Types Of Automatic Transmissions In Cars: Which One Is Best For You?

Automatic transmissions in cars solve many purposes at the same time. Of course their most important job is to provide stress-free driving that negates the use of clutch which makes the drivers feel less fatigued. They are considered as a boon especially in urban scenarios where frequent gear shifts are needed and the car does the job on your behalf. Based on the kind of performance, mechanism and fuel efficiency they help deliver, Automatic transmissions are of various kinds and here we list them out for you.

Torque Convertor Automatic

Known as the conventional automatic gearbox system, the torque-converter automatic uses a hydraulic torque converter instead of a manual clutch and a set of planetary gearsets to deliver power through different gears. It guarantees a smooth operation and is considered to be quite reliable. It is also able to handle high amounts of torque making it more usable in big vehicles. A torque convertor is not as economical when it comes to fuel efficiency but is good on performance. In India some of the mass market cars that run on a torque converters are Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Tata Harrier and Mahindra Scorpio.

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Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

A CVT uses a different approach to function when compared to torque converters. It has a belt or chain running between two variable pulleys which results in an infinite number of gear ratios. With no conventional gear changes CVTs are considered to be quite smooth and also help in achieving good economy. They are compact and lightweight but are not as performance oriented as some other types of automatic transmissions. Popular cars running on CVTs are Honda City, Hyundai i20 and Renault Kiger.

Automated Manual Transmission (AMT)

An AMT is the most affordable form of an Automatic transmission where electronic actuators operate the clutch and gear changes, mimicking the actions of a manual transmission but without driver input. Apart from being cost-effective they offer great fuel economy and are simple to maintain. More suited for slow moving city traffic AMTs have noticeable jerky shifts when pushed hard and are also less refined. Mass cars like the Maruti Suzuki Swift, Renault Kwid and Tata Punch run on this tech.

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Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)

If you’re looking for most performance-oriented automatics, then Dual-clutch transmissions are the answer. They use two clutches for alternate gears which ensures quick shifts as the gears are pre-selected. This provides fast acceleration and a sporty feel and due to direct mechanical engagement fuel efficiency too is decent. However not all DCTs are suited for stop-and-go traffic and can be more expensive to repair. Apart from cars like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Syros and Volkswagen Taigun a lot of premium sportscars also use dual clutch gearboxes.

Single-Speed Transmissions in Electric Vehicles

Automatic transmissions in most electric vehicles are single speed transmissions. Here, the electric motor delivers a wide torque band which eliminates the need for multiple gears. As a result they have a smooth operation and are highly reliable. As there are no gear changes acceleration also is smooth with no performance issues. Popular EVs sold in the market like Nexon EV, MG Windsor and Mahindra BE6 use this gearbox

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Hybrid Transmissions (e-CVT)

Hybrid cars have automatic transmissions that are required to blend electric motor output with the engine. Most common form are e-CVTs which are different from conventional CVTs as they do not use a belt-type transmission. Instead electric motors and planetary gearsets are used to combine and split power sources. Despite having a slightly complex architecture these ATs are smooth and ensure high fuel efficiency. Hybrid cars in the market like Maruti Suzuki grand Vitara and Toyota Innova Hycross use this type of transmission.

It is a good idea to choose to the right kind of transmission while buying a vehicle with automatic gearbox. Choosing the wrong transmission may end up giving you more trouble instead of adding to the convenience. From affordability to the conditions in which the car will be used to the all-important fuel economy there is no one transmission that can do it all as each type brings its own strengths and trade-offs.