Automatic cars are no longer a frill in India; they’re the new norm. Among all automatic transmission technologies, DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission) has gained tremendous popularity for its super-fast gear shifts, silky smooth performance, and thrilling driving experience. DCT is a performance-oriented transmission normally seen in high-end cars, as opposed to AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) or CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).
So, if you are on the hunt for a smooth, automatic, performance-focused, and fun-to-drive car, this list of DCT cars in India is exactly for you. We have compiled a list of the top DCT cars from various segments, including hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs and MPVs.
List of DCT Cars in India
Let’s take a look at some of the best DCT cars in India, ranging from small hatches to luxury sedans and SUVs.
| Car | Engine | Mileage | Ex-Showroom Price |
| Tata Altroz | 1.2L Turbo Petrol | 19.33 kmpl | Rs.8.50 lakh onwards |
| Kia Seltos | 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 17.9 kmpl | Rs.20 lakh onwards |
| Hyundai Verna | 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 20.6 kmpl | Rs.15.27 lakh onwards |
| Volkswagen Virtus | 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 19.62 kmpl | Rs.19.15 lakh onwards |
| Skoda Slavia | 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 19.36 kmpl | Rs.16.39 lakh onwards |
| Hyundai i20 N-Line | 1.0L Turbo Petrol | 20.25 kmpl | Rs.11.19 lakh onwards |
| Kia Sonet | 1.0L Turbo Petrol | 19.2 kmpl | Rs.12.70 lakh onwards |
| Hyundai Venue | 1.0L Turbo Petrol | 18.31 kmpl | Rs.11.95 lakh onwards |
| Kia Carens | 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 16.5 kmpl | Rs.16.40 lakh onwards |
| Volkswagen Taigun | 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 19 kmpl | Rs.17.36 lakh onwards |
| Skoda Kushaq | 1.5L Turbo Petrol | 18.86 kmpl | Rs.17.61 lakh onwards |
1. Tata Altroz DCT
The Tata Altroz DCT is the first and sole premium hatchback from Tata Motors to get the wet-clutch 6-speed DCT. The wet-clutch arrangement, as compared to dry-clutch DCTs of other vehicles, is better suited for more durability and less heat issues, thus better suited for Indian traffic. The 1.2L turbo-petrol engine offers 110 PS and 140 Nm of torque, which is not class-leading but sufficient.
The shifts are smooth during low-speed driving, eliminating stop-and-go traffic weariness. Still, the lag can be felt by enthusiasts when driving aggressively because of the conservative tuning. The DCT gearbox is tuned to be smooth rather than hard-shifting, and hence, it will be appropriate for city conditions. Besides that, the wet-clutch DCT setup is also more reliable, reducing the likelihood of overheating, a key issue in other DCTs. Altroz also receives a 5-star Global NCAP rating and is one of the safest DCT hatchbacks in India that comes with multiple top-end safety features.
Tata Altroz DCT Specifications:
- Engine: 1.2L Turbo Petrol
- Transmission: 6-Speed Wet DCT
- Mileage: 19.33 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: Hatchback
Tata Altroz Key Features
- 90-degree wide-opening doors for easy ingress and egress
- 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment with voice commands
- iRA connected car tech with remote vehicle functions
- Cooled glovebox for added convenience
- Express cooling function for faster cabin cooling
2. Kia Seltos DCT
The Kia Seltos DCT is one of India’s favourite turbo-petrol SUVs. The 1.5L T-GDi engine delivers 160 PS of power and 253 Nm of torque and is one of the most powerful engines in its category. The 7-speed DCT is a dream for aggressive shifters and performance maniacs. Plus, the turbo-petrol engine is snappy with Sport mode and will give you ample power with super quick gearshifts.
In contrast to most comfort-tuned SUVs, the Seltos gets responsive steering and a firm suspension and focuses on handling. The DCT is smooth on highways but gets a bit reluctant in bumper-to-bumper traffic, a characteristic of dry-clutch DCTs. You also get ventilated seats, a 10.25-inch infotainment system, ADAS Level 2, and a heads-up display.
