Citroen Basalt Vision for Indian, South American markets

While Europe has always been where Citroen has its highest volumes, its future success also depends on sales outside the continent. It has set a target of 30% growth in sales outside Europe (by 2025) and India, South-East Asia and South America are high-potential and fast-growing markets that can contribute to this target.

Region-specific model
While Stellantis Malaysia has confirmed Citroen as a mass-market brand with models assembled locally for the domestic and regional market, its focus on the Indian and South American markets goes further with a region-specific model developed just for those two markets.

The new model, a compact SUV coupe, will go on sale later this year alongside the C3 and C3 Aircross. To be called the Basalt (the ‘Vision’ for this preview model will not be used for the production model), it has been developed with the direct involvement of teams in France and from each region, and also benefits from strong local integration.

New silhouette concept
Like the C3 and C3 Aircross, the Basalt brings to market a model with a strong character and a distinctive onboard comfort experience. It also introduces a new silhouette concept in this segment with the coupe-like form that adds fluidity and dynamism, enhanced by bright colours and sharp contrasts.

Powerful and muscular, it has a typical SUV image, with the typical high ground clearance, high bonnet, upright front end, widened wings and protected wheel arches with distinctive geometric shapes.

Sedan comfort, SUV advantages
Citroen’s designers have given the Basalt the comforts of a 5-door sedan, with the advantages of a SUV. For example, the higher ground clearance makes it easier to get in and out of a vehicle.  Combined with protective shields at the front and rear and side guards, there is a feeling of safety and security, giving the driver confidence to tackle difficult conditions.

“Our ambition is to develop a strong and distinctive product offering, with a unique design and ease of use that create value for customers,” said Thierry Koskas, CEO of Citroen. “Developed and produced locally, we are confident that Basalt Vision will appeal to a large number of customers and strengthen our position in major markets.”

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