Former Indian cricket team captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, known for his modest lifestyle and passion for automobiles, was recently seen behind the wheel of the newly launched Citroen Basalt Dark Edition in his hometown, Ranchi. The moment quickly went viral, drawing attention to Citroen’s latest offering in the Indian SUV segment.
Dhoni’s Association with Citroen
French carmaker Citroen, which entered the Indian market with a premium and youth-centric strategy, appointed MS Dhoni as its brand ambassador in 2024. Earlier this year, the brand launched its Dark Edition lineup for three models—Basalt, C3, and C3 Aircross—and gifted the first-ever Basalt Dark Edition to Dhoni.
Fans in Ranchi spotted the cricket legend casually cruising through the city, adding to the anticipation and buzz around the new variant.
Citroen Basalt Dark Edition: Pricing and Interior Features
The Citroen Basalt Dark Edition is priced between ₹12.80 lakh and ₹14.10 lakh (ex-showroom). This variant commands a premium of approximately ₹23,000 over the standard Basalt model.
Staying true to its name, the Dark Edition sports an all-black gloss exterior finish, with dark-themed interiors to match. Key features include:
- 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- 7-inch fully digital instrument cluster
- Automatic climate control
- Ambient cabin lighting
- Wireless smartphone charger
- Steering-mounted controls
These updates are cosmetic and comfort-oriented, designed to elevate the overall driving experience.
Engine and Transmission
While the aesthetics have been upgraded, the mechanical setup remains unchanged in the Dark Edition. The SUV is powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine, capable of producing:
- 108 horsepower
- 205 Nm of torque
Buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission, offering a balance between city driving comfort and highway performance.
Citroen’s Strategy in India
The launch of the Dark Edition and Dhoni’s continued association with the brand signal Citroen’s intent to deepen its roots in India’s competitive automotive market. With Gen Z and young professionals leaning toward sporty, tech-rich cars, the Basalt Dark Edition appears well-positioned.
