Renowned French automaker Citroën has announced that its previously known C3X coupe-SUV has been officially named Basalt. The new vehicle’s global debut is set to take place on March 27, 2024. The Basalt is positioned to compete with other midsize SUVs on the Indian market, like the expected Tata Curvv.
The positioning of the new Citroën Basalt will be above the brand’s C3 Aircross SUV. The C3 Aircross is a more practical alternative with a conventional design, making the Basalt’s high-riding stance and coupe-like fashion aimed explicitly at rivals like the upcoming Tata Curvv coupe SUV.
The Citroën Basalt boasts a stylish slant-back profile, underscored in the company's teaser shots. The car's design includes a short boot lid and a coupe-like roofline. Just like the Skoda Superb, the Basalt will feature a lift-back-type tailgate. The images released also show an eye-catching tail-lamp design reminiscent of the premium Euro-spec C3 hatchback.
The Basalt will share a handful of features with the C3 Aircross. These include the CMP modular platform, some body panels, and the powertrain. The Basalt's front end will resemble the C3 Aircross, albeit with some extra chrome accents. Ground clearance will be similar to the C3 Aircross, and the car features large alloy wheels, with robust-looking plastic cladding among other design elements.
Compared to the less compelling sales figures of the C3 hatchback and the C3 Aircross, Citroën plans to release the Basalt with more added features— a lesson they learned from the former models. Potential features include electric-folding wing mirrors, cruise control, automatic climate control, wireless charging, LED headlamps, and a push-button start with keyless entry.
Engine-wise, the awaited Citroën Basalt X will likely house a 110hp, 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine under its hood. This is the same power unit that operates in the C3 Aircross and the C3 hatchback. Buyers will also have an option of either a manual or torque converter. While an EV based on the Basalt is on the cards, it will take a while before it hits the market.
While the unveiling of the Basalt on March 27, 2024, will reveal only its exterior design, the subsequent reveals in the following months will showcase the SUV's interiors and feature list. The exact timeline for its launch is yet to be disclosed.
To put things into perspective, the price range of Citroën’s cars stands between ₹7.02 - 14.40 lakh, making their diverse offering a suitable choice for various consumer segments. They also offer models above ₹38.19 lakh for premium segment consumers.
Citroën’s foray into the Indian auto circuit is not new. Previously, their Volkswagen Taigun model competed against the Citroën C3 Aircross in a popular drag race. Besides, an automatic video review of the Citroën C3 Aircross was published a month ago. These events are indicators of Citroën’s consistent presence and active participation in the auto community, positioning them as a competitive brand on the Indian market.
Design Highlights:
Key Features:
Variant Pricing: The Ebony Edition is approximately ₹15,000 more than the standard AX7 and AX7 L variants.
Safety Update:
Rear Seat Belt Reminders: All Mahindra XUV700 variants now come standard with rear seat belt reminders, enhancing passenger safety.
The XUV700 Ebony Limited Edition is now available for bookings, offering customers a unique blend of style and performance.
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the 2025 CLA, introducing both electric and hybrid variants to its lineup. This move signifies a shift from developing separate electric models to integrating diverse powertrains within a single model range.
Electric Variant:
Porsche is working on an all-new SUV that will be available with both petrol and hybrid powertrains, expanding its portfolio beyond its existing electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) offerings. This upcoming model is expected to provide customers with a blend of performance, efficiency, and adaptability to evolving market trends.
New Model Strategy and Market Positioning
Engine Specifications:
New Turbocharged Engine: The foundation of this hybrid system is a newly developed 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, internally designated as the G20E. This engine is engineered to support both plug-in hybrid and mild-hybrid configurations.
Compact Design: Featuring a shorter piston stroke and lightweight construction, the Toyota G20E engine is optimized for hybrid integration without significantly increasing the vehicle's weight.
Performance Expectations:
Power Output: In standard road versions, the G20E engine is anticipated to produce over 400 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque. For motorsport applications, outputs exceeding 600 horsepower are projected.
Motorsport and Production Integration:
Versatile Application: The G20E engine is designed for both competitive motorsport and consumer vehicles, aligning with Toyota's strategy to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions across its performance lineup.
Prototype Testing: The engine has been showcased in the mid-engined GR Yaris M Concept, indicating ongoing development and testing efforts.
Future Outlook:
By integrating hybrid technology into its GR sports cars, Toyota aims to balance high performance with environmental responsibility, ensuring compliance with stringent emission standards in various markets.
As development progresses, more detailed specifications and launch timelines for these hybrid-powered GR models are expected to be announced.
Aston Martin is set to introduce its latest flagship grand tourer, the 2025 Vanquish, to the Indian market on March 22.
This new model succeeds the DBS Superleggera and positions itself as a direct competitor to the Ferrari 12Cilindri.
Performance and Powertrain:
At the heart of the Vanquish lies a formidable 5.2-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine, delivering an impressive 835 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that channels power to the rear wheels, the Vanquish accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a swift 3.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 345 km/h.
Design and Features:
Exterior:
The 2025 Aston Martin Vanquish is anticipated to be priced above ₹6 crore (ex-showroom) in India, excluding optional features. This pricing positions it as a premium offering in the luxury sports car segment.
With its blend of performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology, the Vanquish aims to set new benchmarks in the Indian automotive landscape.
Tesla is advancing its plans to enter the Indian market by submitting homologation applications for its Model 3 and Model Y electric vehicles (EVs). This crucial step ensures that the vehicles comply with India's regulatory standards before their official launch.
Progress Towards Indian Market Entry:
The Indian government is considering reducing import duties on specific EVs from the previous range of 70%–110% to 15%. This reduction aims to encourage foreign manufacturers like Tesla to enter the Indian market. However, to benefit from these concessions, manufacturers are required to commit to domestic production by investing at least $500 million within three years.
Implications for the Indian EV Market:
Tesla's potential entry is poised to invigorate the Indian EV sector, offering consumers advanced electric mobility options. The Model 3 and Model Y are expected to appeal to a broad audience, aligning with India's push towards sustainable transportation solutions.
As Tesla progresses through the homologation and certification stages, further details regarding the official launch dates and vehicle specifications tailored for the Indian market are anticipated.
Design and Dimensions:
Despite the heavy camouflage, the Tata Sierra's distinctive boxy silhouette is reminiscent of the original model. When observed next to the Hyundai Creta, the Sierra's larger dimensions are evident, suggesting a more spacious interior and commanding road presence. The test vehicle was equipped with alloy wheels, indicating a focus on both style and functionality.
Powertrain Options:
The upcoming Tata Sierra is expected to offer both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicle (EV) variants:
ICE Version: Anticipated to feature a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine delivering 168bhp and 280Nm of torque. Additionally, a 2.0-litre diesel engine, currently powering the Harrier and Safari models, may be available, producing 168bhp and 350Nm of torque.
EV Version: Set to utilize Tata's Gen2 EV platform with the acti.ev architecture, the Sierra EV is expected to debut later this year, aligning with Tata's commitment to sustainable mobility.
Market Positioning:
The Tata Sierra aims to blend nostalgic design elements with modern features, targeting consumers seeking a robust and versatile SUV experience. Its availability in both ICE and EV formats reflects Tata Motors' strategy to cater to a diverse customer base in the evolving automotive landscape.
As testing progresses, more details regarding the Tata Sierra's specifications, features, and launch timeline are anticipated, generating excitement among automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers alike.
