Citroën Basalt: The Cheapest Turbo SUV in Brazil

Engine, Performance, and Consumption

Even being the most affordable SUV with a turbo engine, the Citroën Basalt delivers balanced performance.
It uses the already well-known 1.0 Turbo T200 engine from Stellantis, with enough power for urban and highway use.

Turbo engine tested and approved

The mechanical set is the same as that of other models from Fiat, Peugeot, and Citroën.
This engine has already proven its efficiency in several vehicles of the group.

Technical specifications:

• T200 1.0 Turbo Engine
• Power: 130 hp with ethanol / 125 hp with gasoline
• Torque: 20.4 kgfm with both fuels
• CVT transmission with 7-speed simulation

Available driving modes:

• Normal – balance between performance and economy
• Sporty - quicker responses and agile acceleration
• Manual – sequential shift with the lever (without paddle shifters on the steering wheel)

The performance is surprising for an entry-level SUV, with good acceleration and pleasant handling.

Acceleration and consumption in practice

The Citroën Basalt delivers solid figures in both performance and fuel efficiency.
It's not the fastest in its category, but it delivers good results for the car's purpose.

Acceleration data:

• 0 to 100 km/h in 9.7 seconds (ethanol)
• Maximum speed: 199 km/h with ethanol / 197 km/h with gasoline

Average consumption in tests:

• 8.8 km/l with ethanol (city + road)
• 12.5 km/l with gasoline

The fuel consumption is comparable to other Stellantis models with the same engine.
A balance that caters to those seeking economy without sacrificing performance.

Suspension, Steering and Safety

The Citroën Basalt delivers a comfortable ride, despite some limitations.
Its suspension has been adjusted to balance stability and comfort, which is pleasing in urban and highway stretches.

Firm yet comfortable suspension

The suspension setup is not sophisticated, but it works well for daily use.
The car gives a sense of robustness and responds securely in curves and rough terrain.

Suspension characteristics:

• Independent front McPherson type
• Rear with torsion axle
• 16-inch rims with balanced profile tires
• Ground clearance of 18 cm, good for speed bumps and dirt roads
• Internal noise levels may increase on certain types of asphalt.

The set provides stability without compromising the comfort of the family or the rideshare driver.

Steering and driving position

The electric steering makes maneuvers easier, but there are areas that could be improved.
The steering wheel is a good size, but it lacks depth adjustment (only height adjustment).

Points of attention:

• Light steering, but not very communicative
• Feeling of "numbness" at high speeds
• Comfortable seat and height adjustment for the driver's seat
• Steering wheel without distance adjustment may limit the ideal position for some drivers.

Even with these details, it's possible to find a comfortable driving position for long periods.

Safety: the essentials are present

The Basalt covers the basics in safety, but it could offer more.
Some items are missing that are already common in models of the same price range.

Available safety features:

• 4 airbags (2 front and 2 side)
• ABS brakes with EBD
• Traction and stability control
• Isofix for child car seats
• LED daytime running lights
• Absence of blind spot sensors or curtain airbags
• Important buttons (Sport mode, door lock) poorly positioned

The structure is solid, but the safety package is lacking in some areas.

Positive Points of the Citroën Basalt

The Citroën Basalt stands out as one of the most balanced options in its category.

Its great asset lies in the cost-benefit ratio, especially for those seeking savings without sacrificing style.

Highlights that make the Basalt worth it:

• Competitive priceIt is the cheapest automatic SUV with a turbo engine in Brazil.
• Modern designSporty lines with a coupe look that catches the eye.
• Spacious trunk490 liters, ideal for trips, family, or rideshare drivers.
• Efficient engineSatisfactory performance with low consumption.
• Functional multimedia centerLarge, intuitive display with wireless connectivity.
• Adequate ground clearanceIt handles well over bumps and pothole-filled streets.
• Interior comfortGood seats, generous rear space, and a comfortable driving position.
• Pleasant interior design: Even with hard plastics, the finish is well thought out.

The Basalt set appeals in several aspects and delivers more than expected from an entry-level SUV.

Negative Points of the Citroën Basalt

Despite its good cost-benefit, the Citroën Basalt has limitations that deserve attention.
These are details that impact the daily user experience and can influence the purchasing decision.

What could be improved in the Basalt:

• Simple finishHard plastics throughout the interior, with no soft areas on the doors.
• Lack of extra safetyOnly 4 airbags and absence of items such as blind spot sensor.
• Misplaced buttons: Sport mode control, locks, and cruise control are hidden.
• Steering wheel without depth adjustment: Makes it difficult to find the ideal driving position.
• No button startIt uses a flip key, which conveys simplicity.
• Noisy tiresThey make excessive noise depending on the type of asphalt.
• Non-split rear seatsThey reduce versatility when it comes to carrying larger items.
• Unresponsive steeringThere is a lack of precision and feedback to the driver at high speeds.

These are points that, although they do not compromise the car, should be considered by those seeking more sophistication.

Who Is the Citroën Basalt Recommended For?

Not every car is suitable for all types of use.
The Citroën Basalt fits well into specific profiles that seek cost-effectiveness, fuel economy, and interior space.

