The cheapest coupe SUV on the market got a new version, based on the top-of-the-line option, which can cost less than R$ 120 thousand, straight from the factory
The year 2025 was marked by the consolidation of the entry-level SUV segment, especially with the sweeping debut of the Volkswagen Tera. But the niche has been on the market for a long time and one of the competitors is the Citroën Basalt, which won the Dark Edition version.
The Citroën Basalt Dark Edition is an aesthetic variation of the Basalt, a coupe SUV positioned in the entry-level segment of the Brazilian market. The version comes as a direct response to the increase in competition after the arrival of models such as Volkswagen Tera and Renault Kardian, betting on aggressive pricing and a closed package of equipment to attract consumers looking for a compact SUV with a differentiated look.
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With an announced promotional price of R$ 117 thousand, valid for direct purchase from factory stock, the Basalt Dark Edition is below the segment average. In traditional retail, the value rises to around R$ 128 thousand, which significantly changes its cost-benefit ratio.
Basalt operates in one of the most disputed segments in Brazil: entry-level compact SUVs. Its main direct competitors are:
Citroën’s strategy is clear: to offer a complete package of content in a single version, while rivals usually require migration to intermediate or higher versions to achieve a similar level of equipment.
From a technical and equipment point of view, the Basalt Dark Edition does not present changes compared to the previous top-of-the-line version. The differential is concentrated in the look:
The price increase compared to the old top version is approximately R$ 1.000, reinforcing the aesthetic character of the edition.
Inside, the main functional change is in the relocation of the electric window controls to the front doors, correcting a solution criticized in other models of the brand. This change also appears in the Citroën Aircross, but not in the C3.
Even though it is an entry-level SUV, the Basalt Dark Edition offers a competitive set of equipment:
The focus is on comfort and connectivity, not driving assistance. The model does not offer advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), being restricted to conventional driving.
In safety, the Basalt brings:
Although it meets legal requirements, it lags behind some competitors that already offer six airbags, such as Volkswagen Tera and Renault Kardian. The Fiat Pulse, on the other hand, also maintains four airbags, which puts the Basalt in an intermediate position within the segment.
The Citroën Basalt Dark Edition is equipped with the T200 engine:
This is the same set used in Fiat models such as Pulse, Fastback and Strada Turbo, developed by Fiat engineering within the Stellantis group. This reduces the historical fear of part of the public in relation to Citroën’s mechanics.
In practice, performance is one of the strengths of the model. Torque appears at low revs, ensuring good retakes, safe overtaking and consistent performance even with the vehicle loaded. In absolute numbers, the Basalt surpasses direct competitors in power, as Kardian delivers 125 hp and the Tera, 116 hp.
One of the main differentials of Basalt is in space. The model offers:
The cargo volume approaches that of compact sedans, surpassing direct rivals and reinforcing the family appeal of the coupe SUV.
The Citroën Basalt Dark Edition makes more sense when purchased at the promotional price of R$ 117 thousand. In this scenario, it delivers:
When compared to the traditional list price, the advantage decreases, approaching intermediate versions of competitors. Still, Basalt stands out for offering everything in a single version, without the need for optional packages.
The Citroën Basalt Dark Edition is a competitive option in the entry-level compact SUV segment, especially for those who prioritize space, performance and price. It is not the most technological model in active safety, but it makes up for it with a consolidated mechanical set, a good level of comfort and one of the largest trunks in the category.
Within the current market scenario, it is a rational alternative for those looking for an affordable and functional coupe SUV, as long as the promotional condition is maintained.