Kia Seltos DCT Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5L Turbo Petrol
- Transmission: 7-Speed DCT
- Mileage: 17.9 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: Compact SUV
Kia Seltos Key Features
- 10.25-inch panoramic dual-screen setup for infotainment and cluster
- Dual-zone automatic climate control for personalised comfort
- Ambient lighting with 64 colour options
- Electric seat adjustment for driver
- Smart air purifier with virus and bacteria protection
3. Hyundai Verna DCT
The Hyundai Verna Turbo DCT is not just a sedan, but a performance car in disguise of a family sedan. The 1.5L turbo-petrol motor delivers 160 PS and 253 Nm and boasts the most powerful engine among any other sedan in its price segment. The Verna DCT features a sports car-like acceleration and accelerates from 0-100 kmph in approximately 8.45 seconds, beating quite a few luxury sedans in the Rs. 50 Lakh+ category.
Earlier Verna models emphasised comfort; however, the current Verna boasts a stiffer body, which enhances high-speed stability. The Verna also receives a neatly sorted DCT with virtually no heating issues, making it more trustworthy in stop-and-go traffic. The Verna is also Hyundai’s first car to receive a 5-star safety rating from GNCAP. The car also comes with ADAS Level 2 with adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and forward-collision warning for added safety.
Hyundai Verna DCT Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5L Turbo Petrol (160 PS, 253 Nm)
- Transmission: 7-Speed DCT
- Mileage: 20.6 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: Sedan
Hyundai Verna Key Features
- Premium switchable infotainment and climate control panel
- Hands-free smart trunk for added convenience
- Front ventilated and heated seats for all-weather comfort
- Wide 10.25-inch curved display with high-resolution graphics
- Acoustic laminated windshield for better cabin insulation
4. Volkswagen Virtus DCT
The Volkswagen Virtus GT DCT is a dream for German car enthusiasts in India as it comes with a turbo-petrol engine, extremely quick DSG (DCT) gearbox, and fantastic handling. Based on the MQB-A0-IN platform, it’s engineered to provide German-standard stability and protection. The 1.5L TSI EVO engine produces a massive 150 PS of power with 250 Nm of torque. It is super quick, refined, and ideal for performance-oriented high-speed driving.
Compared to the Verna, which relies solely on acceleration and speed, the Virtus is all about handling, stability, and German driving dynamics. Volkswagen’s DSG transmission is more advanced compared to most other DCTs and allows for quicker shifts and better durability. On top of that, the Virtus is one of the safest sedans in its class, with a 5-star NCAP Rating.
Volkswagen Virtus DCT Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5L TSI Turbo Petrol
- Transmission: 7-Speed DSG (DCT)
- Mileage: 19.62 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: Sedan
Volkswagen Virtus Key Features
- Digital cockpit with customisable displays
- Wireless phone charging with a cooling function
- Auto-dimming inside rearview mirror (IRVM)
- Touch-sensitive AC controls for a sleek interface
- Electric sunroof with anti-pinch feature
5. Skoda Slavia DCT
Skoda Slavia DCT 1.5 TSI is the cousin of the Volkswagen Virtus, and it uses the same platform, engine, and gearbox. But while the Virtus is more associated with sportiness, the Slavia walks the thin line between comfort and high-performance driving, making it an excellent all-rounder sedan. The 1.5L TSI turbo-petrol engine produces 150 PS or power and 250 Nm of torque and promises effortless highway cruising and peppery city driving.
The 7-speed DSG (DCT) transmission is smooth and snappy, although somewhat jerky, with low-speed crawling in stop-and-go traffic, typical of most DSG transmissions. On open roads, the Slavia is assertive, well-tuned, and confident on curves, with a suspension tune that soaks up bumps in its stride without compromising handling. The Slavia, unlike its fraternal twin Virtus, rides softer and is perfect for those who prioritise comfort over zestful driving.
Skoda Slavia DCT Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5L Turbo Petrol
- Transmission: 7-Speed DSG (DCT)
- Mileage: 19.36 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: Sedan
Skoda Slavia Key Features
- MySkoda Connect for live vehicle tracking & geofencing
- Ventilated front seats with leatherette upholstery
- Electric sunroof with rain-sensing closure
- Tilt & telescopic steering adjustment for added comfort
- Rear AC vents with USB Type-C charging ports
6. Hyundai i20 N-Line DCT
The Hyundai i20 N-Line is a segment leader in the premium hatchback category. It comes with a 1.0L turbo-petrol engine that produces 120 PS of power, 172 Nm of torque and a 7-speed DCT that provides rapid-fire shifts and enthusiastic acceleration. In spite of its small dimensions, the i20 is very peppy and active on the road and one of the most exciting hatchbacks to drive in its class.
