Citroën is continuing its development in India by focusing on compact and affordable models. As part of this dynamic, last August the brand launched the Basalt, its first SUV coupé, a body style that is still rare in the affordable segment. Having won several awards since its launch, the Basalt has just added another trophy to its list of achievements by winning the "Design of the Year" award from Top Gear India.
Recognition for the Basalt's bold design.
Designed to make an impression, the Citroën Basalt stands out from other compact SUVs with its bold design. Its styling has been praised by Top Gear India, which awarded it the "Design of the Year" award. This award confirms Citroën's strategy of focusing on a unique approach that combines modernity, comfort and original style.
Shishir Mishra, Citroën Brand Director for India, expressed his satisfaction with this new award: "The marathon of victories continues for the most awarded SUV-Coupé of the year: the Citroën Basalt has done it again! It has won the Top Gear 'Design of the Year' award! We are incredibly happy to be recognised for what we do best: making cars for everyone, but not like everyone else!
With this new trophy, Citroën confirms its desire to offer distinctive models that stand out from the often more conventional competition.
Sales down despite positive reception.
In spite of these distinctions, the Citroën Basalt is struggling to establish itself on the Indian market. When it was launched, the SUV-coupé generated a lot of interest and became the best-selling Citroën in India during the months of August and September 2024. However, this momentum seems to be running out of steam, as the figures for January 2025 show, with only 61 units registered.
This decline in sales is part of a wider context in which Citroën is struggling to establish itself against well-established brands such as Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai or Tata Motors. The Basalt, although more accomplished than the C3 and C3 Aircross with which it shares the STLA Smart platform, does not yet seem able to reverse the trend.
However, winning the Design of the Year award could bring it back into the limelight and attract new customers.
The Citroën Basalt ticks many boxes to succeed on the Indian market: distinctive design, renowned comfort and affordable price. But to win over more consumers, the brand will have to adjust its strategy. As India is a highly competitive market, Citroën may have to rethink its distribution network, marketing strategy or commercial offers if it wants to see a real boost in sales. The question remains whether design recognition will be enough to revive the Basalt's career.
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