French automaker Citroën has announced that the long-anticipated Basalt will go on sale by the end of the first quarter of 2026, which is later this month.
Initially designated a C3 badge, the SUV-coupé has joined the Aircross in dropping it altogether.
“Representing a fresh interpretation of the modern family vehicle, the Basalt introduces a distinctive SUV-Coupé offering to the local B-segment,” states Citroën.
The brand says the Basalt is positioned somewhere between a traditional hatchback and an SUV, and was developed for buyers searching for space and presence, as well as efficiency and accessibility.
The Basalt is expected to complete the cycle started with the recently updated C3 and Aircross, as a crucial part of the brand’s global C-Cubed programme.
As such, the latest entry is expected to occupy the flagship slot in Citroën’s local line-up, slotting in above the Aircross.
Updated Aircross prices in South Africa range from R294,500 to R388,900, positioning the model as a budget family SUV offering.
“The Basalt is positioned to appeal to young professionals and growing families seeking a more expressive alternative to conventional offerings, while remaining accessible to own and operate,” said Citroën.
This suggests the badge’s new offering will also be an affordable B-segment model, but this remains to be seen, with details still under wraps until closer to its official launch date.
What to expect
With its introduction drawing nearer, Citroën has revealed slightly more than before, while remaining relatively vague on the model’s exact details.
What is mentioned, though, is that the Basalt features a distinctive SUV-Coupé silhouette, which will be a first for the brand in South Africa, with a two-tone roofline.
Further exterior design elements include a curved build, flowing towards the rear bumper, a set of 16-inch alloy wheels, and a gloss-black finish on the side skirts and wheel arches.
In the front, its design resembles the Aircross, with headlights accentuated by slim Y-shaped LED daytime running lights.
The model is confirmed to also feature increased ground clearance, making it more suited to local driving conditions.
Inside, drivers can expect generous space, with the brand placing focus on rear-seat comfort, as well as integration of Citroën’s Advanced Comfort features.
Other features will include a suite of infotainment and connectivity features and comprehensive safety specifications.
TopAuto previously reported that the Basalt is expected to feature the same powertrain as the Aircross, with a turbocharged option.
Naturally-aspirated models are expected to produce 60kW and 115N, while the turbocharged units should generate 81kW and 205Nm.
Drivers will also be able to choose between a five-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic.
Should its final spec sheet mirror that of the updated Aircross, the Basalt will feature an updated instrument panel and a floating digital instrument cluster with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Driver comforts will include cruise control and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror to reduce glare at night.
Its manual aircon should include rear air vents ensure that back-seat passengers benefit from climate control, while it may very well feature front and rear charging ports.
Safety features and driving aids include six airbags, Isofix child-seat anchors, and an advanced electronic stability system.
Driver assists include hill assist, ABS, tyre pressure monitoring, rear parking sensors, and a reverse camera.
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