The handling is light and responsive, and city driving becomes easy as the suspension provides a wonderful balance of comfort and stability. The DCT transmission is highly tuned, smooth-shifting, and nearly lag-free, though hard acceleration in lower gears can cause disappointment to some. The cabin is roomy for a hatch and comes with multiple unique features, like a Bose sound system, a digital instrument panel, and a 10.25-inch infotainment display.
Hyundai i20 DCT Specifications:
- Engine: 1.0L Turbo Petrol
- Transmission: 7-Speed DCT
- Mileage: 20.2 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: Hatchback
Hyundai i20 N-Line Key Features
- Sporty red ambient lighting for a premium cabin feel
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel with N badging & paddle shifters
- Metal-finished pedals for a racing-inspired look
- Voice-controlled sunroof operation
- Twin-tip exhaust with a sportier sound profile
7. Kia Sonet DCT
The Kia Sonet DCT is among the hottest sub-compact SUVs to drive in India, featuring a 1.0L turbo-petrol engine (120 PS, 172 Nm) coupled with a 7-speed DCT gearbox. The Sonet is surprisingly quick and active, considering its compact size and is one of the most thrilling sub-4m SUVs to drive. The gearbox changes smoothly in most conditions. But in heavy traffic conditions, the DCT sometimes gets left behind, a characteristic common to dry-clutch DCTs.
Handling is light and direct with the light and responsive steering, and it is very easy to manoeuvre in city streets. Another thing to note is that the suspension is stiff and will give you a slightly sporty edge over the likes of the Tata Nexon. On the highways, the Sonet corners nicely and is a breeze to overtake, courtesy of its sharp engine and prompt downshifts. The Sonet is one of the most tech-loaded cars in its segment and comes with a Bose sound system, ventilated front seats, an air purifier, and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen.
Kia Sonet DCT Specifications:
- Engine: 1.0L Turbo Petrol
- Transmission: 7-Speed DCT
- Mileage: 19.2 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: Compact SUV
Kia Sonet Key Features
- Smart pure air purifier with virus protection
- 10.25-inch infotainment screen with split-screen capability
- Bose premium sound system with 7 speakers & subwoofer
- Remote engine start with a keyless entry
- Semi-leatherette seats with contrast stitching
8. Hyundai Venue DCT
The Hyundai Venue Turbo DCT uses the same 1.0L turbo-petrol engine (120 PS, 172 Nm) of the Sonet but with slightly comfort-biased tuning. While the Sonet is sportier in its driving persona, the suspension setup of the Venue is more compliant and softer, giving it an edge for buyers who value comfort over outright quickness.
The 7-speed DCT is smooth and silky, with quiet shifts in all but stop-go traffic, typical of dry-clutch DCTs. On the inside, the Venue offers a digital driver’s instrument cluster, connected car technology, a sunroof, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
Hyundai Venue DCT Specifications:
- Engine: 1.0L Turbo Petrol
- Transmission: 7-Speed DCT
- Mileage: 18.31 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: Compact SUV
Hyundai Venue Key Features
- Segment-first 4-way powered driver seat adjustment
- Home-to-car Alexa & Google Assistant voice commands
- Paddle shifters for quicker gear shifts in automatic variants
- Rear seat reclining function for enhanced passenger comfort
- Bluelink connected car tech with over-the-air updates
9. Kia Carens DCT
The Kia Carens is a three-row MPV that introduces the luxury of a DCT transmission to family vehicles. In contrast to the conventional MPVs that opt for space only, the Carens brings a hint of performance with its 1.5L turbo-petrol engine and 7-speed DCT. The Carens is surprisingly agile and quick, considering its size, with a smooth and refined driving experience.
The DCT transmission is quick-shifting, making highway overtaking quite easy and the sporty nature of the car due to the high mid-range torque of the engine is staggering. The Carens has one of the largest cabins in the segment, with comfortable and well-placed three-row seats, roof-mounted air conditioning ducts, front ventilated seats, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Safety is not an issue either, with six airbags as standard.
