Citroën Basalt: The Cheapest Turbo SUV in Brazil

Engine, Performance and Consumption

Even though it is 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.

Tested and approved turbo engine

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

Technical data:

• T200 1.0 Turbo Engine
• Power Rating: 130 hp with ethanol / 125 hp with gasoline
• Torque: 20,4 kgfm with both fuels
• CVT gearbox with 7 gear simulation

Available driving modes:

• Normal – balance between performance and economy
• Sportive – faster responses and agile acceleration
• Manual – sequential change via the lever (no paddles on the steering wheel)

The performance is surprising for an entry-level SUV, with good pick-up and pleasant drivability.

Acceleration and consumption in practice

The Citroën Basalt delivers solid figures in both performance and consumption.
It is not the fastest in the category, but it offers 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

Consumption is compatible with other Stellantis models with the same engine.
A balance that meets the needs of those looking for savings without sacrificing performance.

Suspension, Steering and Safety

The Citroën Basalt offers a comfortable drive, even with some limitations.
Its suspension has been adjusted to balance stability and smoothness, which is pleasing on urban and highway stretches.

Firm but comfortable suspension

The suspension setup isn't fancy, but it works well in everyday life.
The car gives a feeling of robustness and responds safely on curves and irregularities.

Suspension features:

• Independent front McPherson type
• Rear with torsion axle
• 16-inch wheels with balanced profile tires
• Ground height 18 cm, good for speed bumps and dirt sections
• Interior noise levels may increase on certain types of asphalt

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

Direction and driving position

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

Attention points:

• Light but uncommunicative steering
• Sensation of “anesthesia” at high speeds
• Comfortable seat and height adjustment on the driver's seat
• Steering wheel without distance adjustment may limit ideal position for some drivers

Even with these details, it is possible to find a comfortable position to drive for long periods.

Security: the essentials are present

Basalt covers the basics in security, but could offer more.
It is missing some items that are already common in models in the same price range.

Available security items:

• 4 airbags (2 front and 2 side)
• ABS brakes with EBD
• Traction and stability control
• Isofix for child 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 leaves something to be desired in some areas.

Positive Points of the Citroën Basalt

The Citroën Basalt presents itself as one of the most balanced options in the category.

Its greatest asset is its cost-benefit, especially for those looking to save money without sacrificing style.

Highlights that make Basalt worth it:

• Competitive price: It is the cheapest automatic SUV with a turbo engine in Brazil.
• Modern design: Sporty lines with a coupé look that draws attention.
• Spacious trunk: 490 liters, ideal for travel, family or app drivers.
• efficient engine: Satisfactory performance with low consumption.
• Functional multimedia center: Large, intuitive screen with wireless connection.
• Adequate ground clearance: It goes over speed bumps and potholed streets well.
• Internal comfort: Good seats, generous rear space and comfortable driving position.
• Pleasant interior appearance: Even with hard plastics, the finish is well thought out.

The Basalt package is pleasing in several aspects and delivers more than what is expected from an entry-level SUV.

Negative Points of the Citroën Basalt

Despite its good value for money, the Citroën Basalt has limitations that deserve attention.
These are details that impact the day-to-day user experience and can influence the purchasing decision.

What can be improved in Basalt:

• Simple finish: Hard plastics throughout the interior, no soft areas on the doors.
• Lack of extra security: Only 4 airbags and lack of items such as blind spot sensor.
• Badly positioned buttons: Sport mode control, locks and cruise control are hidden.
• Steering wheel without depth adjustment: It makes it difficult to find the ideal driving position.
• No push button start: Uses a pocket knife, which conveys simplicity.
• Noisy tires: They make excessive noise depending on the type of asphalt.
• Rear seats not split: Reduces versatility when carrying larger objects.
• Uncommunicative management: Lacks 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 looking for more sophistication.

Who is the Citroën Basalt recommended for?

Not every car is suitable for every type of use.
The Citroën Basalt fits well into specific profiles looking for value for money, economy and interior space.

Profiles that match Basalt:

• Small families who need interior space and a large trunk
• Application drivers that value economy, comfort and a modern look
• People who want an affordable SUV, with good performance and turbo engine
• Urban users who face speed bumps, potholed streets and drive in busy centers
• Those looking for a spacious car, but do not require premium items or refined finishes

If you value practicality and performance at a fair price, Basalt could be a good choice.

Comparison with Direct Competitors

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

Citroën Basalt x Fiat Fastback

• Price: Cheaper Basalt (especially on sale)
• Trunk: Fastback wins, with 516 liters against 490
• Design: Basalt has a more balanced and harmonious appearance
• Performance: Similar, both use 1.0 turbo engine

Citroën Basalt x VW Nivus

• Price: Nivus is much more expensive
• Finishing: Superior Nivus, with more sophistication
• Tech: Both offer good multimedia center
• Trunk: Basalt has an advantage in interior space

Citroën Basalt x Fiat Pulse

• Performance: Balanced, both use the T200 engine
• Consumption: Practically tied
• Internal space: Basalt takes advantage
• Price: Pulse is more expensive, even in early versions

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

Is the Citroën Basalt Worth Buying?

The Citroën Basalt isn't perfect, but it delivers a lot for what it costs.
If you are looking for an SUV with good performance, modern looks and an affordable price, this one deserves your attention.

Why Basalt is worth it:

• It's the cheapest turbo automatic SUV in Brazil
• Has striking design, spacious interior and generous trunk
• Delivery good consumption and balanced performance
• Ideal for those who want a new, beautiful and functional car, without spending a lot

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

Conclusion

O Citroën Basalt is a SUV which surprises with the work as a whole.
Even though it is 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 its competitors.
And the best part: with one of the lowest prices among Automatic SUVs of Brazil.

For those looking for value for money, practicality and savings, Basalt is the right choice.
Especially during promotions that position you as a leader in accessibility.

Frequently Asked Questions about Citroën Basalt

1. What is the value of the Citroën Basalt in 2025?
In March 2025, the Shine version had a promotional price of R$106.990.

2. Is the Citroën Basalt really the cheapest turbo SUV in Brazil?
Yes. Among turbocharged automatic SUVs, 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 coupé trim.

4. How many liters does the trunk of the Citroën Basalt have?
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 consumption and comfort for everyday 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 gear changes via 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 Citroën Basalt's consumption with gasoline and ethanol?
It does 12,5 km/l with gasoline and 8,8 km/l with ethanol (average city/highway).

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

11. Does the Citroën Basalt have push-button start?
No. It is started with a traditional pocket knife 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 a quality interior finish?
The finish is simple, with hard plastics, but well assembled.

17. Is the Citroën Basalt's suspension good for dirt roads?
Yes. The height of 18 cm and the suspension setup allow you to safely tackle uneven terrain.

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

19. Does the Citroën Basalt perform well in restarts?
Yes. The pick-ups are agile, with a good response when 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, competitors offer more, but cost much more.