The South African compact SUV market has become a magnet for manufacturers seeking to attract
\nvalue-conscious buyers, and the 2026 Citro\u00ebn Basalt enters the fray with a distinctly different approach.
\nInstead of following the conventional SUV formula, the French brand has introduced a coupe-style
\ncrossover that combines striking design, practicality and affordability.
\nAt first glance, the Basalt certainly stands out. Its sloping roofline, sculpted body panels and raised ride
\nheight give it the appearance of a far more expensive vehicle. While most competitors opt for
\nconservative styling, Citro\u00ebn has chosen to inject a sense of individuality into the segment. The result is a
\ncrossover that looks modern and stylish without being overly aggressive.
\nInterior
\nThe Basalt continues its focus on simplicity and practicality. The dashboard layout is clean and
\nuncluttered, with a centrally mounted touchscreen infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and
\nAndroid Auto. Material quality is respectable for the price point, although there are hard plastics
\nthroughout the cabin. Fortunately, the fit and finish are solid and the interior feels robust enough to cope
\nwith daily family duties.
\nOne of the Basalt’s biggest strengths is cabin space. Despite its coupe-inspired profile, rear-seat
\naccommodation is impressive, with generous legroom and headroom for adult passengers. The boot is
\nanother highlight, offering ample luggage capacity for family holidays, shopping trips or airport runs. For
\nSouth African families looking for practicality without stepping into a larger and more expensive SUV, the
\nBasalt makes a compelling case.
\nEngine & Performance
\nUnder the bonnet, the Basalt is powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine
\nproducing around 81kW and 205Nm. The engine is paired with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a
\nsix-speed automatic transmission, depending on specification. Performance is adequate rather than
\nexciting, but the turbocharged motor delivers sufficient low-end torque for urban driving and comfortable
\nhighway cruising.
\nThe suspension setup deserves special mention. Citro\u00ebn has long been associated with ride comfort,
\nand the Basalt remains faithful to that heritage. It absorbs road imperfections impressively well and offers
\na supple ride that should appeal to South African motorists who regularly encounter uneven road
\nsurfaces and potholes.
\nSafety & Technology
\nThe Basalt comes equipped with essentials such as multiple airbags, electronic stability control, hill-start
\nassist and rear parking sensors. Higher-specification models are expected to add features such as a
\nreversing camera and automatic climate control. While it may not offer the extensive driver-assistance
\ntechnologies found in some Chinese rivals, it covers the basics well.
\nVerdict
\nThe 2026 Citro\u00ebn Basalt is not the fastest, most luxurious or most technologically advanced compact
\ncrossover on the market. However, it succeeds in offering something increasingly rare: character. Stylish,
\ncomfortable and practical, the Basalt provides a refreshing alternative for buyers seeking an affordable
\nfamily crossover with a touch of French personality.
\nPricing
\nBasalt Plus 1.2 Turbo 6MT R349,900
\nBasalt Max 1.2 Turbo 6AT R379,900
\nThe Basalt is sold with a competitive after-sales package that includes a 5-year\/100,000km warranty; a
\n4-year\/60,000km service plan and a 5-year roadside assistance.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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