Citroen Basalt Vs C3 Aircross - Key Difference

Citroen is all set to introduce the Basalt Coupe-SUV in the Indian market. It will be the fourth product in the brand's C-Cubed programme. The new SUV Coupe is based on the same modular CMP platform that underpins the C3, eC3 and the C3 Aircross. In terms of dimensions, the Basalt is similar to the C3 Aircross.

Citroen has not revealed the exact dimensions of the Basalt; however, it will measure around 4.3 meters in length. The new Coupe SUV will be positioned above the C3 Aircross and will come as a premium offering. In this article, we talk about the similarities & key differences between the C3 Aircross and Basalt SUV Coupe.

Citroen Basalt Vs C3 Aircross Design

The front design of the Basalt and C3 Aircross appears largely identical; however, the former gets some updates. The SUV Coupe has projector headlamps with a smoked-out effect, while the C3 Aircross gets halogens. Citroen is likely to add this feature in the SUV in near future. The grille has different inserts to keep things fresh. Both models get two-part front grille, but Basalt has body-colour finish between the Citroen's logo and the upper grille. On the other hand, the C3 Aircross has blacked-out finish between the lower and upper grille.

Till the front door, both models look largely identical. The major difference comes post the front door. The C3 Aircross is available in both 5 and 7-seat layout, and features amore MPV-like flat roofline and silhouette.  It has bigger glasshouse areas, while the cladding at the bottom gives it a rugged look.

The Basalt has a more prominent profile, featuring a sloping roofline and a differently styled glass house. It has a more striking shoulder line that merges nicely with the new stubby rear end. It has a more squared-out wheel arches with gloss finish for cladding. The SUV Coupe has less body cladding compared to the C3 Aircross. The C-pillar design is completely different from the SUV-sibling. Both models get differently styled alloy wheels.

Both models look completely different from the rear profile. The sloping roofline of the Basalt is the major difference between, as it has a more notchback-like styling. The SUV Coupe has a short and stubby rear profile with an integrated spoiler on the tailgate and strong creases and cuts on the tailgate. The tail-lamps are larger and come with new LED elements.

The C3 Aircross comes with a more upright tailgate with a wraparound rear windscreen, and smaller rear quarter windows. The wraparound tail-lights are connected by a black trim, while the dual-tone lower bumper looks similar to the Basalt.

Citroen Basalt Vs C3 Aircross Interior

The major change will come inside the cabin, as the Basalt will be the first Citroen's C-Cubed model to get a new & modern interior. It will have new dual digital displays - for infotainment and instrument console. The plastic quality is expected to be improved, while the seat upholstery will be new. The Basalt will also come with more features that are missing in the C3 Aircross.

It will have tyre pressure monitoring system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, keyless entry, cruise control, push start/stop, digital driver's display and tilt & telescopic adjustable steering wheel. The top-sec model could also offer up to 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, Hill-hold assist, traction control, ESP and others as safety features.

What's Under The Hood?

The Basalt will share the underpinnings with the C3 Aircross. It will be powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine that produces 109bhp of power and 190Nm of torque. Transmission choices are likely to include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed torque convertor automatic. 

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