Continuously variable transmission, or CVT, has become a preferred choice for city drivers in India, thanks to its smooth power delivery, fuel efficiency, and low maintenance compared to conventional automatic gearboxes. CVT gearboxes allow engines to operate at optimal RPMs, providing a seamless acceleration experience, which is particularly useful in stop-and-go traffic conditions. As a result, several automakers have introduced affordable models equipped with CVT technology to cater to urban commuters.
One of the top CVT-equipped vehicles is the Renault Kiger and its twin, the Nissan Magnite. Both cars are compact SUVs powered by a 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo-petrol engine producing 100 PS of power and 152 Nm of torque. The CVT variants of these cars ensure smooth and efficient gear shifts, improving fuel economy and overall comfort. The Renault Kiger CVT starts at ₹9.33 lakh (ex-showroom), while the Nissan Magnite Turbo CVT is priced from ₹9.67 lakh (ex-showroom), making them among the most affordable SUVs with automatic transmissions.
The Hyundai i20, a popular premium hatchback, comes with Hyundai’s intelligent variable transmission (iVT), a CVT derivative designed for efficiency and performance. The 1.2-litre Kappa petrol engine paired with the iVT produces 88 PS and 114.7 Nm, providing reliable city driving performance. The Hyundai i20 CVT is priced from ₹5.99 lakh (ex-showroom), making it one of the most accessible CVT-equipped cars in India.
Hyundai’s Creta is another strong contender in the CVT segment. This mid-size SUV offers a 1.5-litre MPI petrol engine delivering 115 PS and 143.8 Nm, paired with the iVT transmission. The combination ensures smooth acceleration, better mileage, and a comfortable ride, which has contributed to its widespread popularity in the Indian market. The Creta CVT starts at ₹10.72 lakh (ex-showroom).
Honda also offers CVT options in its Amaze, City, and Elevate models. The Honda Amaze compact sedan is powered by a 1.2-litre petrol engine producing 90 PS and 110 Nm, paired with a CVT gearbox, offering a mileage of up to 19.46 km/l. The Amaze CVT starts at ₹7.47 lakh (ex-showroom).
The Honda City sedan and its SUV sibling, the Honda Elevate, feature a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with CVT, delivering 121 PS and 145 Nm in the City and 121 PS and 145 Nm in the Elevate. The CVT variants of these vehicles provide smooth city driving and claimed mileage of 18.4 km/l and 16.92 km/l, respectively. The Honda City CVT starts at ₹11.95 lakh, while the Honda Elevate begins at ₹11.59 lakh (ex-showroom).
These CVT-equipped cars have made automatic driving more accessible to Indian buyers, combining efficiency, comfort, and affordability. Whether it is a compact hatchback, mid-size SUV, or premium sedan, the availability of CVT variants ensures a smooth and hassle-free driving experience for urban commuters, making city travel more convenient than ever.
