Dual-clutch automatic transmissions have become increasingly common in the Indian market, with several mainstream models now offering the technology at relatively accessible price points. Known for their quick gear shifts and responsive performance, DCT gearboxes provide a more engaging driving experience than many conventional automatic options.Previously limited to higher-end vehicles, dual-clutch transmissions are now available across a range of cars and SUVs. This has allowed buyers to opt for an automatic car without compromising on driving feel or performance. For those considering a two-pedal vehicle, here is a 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 NA petrol engine producing 88 hp and 115 Nm of torque, and is paired with a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. It’s offered in higher-spec Creative S, Accomplished S, and Accomplished+ S trims. It also gets a CNG variant. Kia Sonet The second car on the list 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 which produces 120 hp power and 172 nm torque and comes paired with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox. It’s offered in HTK (O), HTK+ (O), HTX, GTX+, and X-Line trims. Other engine options include a 1.5-litre turbo diesel which comes paired with a 6-speed MT or a 6-speed torque converter automatic. There’s also a 1.2-litre NA petrol engine which comes paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Hyundai Venue Next on the list is, 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 which produces 120 hp power and 172 nm torque and comes paired with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox. It’s offered in HX5, HX6, HX8, HX10, N6, N10 trims. Other engine options include a 1.5-litre turbo diesel which comes paired with a 6-speed MT or a 6-speed torque converter automatic. There’s also a 1.2-litre NA petrol engine which comes paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Tata Nexon Next car on the list 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 which produces 120 hp power and 170 nm torque and comes paired with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox. It’s offered in higher-spec Creative, Creative+ PS, Fearless+ PS trims. There’s also a 1.5-litre diesel engine option which comes paired with an AMT or a 6-speed manual. 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 which produces 120 hp power and 172 nm torque and comes paired with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox. It’s offered in a single N8 (top-spec trim). The standard i20 is powered by a 1.2-litre NA petrol engine paired with a 5-speed manual or a CVT automatic. Kia SyrosAnother Kia on the list 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 which produces 120 hp power and 172 nm torque and comes paired with a 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox. It’s offered in HTK+, HTK+ (O), HTX, and HTX(O) trims. Other engine options include a 1.5-litre turbo diesel which comes paired with a 6-speed MT or a 6-speed torque converter automatic.Tata Curvv Next car on the list is the Tata Curvv coupe SUV priced at a little over 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.
