Hyundai Venue To Be Offered With iMT Clutchless Manual Transmission In India

Hyundai will be launching the new gearbox alongside the existing optional transmissions that are already available with the turbo-petrol engine. Currently, the 1.0-litre T-GDI unit is offered with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The iMT transmission is expected to make its way into the compact-SUVs line-up sometime this month.

The (iMT) stands for intelligent manual transmission, and it will not have a manually-operated clutch as seen on the conventional manual gearbox. The transmission will still have a clutch, however, the task of operating the clutch will be done by a (TCU) transmission control unit and a couple of sensors.

As soon as the driver is about to change the gear, the sensor sends the signals to a hydraulic actuator to engage and disengage the clutch plate. The company claims that the iMT gearbox will provide enhanced convenience without compromising on fuel efficiency and performance, unlike a conventional torque-converter automatic transmission.

Hyundai is offering the 1.0-litre T-GDI engine is offered in a couple of trims with both manual and automatic transmissions. The turbo-petrol retails between Rs 8.46 lakh and 11.51 lakh, ex-showroom (Delhi). The iMT is also expected to be offered in a couple of trim levels as well.

Alongside the turbo-petrol engine, the Venue is also offered with other engine and transmission options. The 1.2-litre naturally aspirated engine produces 82bhp and 115Nm of torque and comes mated to a standard five-speed gearbox. The 1.5-litre diesel unit produces 100bhp and 240Nm of torque and is paired to a six-speed manual transmission.

Some of the highlighted features of the Hyundai Venue include the brand's ‘BlueLink' connected technology, cruise control, wireless phone charging, an eight-inch touch screen infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, six airbags, hill assist control, vehicle stability management, electronic stability control, a reverse parking camera with digital guidelines, and ABS with EBD and a host of other features.

The Hyundai Venue rivals the newly launched Honda WR-V, the Tata Nexon, the Mahindra XUV300 the Maruti Vitara Brezza, and the Ford EcoSport in the Indian market. However, the highly competitive compact-SUV segment in India will soon receive a few new models including the Nissan Magnite, the Renault Kriger and Venue's upcoming primary rival the Kia Sonet.

Thoughts About The Hyundai Venue To Be Offered With iMT Clutchless Manual Transmission In India

The Hyundai Venue turbo-petrol variant has certainly started a revolution in the Indian market. The increasing demand for the turbo-petrol engine has encouraged the company to introduce a new transmission option. The iMT transmission offers the best of both worlds by offering the convenience by not having to manual-operate the clutch pedal, yet shifting gears using a lever.