HYUNDAI VENUE iMT

Breaking down how the Hyundai Venue’s new iMT clutchless manual gearbox option feels on the move

- TUHIN GUHA

Idiot-proof clutch actuation logic, marginal premium over manual

Slight learning curve to driving it

Type 998cc, 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol

Max power 120PS@6,000rpm

Max torque 172Nm@1,500-4,000rpm

LxWxH(mm) 3,995x1,770x1,605

Price ₹13.03 lakh, on-road Mumbai

OD Rating ★★★★

Hyundai seems set on a pretty clear strategy to further solidify its presence in the Indian market. This seems to be to offer as much choice as possible to buyers, enough for them to not look anywhere else for their mobility needs. That seems to be the thought behind the numerous variant and trim options, the wide engine and gearbox combinations, and an ever-growing lineup of cars across segments.

Providing another choice to buyers is the Hyundai Venue iMT. This new transmission debuts with the Venue but will also be available with its upcoming mechanical twin, the Kia Sonet.

What is an iMT?

An iMT (Intelligent Manual Transmission) is Hyundaispeak for a clutchless manual transmission. It’s not an automatic transmission at all, you will still need to change gears yourself. The idea is to provide both, the engagement of a manual, and the convenience of an automatic. The origins of this tech date back to the early 1940s and numerous carmakers like Citroen, Fiat, Alfa Romeo, VW, BMW, Toyota and even Ferrari have had a go at it since then.