In recent times, sales in the compact SUV segment has skyrocketed in the country. Interestingly, we have also witnessed a growing demand for an automatic option. Now, there are two popular selling models in the compact SUV segment that already come with an AMT gearbox, namely the Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza and Tata Nexon. Meanwhile, Mahindra too is all set to introduce an AMT variant of the XUV300. Read below to learn how these three cars fare against each other –
Maruti Suzuki Vitara Brezza AGS
The Vitara Brezza is a strong selling product for Maruti Suzuki in India. The company introduced AGS (Auto Gear Shift) which is Maruti’s take on AMT. The vehicle is available in three variants – Vdi, ZDi and ZDi+/ZDi+ Dual Tone. Mechanically, the AGS comes mated to the existing 1.3-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine that produces 89bhp/200Nm. In terms of features, the Vdi trim gets electric boot release, reverse parking sensors, all-four power windows and keyless entry system with central locking. The ZDi additionally offers multi-function steering wheel, automatic climate control, height adjustable driver seat, rear centre armrest with cup holders, instrument cluster with mood lighting and rear washer and wiper. The top-spec Vdi+ is available with cruise control, cooled glove box, auto headlamps and wipers, passive keyless entry with push start/stop button and a seven-inch SmartPlay infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Tata Nexon AMT
Unlike the Vitara Brezza, the Tata Nexon gets the AMT option in two trims - XMA and the top spec XZA+. Interestingly, AMT is available in both 1.2-litre petrol and 1.5-litre diesel engine options. Tata Motors introduced an automatic option in the mid-level XMA in July last year. Based on the XM manual variants of the Nexon, the automatics have the same exterior and interior features with the only major changes being the AMT badging and AMT specific instrument cluster. This being an AMT model, the car gets smart hill assist and crawl function. Similar to the manual version, the AMT version of the XZA+ variant continues to get touchscreen system, climate control, multi-drive modes, dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, split folding rear seats and even a wearable key which is a first in the segment.
Mahindra XUV300 AMT
Mahindra is yet to officially announce the prices for the AMT version of the XUV300. We have already driven the top spec W8 (O) AMT variant of the car and at the time of launch, we expect Mahindra to offer AMT in one lower spec trim as well. Visually, the only difference on the outside is the ‘autoSHIFT’ badge over the tailgate. The one tested by us had several segment-first features, which includes seven airbags, dual zone climate control with memory function, front parking sensors, heated mirrors, and disc brakes for all four wheels. Other noteworthy features include a sunroof, cruise control, push-button start, leather seats, hill hold function and a seven-inch infotainment system with smartphone mirroring tech and navigation.