Profiles that match with Basalt:

• Small families that require ample interior space and trunk capacity
• Rideshare drivers that value economy, comfort, and modern design
• People looking for an affordable SUVwith good performance and turbo engine
• Urban users that tackle speed bumps, pothole-filled streets, and drive in busy centers
• Who is looking for a spacious car but does not require premium features or refined finishes

If you value practicality and performance at a fair price, the Basalt can be a wise choice.

Comparison with Direct Competitors

In the same price range and segment as the Citroën Basalt, there are options such as Fastback, Nivus, and Pulse.
But when analyzing item by item, the Basalt stands out in several important areas.

Citroën Basalt x Fiat Fastback

• PriceCheaper basalt (especially on sale)
• trunk: Fastback wins, with 516 liters against 490.
• DesignBasalt has a more balanced and harmonious appearance.
• Performance: Similarly, both use a 1.0 turbo engine.

Citroën Basalt x VW Nivus

• PriceNivus is much more expensive.
• FinishNivus premium, with more sophistication
• TechnologyBoth offer good multimedia systems.
• trunkBasalt has an advantage in interior space.

Citroën Basalt x Fiat Pulse

• Performance: Balanced, both use the T200 engine.
• Consumption: Practically tied
• Interior spaceBasalt has an advantage
• Price: Pulse is more expensive, even in the initial versions.

Overall, Basalt positions itself as the best choice for those who want turbo engine, good space e affordable price.

Is It Worth Buying the Citroën Basalt?

The Citroën Basalt isn't perfect, but it offers a lot for its price.
If you're looking for an SUV with good performance, a modern look, and an affordable price, it deserves your attention.

Why Basalt is worth it:

• It's the cheapest automatic turbo SUV in Brazil.
• Has striking designample interior space and generous trunk
• Delivery good fuel consumption and balanced performance
• Ideal for those who want a new, beautiful, and functional car without spending too much.

Of course, there are areas for improvement, such as safety and finish.
But within its proposal, the Basalt stands out as a smart and economical option.

Conclusion

O Citroën Basalt is a SUV that surprises with the overall package.
Even though it's an entry-level option, it delivers more than expected in the category.

With a turbo engine, good space, and a modern look, it stands out among competitors.
And the best part: with one of the lowest prices among the Automatic SUVs in Brazil.

For those seeking cost-effectiveness, practicality, and economy, the Basalt is a smart choice.
Especially during promotions that position it as a leader in accessibility.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Citroën Basalt

1. What is the price of the Citroën Basalt in 2025?
In March 2025, the Shine version was priced at a promotional price of R$ 106,990.

2. Is the Citroën Basalt really the cheapest turbo SUV in Brazil?
Yes. Among the automatic SUVs with a turbo engine, the Basalt is the most affordable currently.

3. Is the Citroën Basalt an SUV or a crossover?
It is classified as a crossover, with an SUV look and a coupe-like silhouette.

4. How many liters is the trunk of the Citroën Basalt?
The trunk has a capacity of 490 liters, above the category average.

5. Is the Citroën Basalt suitable for app drivers?
Yes. It offers good interior space, reasonable fuel consumption, and comfort for daily use.

6. Does the Citroën Basalt have a 1.0 turbo engine?
Yes. All versions use the Stellantis T200 1.0 turbo engine.

7. How many driving modes does the Citroën Basalt offer?
There are three modes: Normal, Sport, and Manual (with shifts using the lever).

8. Does the Citroën Basalt have a multimedia center with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay?
Yes. The 10.25” multimedia center has wireless connectivity for both systems.

9. What is the fuel consumption of the Citroën Basalt with gasoline and ethanol?
It does 12.5 km/l with gasoline and 8.8 km/l with ethanol (city/highway average).

10. Does the Citroën Basalt have digital air conditioning?
Yes. The model comes with digital and automatic climate control, even in the Shine version.

11. Does the Citroën Basalt have push-button start?
No. The ignition is done with a traditional flip key.

12. Does the Citroën Basalt have a blind spot sensor?
No. The model does not offer this item, not even as an optional.

13. Does the Citroën Basalt steering wheel have depth adjustment?
No. The adjustment is only for height.

14. How many airbags does the Citroën Basalt offer?
There are 4 airbags: two front and two side.

15. Is the Citroën Basalt comfortable for five people?
It is comfortable for four. The fifth occupant travels with less space.

16. Does the Citroën Basalt have quality interior finish?
The finish is simple, with hard plastics, but well-assembled.

17. Is the suspension of the Citroën Basalt good for dirt roads?
Yes. The height of 18 cm and the suspension setup allow for safe navigation on uneven terrain.

18. Is it worth buying the Citroën Basalt in the Shine version?
Yes, if you are looking for more features and the best value for money in the lineup.

19. Does the Citroën Basalt perform well in acceleration?
Yes. The recoveries are swift, with good response in overtaking.

20. Is the Citroën Basalt better than the VW Nivus or Fiat Fastback?
In terms of price and space, yes. In terms of finish and features, the competitors offer more, but they cost significantly more.