Dual-clutch automatic transmissions have become increasingly common in the Indian automotive market, with several mainstream models now offering this technology at relatively accessible price points. Known for their rapid gear shifts and responsive performance, DCT gearboxes deliver a more engaging driving experience compared to many conventional automatic options.
Previously limited to higher-end vehicles, dual-clutch transmissions are now available across a range of cars and SUVs. This development allows buyers to opt for an automatic car without compromising on driving feel or performance. For those considering a two-pedal vehicle, here is a detailed look at some of the most affordable cars in India that come equipped with a dual-clutch automatic transmission under Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom).
Tata Altroz
The first car on the list is the Tata Altroz hatchback, priced from Rs 9.52 lakh (ex-showroom). The hatch is powered by a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine producing 88 hp and 115 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. It is offered in higher-spec variants: Creative S, Accomplished S, and Accomplished+ S trims. Additionally, a CNG variant is also available.
Kia Sonet
The second car is the Kia Sonet subcompact SUV, priced from Rs 9.9 lakh (ex-showroom). The SUV is powered by a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine that develops 120 hp and 172 Nm of torque, mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. It is offered in HTK (O), HTK+ (O), HTX, GTX+, and X-Line trims. Other engine options include a 1.5-litre turbo diesel paired with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic, and a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with a 5-speed manual gearbox.
Hyundai Venue
Next on the list is the Sonet's cousin, the Hyundai Venue, priced from Rs 10.92 lakh (ex-showroom). The SUV is powered by a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine generating 120 hp and 172 Nm of torque, coupled with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. It is available in HX5, HX6, HX8, HX10, N6, and N10 trims. Other engine options include a 1.5-litre turbo diesel with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic, and a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with a 5-speed manual.
Tata Nexon
The fourth car is the Tata Nexon subcompact SUV, priced from Rs 11.25 lakh (ex-showroom). The SUV is powered by a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine producing 120 hp and 170 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. It is offered in higher-spec Creative, Creative+ PS, and Fearless+ PS trims. A 1.5-litre diesel engine option is also available, paired with an AMT or a 6-speed manual transmission.
Hyundai i20 N-line
Another hatchback on the list is the Hyundai i20 N-line, priced from Rs 11.75 lakh (ex-showroom). The hatch is powered by a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine delivering 120 hp and 172 Nm of torque, mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. It is offered in a single N8 (top-spec trim). The standard i20 is powered by a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine paired with a 5-speed manual or a CVT automatic.
Kia Syros
Another Kia model is the Kia Syros subcompact SUV, priced from Rs 11.95 lakh (ex-showroom). The SUV is powered by a 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder turbo petrol engine producing 120 hp and 172 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. It is offered in HTK+, HTK+ (O), HTX, and HTX(O) trims. Other engine options include a 1.5-litre turbo diesel with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic.
Tata Curvv
The final car on the list is the Tata Curvv coupe SUV, priced at a little over Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom). The Curvv is available with two 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engines and a 1.5-litre diesel engine. A 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission can be paired with all three powertrains, making it the only mass-market diesel model currently offered with a DCT. The gearbox is available across most variants, with the base Smart trim being the only version not offered with the automatic option.
