Korean automaker, Hyundai has launched the new ‘clutchless manual’ gearbox to its Venue compact SUV in India. Called iMT or Intelligent Manual Transmission, the new gearbox is available on the SX trim of the Venue’s 1.0L turbocharged petrol engine
The Hyundai Venue SX iMT is priced at Rs 8.32 lakh, while the top-spec SX(O) Sport is tagged at Rs 11.21 lakh. The new iMT gearbox is available in total of 4 variants – SX, SX Sport, SX(O) and SX (O) Sport. The iMT gearbox is only available with the 1.0L turbocharged petrol engine, which is capable of producing 118bhp of power and 172Nm of torque. Besides iMT, the Venue 1.0L is available with a 6-speed manual and a 7-speed DCT automatic options.
The iMT gearbox offers convenience of 2-pedal clutch-less technology and “fun-to-drive elements” of a manual gearbox. The iMT system has an ‘intention sensor’ that works with the gear lever and notifies a transmission control unit (TCU) when the driver changes gears. The TCU unit transmits signals to a hydraulic actuator to employ and lay off the clutch plate while gear shifting.
Apart from the iMT version, Hyundai has also introduced a new Sport cosmetic package to the Venue’s line-up. The Venue Sport Pack is offered with the SX, SX+ and SX(O) variants, which comes with 1.0L petrol and 1.5L diesel engines. In the Sport package, Hyundai is giving dual-tone exterior colour options, glossy black grille with a red insert, roof rails and air-inlet painted in grey and red brake calipers.
The Hyundai Venue Sport package also offers new steering with contrasting red stitching, dark grey upholstery with red stitches and red accents all around the cabin. What’s more interesting is that the Venue 1.0 Turbo with dual-clutch transmission is now available with paddle shifters. The Venue Sport SX Sport iMT is priced at Rs 10.20 lakh, while the SX+ Sport 1.0 Turbo costs Rs 11.58 lakh. The Venue 1.2L version also receives a new S+ variant.
