Rumour: Maruti Celerio ZXi to get AMT

Maruti Suzuki created quite a stir when it launched the Celerio hatchback with an automated manual transmission (AMT) in February 2014. The gearbox, which was seen for the first time in a production car in India, did not need a clutch to be depressed and made the car relatively stress-free to drive, particularly in traffic. The car's popularity was such that it commanded a waiting list of eight months at one time.

However, the AMT gearbox has been available only in the LXi (low-end) and VXi (mid) variants of the car. Those who opted for the top-end ZXi trim level, have had to make do with the 5-speed manual transmission. Now though, Maruti is rumoured to be gearing up to put the AMT gearbox in the ZXi.

The ZXi variant comes with features such as front fog lamps, body-coloured door handles, body-coloured door mirrors with integrated turn-indicators, audio system with, USB, Aux-in and Bluetooth connectivity, audio controls mounted on the steering wheel, electrically adjustable door mirrors and keyless entry. It gets safety features like front airbags and ABS.

The ZXi with AMT (or Auto Gear Shift as Maruti Suzuki calls it), is likely to be launched in April. Production of the car has begun.

Source: Gaadiwaadi / Twitter