Citroen India has launched a major product lineup realignment across its main offerings: the Basalt X coupe-SUV, the Aircross X mid-size SUV, and the all-electric eC3 X crossover. Rather than executing standard cosmetic facelifts, the French automaker has decoupled engine choices from traditional trim hierarchies.
By bringing high-performance turbocharged powertrains to entry-level trims and introducing naturally aspirated options to top-spec grades, Citroen aims to broaden market accessibility.Simultaneously, software and calibration efficiency improvements give the electric eC3 X Extended a revised certified driving range of 330 km.
Powertrain Restructuring: Turbo Performance Meets Entry-Level Trims
Previously, Indian car buyers seeking Citroen’s 1.2-litre Gen-3 PureTech turbocharged petrol engine were forced to skip entry-level trims and step into higher-tier configurations. Under the new strategy, Citroen has democratized performance by introducing the YOU Turbo variant on the Basalt X and the YOU Turbo Comfort Edition on the Aircross X.
These new base turbo variants deliver an output of 108 PS and up to 205 Nm of torque. This configuration allows budget-conscious buyers to prioritize engine torque and driving dynamics over non-essential convenience features.
| Model Variant | Powertrain Setup | Transmission Options | Introductory Ex-Showroom Price | Key Target Audience |
| Basalt X YOU Turbo | 1.2L Turbo Petrol (108 PS / 190-205 Nm) | 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed AT | ₹9,99,000 | Performance enthusiasts seeking maximum torque under ₹10 lakh |
| Aircross X YOU Turbo Comfort | 1.2L Turbo Petrol (108 PS / 190-205 Nm) | 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed AT | ₹10,69,000 | Families needing strong highway pulling power and crossover space |
| Basalt X MAX NA | 1.2L Naturally Aspirated Petrol / CNG | 5-Speed Manual | ₹11,34,000 | Feature-focused urban drivers prioritizing fuel economy |
| Aircross X MAX NA | 1.2L Naturally Aspirated Petrol / CNG | 5-Speed Manual | ₹11,62,000 | Buyers wanting top-tier equipment and lower maintenance costs |
Naturally Aspirated Engines Added to Top-Tier MAX Trims
To cater to drivers who prefer features like larger touchscreen infotainment displays, leatherette upholstery, and advanced connectivity without paying a premium for a turbo-petrol motor, Citroen has added MAX NA variants.
- Lower Cost of Entry for Top Trims:The Basalt X MAX NA starts at ₹11.34 lakh, significantly undercutting the existing Basalt X MAX Turbo range that previously started at ₹12.62 lakh.
- CNG Compatibility:The 1.2-litre naturally aspirated mill (82 PS / 115 Nm) in these MAX trims is offered with factory-fitted dual-cylinder CNG technology, targeting long-distance commuters looking for low running costs.
- Aircross X Realignment:The Aircross X MAX NA comes in at ₹11.62 lakh, compared to the ₹12.97 lakh starting point of the existing MAX Turbo lineup.
Detailed Specification Matrix: Basalt X & Aircross X
| Technical Attribute | 1.2L PureTech Naturally Aspirated (NA) | 1.2L PureTech Turbocharged Petrol |
| Engine Displacement | 1,199 cc (3-Cylinder) | 1,199 cc (3-Cylinder Turbo) |
| Maximum Power Output | 82 PS (81 bhp) @ 5,750 RPM | 108 PS (107 bhp) @ 5,500 RPM |
| Peak Torque Output | 115 Nm @ 3,750 RPM | 190 Nm (Manual) / 205 Nm (Automatic) |
| Gearbox Options | 5-Speed Manual | 6-Speed Manual / 6-Speed Torque Converter AT |
| Fuel Types Supported | Petrol / Dual-Cylinder Factory CNG | Petrol (E20 Compliant) |
| Front Suspension Setup | MacPherson Strut with Coil Spring | MacPherson Strut with Progressive Hydraulic Cushions |
| Rear Suspension Setup | Twist Beam with Coil Spring | Twist Beam with Progressive Hydraulic Cushions |
Citroen eC3 X Extended: 330 km Certified Range Upgrade
On the electric vehicle front, Citroen has introduced the updated eC3 X Extended.Certified under the Modified Indian Driving Cycle (MIDC-I/II), the electric crossover’s official range increases from 325 km to 330 km.
Efficiency Over Battery Size
Citroen achieved this 5 km range increase without expanding the battery physical footprint.The eC3 X Extended retains its 29.2 kWh LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery pack. The added range stems from refined regenerative braking algorithms, updated battery management system (BMS) firmware, and reduced parasitic electrical drag.
| Performance Metric | eC3 X Extended Official Specs |
| Battery Pack Capacity | 29.2 kWh LFP Chemistry |
| MIDC Certified Driving Range | 330 km (Up from 325 km) |
| Electric Motor Output | 57 PS (56.22 bhp) / 143 Nm Instant Torque |
| Acceleration (0–60 km/h) | 6.8 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 107 km/h (Electronically Governed) |
| DC Fast Charging (10% to 80%) | ~57 Minutes (via 30 kW CCS2 Charger) |
| AC Home Charging (10% to 100%) | ~10.5 Hours (via standard 3.3 kW outlet) |
Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) Framework Explained
To lower the upfront purchase barrier for EV adoption, Citroen has extended its Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) model to the eC3 X Extended. Under this financing structure, the customer buys the vehicle body without paying the full upfront price of the lithium-ion battery pack. The battery is instead paid for via a usage-based kilometer rental fee through partner financial institutions.
- BaaS Starting Ex-Showroom Price:₹6,99,000
- Battery Rental Fee:₹2.26 per kilometer traveled
- Standard Outright Purchase Price: ₹9.45 lakh to ₹10.79 lakh (Ex-Showroom)
This approach brings the initial sticker price of an electric crossover down to the level of traditional petrol hatchbacks, appealing directly to high-mileage urban commuters and fleet operators.
Festive Purchase Incentives and Financial Schemes
Alongside product updates, Citroen India has rolled out flexible long-tenure finance options to support the rollout:
- Long-Term Financing:Flexible tenure loans extending up to 7 years (84 months).
- Aircross X Festive EMI Structure:Step-up EMI plans starting from ₹10,555 per month for the first year.
- Basalt X Festive EMI Structure:Step-up EMI plans starting from ₹9,999 per month for the first year.
Market Outlook: Flexibility for Crossover Buyers
Citroen’s refreshed portfolio gives buyers increased flexibility across power, price, and fuel choices:
- Turbo-Petrol Performance on a Budget:Available on lower YOU trims starting at ₹9.99 lakh.
- Fully Feature-Loaded Comfort:MAX NA trims allow buyers to get top-tier styling and technology features at a lower entry price.
- Alternative Fuels: Factory CNG availability caters to mileage-sensitive drivers.
- Accessible Electric Mobility:A 330 km range combined with BaaS subscription options at ₹6.99 lakh targets both private buyers and urban fleets.
