It looks like the success of the iMT variants of Hyundai Venue and Kia Sonet has pushed Maruti Suzuki India Ltd to introduce a similar clutches manual gearbox technology that could be made available on the next-gen Vitara Brezza and Celerio
Indian auto giant Maruti has recently filed a trademark application for the ‘S-Assist’ name in India. While there is no official word on it, the ‘S-Assist’ moniker will likely be used for Maruti’s clutchless manual transmission. Rival automakers like Hyundai and Kia are already offering this type of gearbox on models like the Venue and the Sonet. Our guess is that after seeing the success of these models, Maruti could introduce this technology on the Vitara Brezza, albeit, on the next-generation model.
A clutchless manual gearbox is essentially a hybrid of manual and automatic gearbox setups. In this system, the driver doesn’t have to engage a clutch pedal while shifting the gears manually. There’s a sensor with the gear level that signals a TCU (transmission control unit) whenever the driver is about to change gears. The TCU then sends this information to a hydraulic actuator to engage and disengage the clutch plate to change gears seamlessly.
Also Read- Battle Of The Transmissions- Torque Converter vs DCT vs CVT vs AMT vs iMT
A clutchless manual gearbox is useful in conditions like daily rush hour traffic, where operating the clutch continuously can tire the driver out and can lead to further health problems. By eliminating the clutch pedal altogether, this issue is addressed and makes driving in traffic a less stressful experience.
Also Read- Hyundai Venue iMT Mileage Check With DCT And Manual Variants – Tested!
Maruti is also gearing up for the launch of the next-generation Celerio. The hatchback will come with an all-new design while the interior will see a marked upgrade in quality and creature comforts. The new Celerio will be based on the same HEARTECT platform that underpins the current Swift and will get a longer wheelbase compared to the outgoing model. The hatchback will come with the option of a 1.2-litre or 1-litre petrol engine. Following the Celerio will be the New Maruti Vitara Brezza that is slated to launch during the 2021 festive season. Like the Celerio, the new model of the subcompact SUV will be based on the HEARTECT platform that will make it stiffer and safer than before. The new Vitara Brezza will continue to be powered by the 1.5-litre N/A petrol engine but will feature a stronger hybrid system. It will also come with a new 6-speed automatic gearbox instead of the current 4-speed unit.
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