Today, the fast-paced modern lifestyles are quite hectic and driving through the heavy traffic is almost an everyday struggle for most of us. In such times, it’s a boon to have a car with an automatic transmission. The automatic engagement of gears not only makes driving a breeze, but also makes it quicker. While automatic transmissions have long been in the game, they are now more popular than ever. Compared to the manual transmission, which has only one simple type, the automatic transmissions are of various kinds, each with its specific advantages. In this article, we explore the types of automatic transmissions and find out which one is the best for your needs.
Torque Converter
The oldest form of automatic transmission, torque converter, is a fascinating piece of engineering. Unlike manual transmissions, the torque converter uses two parallelly placed turbines: one directly linked to the engine and the other to the transmission. In-between the turbines, a special fluid facilitates the transfer of power from the engine to the transmission. The torque converter offers better transmission cooling, thanks to a liquid encompassing the transmission as well.
However, due to a slightly advanced construction and additional elements such as the fluid, the torque converter is more expensive than the manual transmission. Some popular car models featuring torque converter transmissions include the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, and Kia Sonet.
Why should you choose a torque converter automatic?
You should choose a torque converter if you prefer the absence of a clutch completely and want a seamless driving experience. Torque converters are known for being the most reliable automatic transmissions, providing plenty of torque from the get-go, which allows for faster and smoother acceleration.
Automated Manual Transmission – AMT
Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) is not too different from the regular manual transmission and has almost the same construction in terms of gears and clutch. However, it additionally uses an actuator and an ECU (electronic control unit) to determine which gear to shift at a specific engine speed. With AMTs, there is a selector stick that you will have to use to select the drive mode.
Once it’s engaged, you can relax and drive, as the AMT will press the clutch and shift gears for you. The AMT provides a fairly smooth driving experience, although you might feel a slight jerk when it changes the gears automatically. This is the most affordable automatic transmission and can be found on cars like Tata Nexon, Maruti Suzuki Baleno, Maruti Suzuki Swift, and many more.
Why should you choose an AMT automatic?
If you prefer an automatic car but do not want to spend too much money, cars with AMT can be a nice budget-friendly option, even though it may not be the smoothest of the bunch. While there are plenty of types of automatic transmissions available, the AMT is among the most value-for-money ones.
Continuously Variable Transmission – CVT
The Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is a special automatic transmission system which uses a pulley system in which two conical pulleys are connected by a belt which drives over them. As these pulleys drive, an ECU varies their diameters, depending on the requirement, and thus modulates the rotation and delivers infinite gear ratios.
CVT is very efficient as it aims to maintain constant engine revolutions per minute (RPM) while the vehicle moves at varying speeds. You will find a CVT transmission inside cars like the Nissan Magnite, Honda Elevate, Kia Seltos, and MG Hector.
Why should you choose a CVT automatic?
CVT is one of the transmissions that offer the smoothest ride quality and best for city driving. If you prefer that, the CVT might be the one for you. Also, depending on how you drive, a CVT car can offer tremendous mileage.
Dual Clutch Transmission/Direct Shift Gearbox – DCT/DSG
A Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) or Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) uses two clutches to change gears automatically. It operates with gears arranged in odd and even groups – 1, 3, 5 and 2, 4, 6 – each operated by its clutch. Due to this arrangement, the gears are already engaged and ready to be deployed as soon as one gear’s maximum rev is achieved, providing smooth and efficient performance. This arrangement prevents power loss, unlike Automated Manual Transmission (AMT) and manual transmission.
With quick gear shifts, DSG/DCT transmissions are sportier and commonly found in high-end cars. However, some of the more accessible cars such as the Hyundai Venue, Skoda Kushaq, and Kia Carens.
Why should you choose a DCT/DSG automatic?
You should choose a DCT/DSG car if you want rapid shifts and a livelier overall performance from your car. The DCT can also offer a high mileage figure depending on the car and how you drive.
Intelligent Manual Transmission – iMT
Hyundai’s newest innovation in automatic transmission is the Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT). This groundbreaking system allows for manual gear shifting without the need to operate a clutch. The iMT incorporates an actuator that engages the clutch based on input from sensors when the gear stick is manipulated. Similar to traditional manual transmission, the driver retains control over gear shifts and can also optimize fuel economy.
Why should you choose an iMT?
If you do not mind shifting gears but do not like to use the clutch each time you have to shift, the iMT could be the one for you. Someone with enough expertise to squeeze the most out of an iMT can save a lot of money by optimizing fuel efficiency.
Summary
Today, automatic transmissions are quite popular in India. You will find Torque Converter, Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), Dual Clutch Transmission/Direct Shift Gearbox (DCT/DSG), and Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) in cars more often these days.
Transmissions such as Torque Converters and CVTs offer a seamless driving experience. On the other hand, AMTs and iMTs are affordable options for those who want either an automatic car or simply avoid using the clutch. Finally, the DCT/DSG provides rapid shifts and efficient performance. These options cater to different driving preferences and are available in multiple types of cars in the market today.
You will find these automatic transmissions in cars from popular brands such as Tata, Hyundai, Kia, Suzuki, Mahindra, Toyota, Honda, and Nissan. All you need to do is reach out to the nearest dealership of your choice to experience cars with these automatic transmissions to find the perfect choice for you.
FAQs on Types of Automatic Transmissions
Is an automatic transmission more fuel-efficient than a manual transmission?
Some automatics, like CVTs, can be more efficient in certain driving conditions. However, it significantly depends on the specific transmission and how you drive.
Is automatic transmission maintenance more expensive?
Both transmission types have similar routine maintenance costs. Although, automatic transmissions tend to be costlier during any major repairs.
Can I learn to drive an automatic car faster than a manual car?
Yes, it’s generally easier to learn to drive an automatic car because you don’t need to worry about coordinating the clutch and gear changes. And oftentimes, those are the ones that take the longest for new drivers to get used to.
Which automatic transmission is the best?
The best automatic transmission for you depends on your requirements. If you prioritize smoothness, a CVT might be ideal. If you prefer a sportier feel and faster gear changes, a DCT could be the way to go. If budget is a major concern, an AMT might be a good option.
Should I switch to an automatic car?
If you’re tired of dealing with clutch control in traffic or simply prefer a more relaxed driving experience, you might want to consider choosing an automatic car. You should test drive cars with different types of automatic transmissions to find the one that suits you best.
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FAQs on Types of Automatic Transmissions
Which automatic transmission is the best?
It all depends on the requirement, if you are gunning for a smooth and pleasant driving experience then CVT is the transmission to pick but if you are looking for performance then DSG is the best. Fuel efficiency on your mind then the torque converter, the AMT and the latest, iMT are good options.
Who can drive an automatic transmission vehicle?
Automatic transmission is very easy to drive and anybody can learn it. A lack of clutch and gears take the complexity of driving away and make it a pleasure to learn. Anybody with a valid driving license can drive an automatic transmission vehicle.
How are gears in an automatic transmission changed?
It is a very complex system involving a computer, an actuator, multiple mechanical parts and sensors. For example an AMT uses onboard computer and engine speed sensors to change gears using an actuator and other mechanical parts.
Should I buy a car with automatic transmission?
If you are a new driver and are not confident with changing gears, you should go for an automatic transmission. However, automatic transmissions don’t come cheap and you’ll have to cough up a decent premium to get one home. However, you can save a lot of money if you opt for an automatic car on Spinny. Check them out here https://www.spinny.com/used-automatic-cars-in-delhi-ncr/s/
Which cars in India offer automatic transmission?
All major brands like Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Honda etc. offer auto transmission on all their cars.
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