Kia Carens DCT Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5L Turbo Petrol
- Transmission: 7-Speed DCT
- Mileage: 17.5 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Seating Capacity: 6/7
- Body Type: MPV
Kia Carens Key Features
- One-touch electric tumble function for easy third-row access
- Roof-mounted rear AC vents with speed control
- Rear door sunshades for added comfort
- Foldable seat-back tray with cupholders in the second row
- LED sound mood lighting for an ambient feel
10. Volkswagen Taigun
The Volkswagen Taigun is a driver-centric compact SUV with a 1.5L TSI turbo-petrol engine (150 PS, 250 Nm) and a 7-speed DSG transmission. It is one of the most exciting SUVs to drive in its class, with its instant throttle response, rapid shifting gears, and spirited mid-range.
The DSG (DCT) transmission is also one of the quickest-shifting gearboxes in this segment, and acceleration is as silky as can be. The Taigun also takes us by surprise with its agile steering and taut suspension, providing one of the class-best high-speed handling packages. Volkswagen has also made sure that the vehicle does not lack safety features, and also has a 5-star Global NCAP rating.
Volkswagen Taigun DCT Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5L Turbo Petrol
- Transmission: 7-Speed DSG (DCT)
- Mileage: 19 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: SUV
Volkswagen Taigun Key Features
- Red ambient lighting with a premium cabin finish
- Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay support
- Ventilated front seats for added driving comfort
- Auto-folding ORVMs with heated functionality
- Smart touch climate control for easy adjustments
11. Skoda Kushaq DCT
Skoda Kushaq DSG’s underpinnings are the same as Taigun, with both using a common 1.5L TSI turbo-petrol engine and 7-speed DSG gearbox. But the Kushaq is slightly more laid-back, with a softer suspension setup than the Taigun’s firm ride. The ride is still smooth with snappy shifting, aggressive mid-range tug, and fantastic high-speed stability.
The steering provides a good balance of lightness for urban use and weight for highway cruising, and it’s sure-footed at all speeds. Kushaq also comes with multiple safety features, and the car has been awarded a 5-star safety rating from Global NCAP. If you want a fun, premium, and comfortable SUV with German driving dynamics and a touch of Czech comfort, the Kushaq DSG is an excellent option.
Skoda Kushaq DCT Specifications:
- Engine: 1.5L Turbo Petrol
- Transmission: 7-Speed DSG (DCT)
- Mileage: 19 kmpl
- Airbags: 6
- Fuel Type: Petrol
- Seating Capacity: 5
- Body Type: SUV
Skoda Kushaq Key Features
- Two-spoke steering wheel with infotainment & cruise controls
- Skoda Sound System with subwoofer for premium audio
- Wireless smartphone charger with cooling function
- Front seat ventilation for long-drive comfort
- Anti-theft alarm with interior monitoring
DCT Cars Summary
DCT cars offer fast gear shifts, better acceleration, and a premium driving experience compared to traditional automatics. If you’re a performance enthusiast, they are an excellent choice. However, they are slightly more expensive and require careful maintenance to ensure long-term reliability.
The Hyundai i20 DCT and Tata Altroz DCT are good choices for budget-friendly DCTs. If you’re more into SUVs, then you can go with the Kia Seltos or the Volkswagen Taigun. For sedan and performance-centric customers, the Hyundai Verna and Volkswagen Virtus are some excellent sedans to consider.
FAQs
Q1. Is a DCT car suitable for Indian roads?
Ans: Yes! DCT vehicles are ideal for Indian roads because they offer smooth traffic shiftability and fantastic highway driving.
Q2. What is the most budget-friendly DCT vehicle in India?
Ans: The Tata Altroz DCT is the most budget-friendly DCT vehicle at Rs. 8.50 lakh.
Q3. Are DCT vehicles fuel-efficient?
Ans: DCT vehicles are more efficient compared to torque converters but less than CVTs.
Q4. Are DCT vehicles costly to repair?
Ans: Yes, DCT transmissions are heavier in maintenance compared to AMTs or CVTs, and repair is expensive.
Q5. Which DCT car is best for performance?
Ans: The Volkswagen Virtus GT and the Hyundai Verna 1.5 Turbo are unmatched in terms of performance and are the best performance-centric DCT cars in India.
