When you can buy the new Citroen C3 Basalt in South Africa

Citroen is continuing its product offensive in South Africa with the new C3 Basalt, which will arrive within the next 12 months.

A representative from Stellantis South Africa confirmed to TopAuto that the crossover “is on the cards” to arrive sometime within the first half of 2025.

What to expect

The new C3 Basalt is the latest product to emerge from Citroen’s business strategy to reinvent itself as an entry-level brand in South Africa.

Sourced from India, the Basalt is a crossover coupe that will complement the brand’s existing line-up of C3-badged models as an option with more visual flair.

Naturally, it uses the same design language as its brethren, as its front end is nearly identical to the C3 Aircross with a set of slim Y-shaped LED daytime running lights, giving it a distinct front profile.

Of course, the coupe’s roofline means the back end is much sleeker with a set of large taillights and a prominent rear bumper that helps to sell the sportier body style.

Other visual accoutrements that have been showcased include a two-tone roof, dark alloy wheels, and black finishes for the bumpers, wheel arch mouldings, and side sills.

Unfortunately, Citroen has yet to provide any official images of the interior nor a full breakdown of its specifications, but we can look at its other vehicles to get a sense of what’s in store.

Starting with the engine, the safe bet would be the 1.2-litre, turbocharged petrol unit found in the Aircross, which produces a total of 81kW and 205Nm.

This drivetrain is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission as standard.

It’s also worth noting that the Aircross is getting a cheaper 1.2-litre, naturally-aspirated block later this year, which is sourced from the base C3.

This powerplant generates 61kW and 115Nm, and connects to a five-speed manual box.

Given that coupe models tend to be more exclusive than their crossover siblings, it will be interesting to see whether the more accessible powertrain will be featured on the Basalt.

As for equipment, buyers can expect the Basalt to bring items like a leather multifunction steering wheel, a digital instrument cluster, a 10-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six speakers, manual air conditioning, rear parking sensors, and a rearview camera.