Confused Between Kia Seltos Automatic Options? All 4 Gearbox Choices Explained

2026 Kia Seltos All Transmission Options Explained

When it comes to mid-sized SUVs in India, few rivals come as close to the South Korean brands when it comes to offering various engine and transmission options. For instance, the new Kia Seltos offers a 6-speed manual transmission and four different automatic transmission options to choose from across its 10 variants and three engine choices. Here’s a quick explainer on each type of automatic gearbox that the Seltos gets, to help you understand which one suits your requirements.

1. Kia Seltos 6-Speed iMT Automatic –

Available only with the 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, the 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) combines the simplicity of a manual transmission with the convenience of driving an automatic. That is because the gearbox does not require a clutch for the driver to shift gears. The transmission control unit sensors instead anticipate the driver’s intention to shift gears when they shift the gear lever and allow the clutch to automatically engage. This type of transmission reduces clutch fatigue in traffic and also offers better fuel efficiency as the clutch is controlled by actuators. It is an economical alternative to more complicated automatic transmissions.

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2. Kia Seltos IVT Automatic –

This transmission option is available only with the 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine. Looking at the engine pairing, it is clear that this transmission is focused on fuel efficiency as a priority. Unlike traditional gear-based transmissions, the Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) adjusts its gear ratios based on a belt rather than mechanical gears. This makes the drive and acceleration seamless and also adds to the fuel efficiency while making a less powerful engine feel more responsive. It also makes it more durable in stop-and-go traffic. The IVT automatic is suitable for drivers who have everyday commutes during rush hour periods.

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3. Kia Seltos 6-Speed AT –

The 6-speed AT in the Kia lineup refers to the torque converter automatic transmission. Torque converters are considered to be traditional automatic gearboxes that are known for reliability and ease of use. Kia offers the 6-speed AT exclusively with the 1.5-litre CRDi diesel engine option, as the transmission is also suitable for longer journeys.

4. Kia Seltos 7-Speed DCT Automatic –

Paired exclusively to the turbocharged petrol engine, the 7-speed Double Clutch Transmission (DCT) offers quick and seamless shifts along with rapid acceleration. Preferred by performance enthusiasts, the gearbox relies on two dry clutches that engage alternate gears and make quick shifts effortlessly. While a DCT gearbox feels rewarding to drive on an open road, it has a tendency to feel jerky at low speeds and can also potentially heat up in stop-and-go traffic. This is because it works on a dry clutch system. The 7DCT is recommended for drivers who prioritise performance over efficiency.

Kia Seltos 1.5 Petrol With IVT Suitable For Heavy Traffic Commutes

Overall, there is an automatic version of the new Seltos to suit different needs and the above explainer can help readers understand which automatic gearbox is best suited for them or if the 6-speed manual transmission is the way to go.

Amber Banerjee is a seasoned automotive journalist with over a decade of experience covering the Indian mobility landscape. Skilled in writing, video …

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