fan noise is noticeable because the cabin is otherwise very well insulated.
Rear Seats
The second row offers good knee and legroom for average-height passengers, and the backrest angle is comfortable. However, shoulder room is tight for three adults, the centre tunnel intrudes into the middle passenger’s space, and the middle headrest feels basic.
Boot
The 470-litre boot is easy to use thanks to its clean layout, though the loading lip is high.
Features
- Wireless charger
- Cruise control and speed limiter
- Auto-dimming IRVM
- Citroen CARA voice assistant
- Six airbags, ESP, hill-hold, ISOFIX
- Optional 360-degree camera
- Four-star BNCAP rating
There’s no sunroof yet.
Performance
The turbo-petrol automatic uses a 1.2-litre three-cylinder motor producing 108bhp and 205Nm. It is surprisingly energetic, with eager acceleration and quick responses.
Strengths
- Lively low- and mid-range
- Clean power delivery
- Effortless overtaking
- Smooth upshifts
Weaknesses
- Engine noise is intrusive at high revs
- Jerky behaviour at low speeds due to gearing
- Downshifts can feel unsmooth
- Idle start/stop engages too abruptly
Visibility is good around the front and sides, but the small, raked rear windscreen and thick C-pillars restrict rearward view significantly.
Ride and Handling
Citroen’s ride quality continues to be a major highlight. The Basalt X feels composed and absorbs uneven roads with ease. It remains stable at high speeds, and while it does lean in corners, it retains confidence through bends.
The steering is light and easy in the city, though it feels vague around the centre and doesn’t self-centre consistently at small angles. Braking performance is strong, with predictable feel.
Verdict
The Citroen Basalt X isn’t without flaws—engine noise, jerky low-speed behaviour, restricted rear visibility, and some ergonomic quirks stand out. But its strengths are undeniable:
- Plush ride quality
- Strong highway performance
- Spacious and well-designed cabin
- Good safety kit
- Distinct coupe styling that sets it apart
If you want something different from the usual Creta/Seltos crowd and value comfort and character over exhaustive features, the Basalt X makes a compelling case. It’s charming, composed, and surprisingly enjoyable once you spend time with it.