Citroën Basalt vs C3 Aircross: What Are The Differences

The Citroën Basalt made its world debut in India and though it’s based on the same platform as the C3 Aircross SUV, the body style is different – a Coupe SUV. As the fourth model under Citroën's C-Cubed program tailored for India, the Basalt aims for the Compact SUV space and expects prices to be similar to the C3 Aircross SUV. But there are some key differences between the C3 Aircross SUV and the Basalt Coupe SUV and we have all the information for you. 

Exterior Design

Besides the distinct Coupe SUV style, the exterior sees changes like matte finished body cladding. The front fascia closely resembles the C3 Aircross but with a distinct grille insert finish. Additionally, the Basalt introduces projector headlamps to the C-cubed lineup in India, a feature not available on the C3 Aircross. 

Viewed in profile,  the Basalt gets an angular trim around the wheels, a curved window line, and a sloping roofline. At the rear, the Citroën Basalt has a shorter and more rounded tailgate, 3D-effect tail lights, and a bold two-tone bumper in black and silver. In comparison, the C3 Aircross has a taller rear end with distinctive C-shaped LED lights joined by a black strip. 

Dimensions

The Citroën Basalt is slightly longer than the C3 Aircross, measuring 4323mm in length. In contrast, the C3 Aircross measures 4352mm. Despite its length, the Basalt has a shorter wheelbase of 2651mm - 20mm less than the C3 Aircross. The Basalt also stands taller, with a height of 1669mm. When it comes to boot space, the Basalt offers a versatile configuration. 

In 5-seater mode, the C3 Aircross provides 444 litres, while the Basalt offers more space with 470 litres. Although the C3 Aircross has a maximum capacity of 839 litres with both the third-row seats removed and the second-row seats folded, the Basalt's standard boot space surpasses the C3 Aircross's 5-seater mode capacity.

Interior and Features

Unlike the Citroën C3 Aircross, the Citroën Basalt has an improved climate control panel with digital displays and toggle switches. Additionally, the Citroën Basalt offers a front armrest with storage, whereas the Citroën C3 Aircross has a smaller one. The Basalt also trumps the C3 Aircross with its adjustable thigh support for the rear bench seat, and restyled rear headrests. 

Safety Features

While the Citroën C3 Aircross offers a decent safety package, the Basalt takes it up a notch. Both vehicles feature electronic stability control (ESC) and a rear parking camera, but the Basalt goes further with the addition of 6 airbags as standard. Well, the C3 Aircross too will get this as standard soon, but the Basalt will have the distinction of being the first model to get it. It also comes with a tyre pressure monitoring system. 

The Basalt will soon be launched in the Indian market and like the C3 Aircross, it will be exported to other markets as well. The Basalt of course will be the more stylish offering from the company and we wait to see how the market reacts to the launch of this car.