In recent years, Indian car buyers have shown growing interest in the Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT). It is a system that blends the control of a manual gearbox with the convenience of clutch-free driving. Introduced with the Hyundai Venue in 2020, the iMT uses a clutch-by-wire system where sensors and actuators handle clutch engagement electronically. Drivers still shift gears manually using a conventional stick, but without the need to press a clutch pedal. It also ensures that the vehicle won’t stall even when driven at higher gears during low speeds. This system optimises gear shifts and reduces clutch maintenance while offering better fuel efficiency than automatics at a lesser price too.
This setup makes urban driving easier while maintaining a sense of involvement. The technology has particularly gained popularity among urban buyers, who seek both performance and convenience. Currently, the Kia Sonet, Seltos, and Carens Clavis are the models offering this transmission type in India, giving buyers multiple options across price segments.
Kia Sonet: Accessible iMT Option For Compact SUV Buyers
The Kia Sonet iMT is available with the 1.0-litre TGDi petrol engine, which puts out 118 HP and 172 NM of torque. This combination delivers a balance between spirited performance and everyday efficiency, appealing to urban drivers who want convenience without moving to a full automatic. The Sonet offers a 6-speed iMT in the HTK, HTK(O), HTK+, HTK+(O), and HTX variants. The iMT gearbox in the Sonet also helps keep the cost lower than its DCT-equipped versions, making it a more accessible choice. Prices for the Kia Sonet with the iMT gearbox range from ₹8.79 lakh to ₹10.80 lakh (ex-showroom). With a wide variant spread and features like connected tech and ventilated seats, the Sonet iMT caters to buyers looking for a feature-rich compact SUV that’s easy to drive in traffic yet engaging on highways.
Kia Seltos: Blending Power With Everyday Ease
Moving up the range, the Kia Seltos brings the iMT option to the midsize SUV segment. It pairs the 1.5-litre TGDi petrol engine with a six-speed iMT, producing around 158 HP and 253 NM of torque. This combination offers a strong mid-range punch while keeping gear shifts smooth. The Seltos iMT is available in a solitary HTK+ variant, priced at ₹15.20 lakh (ex-showroom). It targets buyers who want the space of a midsize SUV without the higher maintenance costs associated with automatics. Moreover, the iMT variant retains features like all-disc brakes, front and rear parking sensors, and a panoramic sunroof, making it a practical yet fun-to-drive option.
Kia Carens Clavis: Newest Addition To The iMT Line-Up
The Kia Carens Clavis expands the brand’s iMT portfolio further, offering the same powertrain as the Seltos. It offers a 1.5-litre TGDi petrol engine with a six-speed iMT, which develops 158 HP and 253 NM of torque. The iMT gearbox on the Carens Clavis is available in the HTX and HTX+ (6 and 7-seater) variants. Its price ranges from ₹18.01 lakh to ₹18.98 lakh (ex-showroom). The Clavis’ clutchless manual adds to its convenience in stop-and-go traffic. It offers ease of driving, bridging the path between traditional manuals and costlier automatic versions. As the most recent entrant, it reflects Kia’s continued focus on expanding transmission choices and giving buyers flexibility based on their driving style and budget.
