Citroen Basalt: Does it really lack in features?

The Citroen Basalt has been making quite an impression in the compact SUV market since its launch. However, there's been some debate about whether it truly lacks in features compared to its competitors. Let's take a closer look at what the Basalt offers and see if it holds up to scrutiny.

Design and Exterior Features

The Citroen Basalt sports a bold and modern design, drawing inspiration from the C3 Aircross. It features LED headlights, LED DRLs, and a sleek tail light setup. The exterior is complemented by a body cladding that runs from the front to the rear bumper, giving it a rugged yet stylish appearance. The Plus variant even comes with front fog lamps and a silver skid plate for added flair.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the Basalt offers a spacious and comfortable cabin. The white and black theme is both elegant and practical, with decent-quality materials used throughout. The Plus variant features a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensuring seamless connectivity. The seats are well-cushioned, and the rear seats have adjustable headrests, a center armrest with cupholders, and a unique adjustable under-thigh support. However, it does miss out on a sunroof, which some might consider a drawback.

Technology and Connectivity

The Basalt is equipped with a 7-inch digital driver's display and a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It also includes a USB charging port for rear passengers, ensuring everyone stays connected on the go. The Plus variant comes with automatic climate control and rear AC vents, adding to the comfort. However, the naturally aspirated variant only has manual AC and lacks rear vents.

Safety Features

Safety is a top priority for Citroen, and the Basalt doesn't disappoint. It comes with six airbags, ABS with EBD, an electronic stability program (ESP), hill-hold assist, reverse parking sensors, and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). The Basalt has also been crash-tested by Bharat NCAP, where it received a commendable four-star rating for both adult and child occupant protection.

Performance and Powertrain Options

The Basalt offers two engine options: a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 82 PS and a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 110 PS. The former is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, while the latter gets either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, a torque converter unit. The claimed fuel efficiency figures range from 18 to 19.5 kmpl, making it a practical choice for daily commuting.

Practicality and Convenience

The Basalt is designed to be a practical and versatile SUV. It offers a spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom, making it comfortable for both front and rear passengers. The boot space is generous, with 470 liters of capacity, perfect for family trips or weekend getaways. The adjustable rear seat under-thigh support adds to the comfort, ensuring a pleasant ride for all passengers.

Price and Value for Money

The Citroen Basalt is priced competitively, starting from Rs. 7.99 lakh and going up to Rs. 13.83 lakh for the top-end variant. Given its features, build quality, and safety ratings, it offers good value for money. However, some might argue that it lacks certain premium features found in higher-end rivals.

Conclusion: Does It Really Lack in Features?

While the Citroen Basalt may not have every single feature found in its competitors, it still offers a well-rounded package that caters to the needs of most buyers. Its design, comfort, technology, and safety features make it a strong contender in the compact SUV segment. The absence of a sunroof and some other premium features might be a minor drawback for some, but overall, the Basalt holds its own quite well.

In the end, it comes down to personal preferences and priorities. If you value a stylish design, comfortable ride, and robust safety features, the Citroen Basalt is definitely worth considering. It may not have all the bells and whistles, but it certainly doesn't lack in delivering a satisfying ownership experience.

What do you think about the Basalt? Are there any specific features you wish it had?

Should you consider the 2024 Kia Carnival over Luxury SUVs in India?

When it comes to choosing a vehicle that combines luxury, practicality, and advanced features, the 2024 Kia Carnival stands out as a compelling option. A comprehensive test drive showcased several strengths of this full-size multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). It offers a unique blend of attributes that make it a superior choice compared to many luxury SUVs available in the Indian market. Here’s my in-depth look at what makes the 2024 Carnival a standout vehicle.

1. Spaciousness and Comfort

One of the most significant advantages of the Kia Carnival over luxury SUVs is its spacious interior. The Carnival is designed to accommodate up to seven passengers comfortably, with ample legroom and headroom in all three rows. This is a stark contrast to many luxury SUVs, where the third row is often cramped and suitable only for children.

The Carnival’s seats are designed for maximum comfort, with options for premium leather upholstery and ventilated seats. The second-row seats are configured as captain’s chairs, providing a first-class experience for passengers. Additionally, the Carnival allows for easy adjustments of the middle and last row to accommodate passengers or cargo as needed.

