The Tata Curvv-rival becomes the first coupe SUV in India at this price range.
The Citroen Basalt has been launched in India at an attractive introductory price of Rs 7.99 lakh, ex-showroom. It bagged the title of being the first coupe SUV in the mass market segment in our country. The bookings are underway with a token amount of Rs 11,001 at La Maison Citroen showrooms across the nation or online. In fact, its rival, the Tata Curvv, was just launched 5 days after the Basalt. However, the former is available in just electric guise at the moment. The Curvv petrol and diesel will be launched on September 2. Still, let us check out how well the ICE variants of these two compare since the Basalt won’t offer an electric or diesel mill.
Citroen Basalt Launched
Note that these introductory prices are valid on deliveries till October 31, 2024. The deliveries commence in September 2024. In comparison, I expect the prices of the Tata Curvv to start in the vicinity of Rs 10 lakh. Therefore, the French carmaker will have a distinct edge in this regard. That could turn out to be a crucial factor in the price-sensitive Indian market.
| Price Comparison | Citroen Basalt | Tata Curvv |
| Starting Price | Rs 7.99 lakh | Rs 10 lakh (exp.) |
Citroen Basalt vs Tata Curvv – Specs Comparison
The Citroen Basalt comes with the same engine options as the C3 Aircross. This includes a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine which makes 82 PS and 115 Nm and a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol mill that churns out a decent 110 PS and 190 Nm (205 Nm w/ AT) of peak power and torque, respectively. The transmission duties are carried out by either a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox. It uses the heavily localized CMP architecture which also underpins the C3, e-C3 and C3 Aircross.
On the other hand, the Tata Curvv will offer 3 powertrains in the ICE guise – a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine generating 110 PS and 170 Nm. a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo diesel mill which belts out 115 PS and 260 Nm or a 1.2-litre 3-cylinder GDi turbo petrol mill which outputs a decent 125 hp and 225 Nm (250 Nm with instant torque boost in short bursts) of peak power and torque. There are two transmission options available with these engines – either a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed DCT automatic. Hence, buyers will have a wide choice to select what suits their needs precisely.
| Specs | Tata CURVV | Citroen Basalt |
| Engine | 1.2L (P) / 1.5L (D) / 1.2L (Turbo P) | 1.2L (P) / 1.2L (Turbo P) |
| Power | 110 hp / 115 hp / 125 hp | 82 PS / 110 PS |
| Torque | 170 Nm / 260 Nm / 225 Nm | 115 Nm / 190 Nm (205 Nm w/ AT) |
| Transmission | 6MT / 7DCT | 5MT / 6MT / 6AT |
Citroen Basalt vs Tata Curvv – Features and Safety Comparison
The features list on both these coupe SUVs is rather extensive. Being in the mid-size SUV segment where the ultimate rival is the feature-packed Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, it becomes necessary to equip these with the latest tech, connectivity and convenience amenities. For starters, the Citroen Basalt’s top highlights are:
- 10.25-inch Touchscreen Infotainment
- 7-inch Digital Instrument Cluster
- 15-watt Wireless Smartphone Charger
- Toggle Switches For HVAC
- Front Armrest with Storage Space
- Adjustable Thigh Support for the Rear Passengers
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 3 USB Ports
- Automatic Climate Control
- 6 Airbags
- Electronic Stability Program
- Hill-Hold Assist
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
- ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts
Similarly, the Tata Curvv is loaded with the latest functionalities to the brim. The main attractions include:
- Arcade.ev App Suite with 20+ Apps
- 9-speaker JBL Sound System
- What2words Navigation System
- Alexa Voice Commands with Car-to-Home Functionality
- Electrochromatic Auto Dimming IRVM
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 360-degree Camera
- 4-spoke Smart Digital Steering Wheel
- Paddle Shifters
- Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold Function
- Unique Light Animations
- Multiple Voice Assistants in 6 Languages
- 8-way Powered Driver Seat
- Ventilated Front Seats
- Leatherette Seats
- Wireless Charging
- 18-inch Alloy Wheels with Aero Inserts
- Gesture-Controlled Powered Tailgate
- 500-litre Boot Space and a Frunk
- Multi-mode Regen Braking
- Voice-Assisted Panoramic Sunroof with Mood Lighting
- 2-step Reclining Rear Seat
- Level 2 ADAS
- 6 Airbags
Our View
These two coupe SUVs are extremely compelling in their own regard. On the one hand, we have the Citroen Basalt which offers tons of decent modern amenities at an affordable price range. I believe the main attraction of the French SUV will be its pricing and value-for-money proposition. Hence, if you are on a tight budget, going for the Citroen Basalt might suit your needs better. On the other hand, if you are fascinated by the latest tech and gadgets and gizmos, the Tata Curvv should be on your radar. I can’t infer anything until we know the pricing of the Curvv. In essence, both these will have their strengths and weaknesses.
Also Read: Tata CURVV vs Tata Harrier Comparison – What All’s Different?
