Pricing scoop! The new Citroën Basalt is set to launch in South Africa later in March 2026, but we already have pricing. Here’s what this coupé-style crossover will cost…
- New coupé-style Basalt to launch in SA soon
- Both derivatives use familiar 1.2T powertrain
- Local pricing to start at just under R355 000
The new Citroën Basalt – imported from the brand’s Stellantis-run Tiruvallur plant in India – is set to launch in South Africa towards the end of March 2026. But we’ve already uncovered local pricing for the French firm’s coupé-style crossover, a model conceived specifically for emerging markets.
From what we understand, the local Basalt line-up will comprise 2 derivatives at launch, set apart purely by their trim levels. According to our information, the Basalt 1.2T Plus 6AT will be priced at R354 900, while the Basalt 1.2T Max 6AT will cost R369 900. That puts it just above the base-spec version of the slightly shorter Tata Curvv, which starts at R349 900 in 1.2T Pure+ guise.
What engine does the Citroën Basalt use?
Both versions of the Basalt employ Citroën’s turbocharged 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine, a powertrain familiar from high-spec versions of the likewise Indian-built C3 and Aircross. As it does in those models, the forced-induction 3-pot generates 81 kW and 205 Nm in the Basalt, peak outputs that are delivered to the front wheels via a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Citroën lists the Basalt’s combined fuel consumption as 6.3 L/100 km, while the fuel-tank capacity comes in at 45 litres. Measuring 4 352 mm long with a wheelbase of 2 651 mm, the Basalt has a listed ground clearance of 180 mm and a claimed luggage capacity of 470 litres (despite the presence of a full-size spare wheel).
Standard features for the Citroën Basalt in SA
So, how do the Plus and Max grades differ? Well, the former includes items like 16-inch alloy wheels (wrapped in 205/60 R16 tyres), LED projector headlamps, LED front foglamps, LED daytime running lights, keyless entry, automatic air conditioning, cruise control, a 10.0-inch touchscreen, a 7.0-inch TFT instrument cluster, 6 airbags, electronic stability control, tyre-pressure monitoring and rear parking sensors.
Meanwhile, the Max specification – which effectively commands a R15 000 premium – furthermore scores a sharkfin antenna (rather than a conventional foldable item), leather trim for the steering wheel, a luggage-compartment light, 2 sound-system tweeters (in addition to the 4 standard speakers), an electrochromic rear-view mirror and a reverse-view camera.
Exterior paint colours set to be offered in South Africa include Polar White, Steel Grey and Garnet Red (each available with an optional black roof), along with Cosmo Blue and Black Pearl. From what we can tell, SA-spec models will feature a black-and-grey colour combination for the cabin, rather than the black-and-tan arrangement offered in India.
As a reminder, the Basalt was unveiled back in August 2024 and was initially expected to arrive in South Africa in the opening half of 2025. Interestingly, this model was subtly updated as the “Basalt X” in India in September 2025.
How much does the Citroën Basalt cost in South Africa?
| DERIVATIVE | PRICE |
| Citroën Basalt 1.2T Plus 6AT | R354 900 |
| Citroën Basalt 1.2T Max 6AT | R369 900 |
The prices above include a 5-year/100 000 km warranty and a 4-year/60 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the New Citroën Basalt
Q: What makes the Citroën Basalt different from the standard C3 or Aircross?
A: The Basalt is a coupé-style crossover, characterised by its sloping rear roofline. While it shares the same Indian-built platform and 1.2-litre turbocharged engine as the higher-spec C3 models, it offers a more “boutique” aesthetic.
Q: What are the main differences between the Plus and Max trim levels?
A: The Max grade commands a R15 000 premium over the Plus and adds several comfort and convenience features. These include a reverse-view camera, an electrochromic rear-view mirror, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, additional sound-system tweeters and a sharkfin antenna instead of the standard foldable version.
Q: Is the Citroën Basalt well-equipped for safety in the South African market?
A: Both derivatives come standard with a solid safety suite, including 6 airbags, electronic stability control (ESC) and tyre-pressure monitoring. You also get LED projector headlamps and rear parking sensors as standard across the range, which is competitive for a vehicle starting at just under R355 000.
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