Kia recently launched their mid-size SUV Seltos with an iMT or intelligent Manual Transmisison. The iMT variant is aimed towards the people who want the convenience of driving an automatic transmission but cannot afford it or they also like to take control of the gearbox while driving. The manufacturer has also released a new TVC for the Seltos iMT.

The video shows us the new generation of the Seltos in red colour with an iMT badging. The video also gives an easy explanation of the iMT gearbox. The video also shows paddle shifters mounted behind the steering wheel but those are available only if you opt for the 1.4-litre petrol engine with DCT gearbox or you get the diesel engine with automatic gearbox.

The intelligent Manual Gearbox is only offered with the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that too only in the HTK+ variant. In iMT the driver has to change the gears using the traditional 6-speed gearbox but the clutch is operated by a computer. So, the driver only has to operate the throttle and the brake through his feet.

The iMT is a boon in bumper to bumper traffic as the driver would not have to continuously modulate the clutch. Also, the iMT does not hamper the fuel efficiency much. Some people like to shift the gears themselves as they feel more connected. For these enthusiasts the iMT is also a good choice. As they get the convenience of driving an automatic transmission in traffic and when the driver wants to have a bit of fun, he can hold on to the revs because it is the driver who would need to change the gear.

The 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine produces 115 PS of max power and 144 Nm of peak torque. It comes mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox as standard and there is also a CVT automatic gearbox available. The CVT gearbox is offered only with HTX G whereas the iMT is available with the more affordable HTK+ variant. The price difference between the both variants is Rs. 2.15 lakhs.

The HTK+ variant with iMT comes with a decent equipment list. It comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, LED Daytime Running Lamps, projector fog lamps and a smart key with push button to start/stop. Moreover, Kia also offers cruise control, rear sunshades, LED Sound Mood lights, automatic climate control, remote engine start and electric sunroof.

There is also an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Both of which are wireless. There is also a rear view parking camera, rear wiper with washer and defogger. Also the outside rearview mirrors are auto folding with LED turn indicator mounted on them. The cabin also gets a beige theme if you opt for the iMT gearbox. The HTK+ variant is priced at Rs. 12.19 lakhs ex-showroom.

The base price of the Seltos is Rs. 9.89 lakhs ex-showroom while the top-end variant costs Rs. 17.34 lakhs ex-showroom. The Seltos goes against Hyundai Creta, Maruti Suzuki S-Cross, Mahindra Scorpio, MG Hector and Tata Harrier.