Citroen Basalt vs C3 Aircross: similarities, differences explained

The Basalt is Citroen’s fourth product under the C-cubed programme for India, and while it is very closely related to the C3 Aircross SUV, there are a few fundamental differences between both models. The Basalt and the C3 Aircross differ in dimensions, a few features and even on the powertrain front. Let’s take a closer look.

Basalt gets a smaller wheelbase than C3 Aircross

The Basalt measures 4,352mm in length, 1,765mm in width, 1,593mm in height and has a wheelbase of 2,651mm. That makes its wheelbase 20mm shorter than that of C3 Aircross, although overall length has gone up by 29mm, thanks to a redesigned rear end. It is also 31mm narrower and 76mm shorter in height than the C3 Aircross.

What’s interesting is that despite the sloping roofline, the Basalt has greater boot space at 470-litres than the 5-seater versions of the C3 Aircross which have 444-litres of boot space. It, however, rides on smaller 16-inch wheels as opposed to the C3 Aircross’ 17-inch units, and ground clearance is also down by 20mm at 180mm.

Basalt’s new features get carried on to C3 Aircross

All the feature omissions that plagued the C3 Aircross were finally addressed with the Basalt, and the good thing is that these upgrades have also found their way back to the C3 Aircross. So, things like the LED projector headlamps, an auto AC unit, powered mirror adjustments, relocation of the power window buttons to the doors, a front sliding centre armrest and floor mounted rear AC vents have now been made available on the C3 Aircross too.

But there are a few features exclusive to the Basalt which includes a wireless charger, adjustable thigh support for the rear seats and contoured headrests for the rear seats. The Basalt’s dashboard also gets some soft-touch materials while the C3 Aircross additionally gets a roof-mounted AC vent for the 7-seater versions.

Basalt gets an additional powertrain option

Lastly, while the 110hp, 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine is shared between the Basalt and C3 Aircross along with the 6-speed manual and torque converter automatic gearboxes, the Basalt additionally gets the 82hp, naturally aspirated version of the same engine, available only with a manual gearbox. Specs of this engine are certainly not up to class standards, but it has been key in achieving a very aggressive starting price for the Basalt.

Speaking of which, the Basalt’s introductory prices start from Rs 7.99 lakh (ex-showroom), which not only undercuts the entire segment, but also the C3 Aircross by a whopping Rs 2 lakh. The Basalt’s full price list is expected to be revealed later this month which could still undercut its SUV counterpart by a fair margin.  

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