Top 5 Most Affordable Cars To Offer Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)

Dual-clutch transmission (DCT) were once seen only in high-end performance cars, but in recent years they have made their way into the affordable segments of the Indian market. Known for their ability to deliver rapid and smooth gearshifts, DCTs offer more than just convenience. While conventional automatics like CVTs and torque converters are common, Dual-clutch transmission (DCT) offer a sportier and more engaging driving feel. Manufacturers like Tata, Hyundai, Kia, Skoda and Volkswagen now offer Dual-clutch transmission (DCT) across hatchbacks, sedans and SUVs, expanding choices for buyers. Below is a table showing the price ranges for the DCT-equipped variants of the top ten most affordable cars currently on sale in India:

TATA Altroz

At the entry point of the list is the Tata Altroz, which makes it the most affordable DCT equipped car in India currently. It uses a 6-speed unit paired with a 1.2-litre petrol engine. While not as quick as some of its rivals, the Altroz DCA offers smoothness at a price point where most competitors still rely on AMTs.

Our test of the 6 speed DCT in the pre-facelift Altroz revealed that it is largely smooth, but it is not as quick as its competitors, and we observed a slight delay when engaging reverse.

Hyundai i20 N Line

The Hyundai i20 N Line, on the other hand, approaches Dual-clutch transmission (DCT) from a sportier angle. Equipped with a 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 7-speed DCT, it is marketed as a hot hatch with paddle shifters and a tuned suspension. Together, these hatchbacks show how DCTs are being offered not just as luxury features.

Our i 20 N line review found the 7-speed DCT to be smooth and well-sorted in its operation, though it felt slightly sluggish when using the paddle shifters. The widely spaced gear ratios can also cause the car to lose momentum on uphill climbs.

Hyundai Venue

The compact SUV segment is one of the most competitive in India, and both Hyundai and Tata have brought Dual-clutch transmission DCT into the mix to appeal to buyers who want comfort with an edge. The Venue’s 7-speed DCT is coupled with the 1.0-litre turbo-petrol motor, available even in its mid-range trims. While not flawless in stop-go traffic, it is quick to upshift and offers more involvement than a CVT. The Nexon takes a slightly different route by using a 7-speed DCT

Our letest venue review  noted that the 7-speed DCT shifts briskly and effectively, although downshifts can occasionally be slower than expected.

TATA Nexon

The Nexon takes a slightly different route by using a 7-speed Dual-clutch transmission (DCT) tuned for efficiency. Although the gearbox is not the fastest in its class, it balances refinement with economy, making the Nexon a good choice.

Our Nexon review noted that the DCT is tuned for fuel efficiency, often starting from a standstill in second gear. The transmission becomes smoother as speeds increase, with upshifts that are smooth, though not as quick as some competitors.

Kia Sonet

The Kia Sonet continues to be one of the most feature-loaded sub-4-metre SUVs. Its 1.0-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with a 7-speed DCT makes it appealing to buyers. It shares similarities with the Venue but benefits from Kia’s broader equipment list.

Our review of the Sonet found that its DCT can be slightly clunky and slow at low RPMs, but its quick upshifts effectively utilise the engine’s performance.