2. Advanced Technology

The 2024 Carnival is equipped with state-of-the-art technology that rivals, and in some cases surpasses, what is found in luxury SUVs. The vehicle features dual 12.3-inch displays that serve as the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. These screens provide crisp, clear visuals and are highly responsive to touch.

The infotainment system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing seamless integration with smartphones. Over-the-air updates ensure that the system remains up-to-date with the latest features and improvements. Additionally, the Carnival offers a premium sound system, multiple USB ports, and wireless charging pads, ensuring that all passengers can stay connected and entertained on the go.

3. Luxury Features

The Kia Carnival is packed with luxury features that enhance the overall driving experience. High-quality materials, such as premium leather and soft-touch plastics, are used throughout the cabin, giving it a sophisticated feel. The vehicle also includes features like ambient lighting, a dual-pane sunroof, and tri-zone automatic climate control, which contribute to a luxurious and comfortable environment.

One standout feature is the Carnival’s rear-seat entertainment system, which includes dual screens mounted on the back of the front seats. This system allows passengers to watch movies, play games, or browse the internet, making long journeys more enjoyable. Additionally, the Carnival offers power sliding doors and a hands-free power liftgate, adding to the convenience and luxury of the vehicle.

4. Practicality

The Carnival’s design as an MPV means it excels in practicality. The vehicle offers a variety of storage solutions, including a large center console, door pockets, and under-floor storage compartments. The Carnival’s cargo space is also impressive, with up to 4108 liters of space available when the second and third rows are folded down. This makes it ideal for families, road trips, and transporting large items.

The MPV’s power sliding doors and liftgate can be operated with minimal effort, making it easy to load and unload passengers and cargo. Additionally, the vehicle’s low step-in height and wide-opening doors make it accessible for all passengers, including children and elderly individuals.

5. Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety is a top priority for Kia, and the 2024 Carnival is no exception. The vehicle is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. These features help to prevent accidents and provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.

One notable feature is the Highway Driving Assist 2, which combines adaptive cruise control with lane-centering technology. This system allows the Carnival to maintain a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead while keeping the vehicle centered in its lane. This makes highway driving more relaxed and less stressful, especially on long journeys.

6. Value for Money

With its many luxury features and advanced technology, the 2024 Kia Carnival is priced competitively at Rs.63.9 lakhs (ex-showroom). This makes it an attractive option for those looking for a high-quality vehicle. The Carnival offers excellent value for money, providing a range of features and capabilities that are typically found in more expensive vehicles.

Additionally, Kia’s industry-leading warranty provides added peace of mind for buyers. The Carnival comes with a 3-year / 30,000 Km, a 4-year / 40,000 Km, and a 5-year / 50,000 Km plan. This comprehensive coverage ensures that owners can enjoy their vehicle with confidence, knowing that they are protected against unexpected repairs and issues.

7. Design and Aesthetics

The 2024 Carnival boasts a bold and modern design that sets it apart from traditional minivans and SUVs. Its sleek lines, aggressive front grille, and stylish LED headlights give it a commanding presence on the road. The Carnival’s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with features like roof rails and a rear spoiler adding to its sporty look.

Inside, the Carnival’s cabin is designed with a focus on comfort and convenience. The dashboard layout is intuitive, with all controls easily accessible to the driver. High-quality materials and attention to detail create a premium feel, while the spacious interior ensures that all passengers can travel in comfort.

Conclusion

The 2024 Kia Carnival is a versatile and well-rounded vehicle that offers a compelling alternative to luxury SUVs in India. Its spacious interior, advanced technology, luxury features, and excellent value for money make it an attractive option for families and individuals alike. Whether you prioritize comfort, practicality, or fuel efficiency, the Carnival delivers on all fronts, making it a standout choice in the Indian market.

With its combination of luxury, practicality, and advanced features, the 2024 Kia Carnival proves that you don’t have to compromise when choosing a vehicle. It offers the best of both worlds, providing the comfort and convenience of a minivan with the style and sophistication of a luxury SUV. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, the Kia Carnival is definitely worth considering.

What do you think? Would you consider the Kia Carnival over a luxury SUV?