Easy of travelling. That's become the mantra of people buying cars in today's day and they aren't wrong. It's difficult to keep one's patience in traffic conditions of today and things are not going to get any better. This is one reason why cars with automatic transmission have started to become the need of the hour. The demand has been met with a sharp rise in supply as well and manufacturers like Tata Motors, Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai and even Renault have answered to the needs of its customers. Of course making cars with automatic transmission affordable has seen innovation take centre stage which is why we see the automated manual transmission take the spotlight. Maruti Suzuki, Datsun, Renault, Tata Motors and even Mahindra have resorted to adopting this technology so as to offer an automatic transmission variant in the company's line-up.

1- Maruti Suzuki Wagon R

The latest-gen Wagon R is available with two petrol engine options – a 68hp, 1.0-litre, and an 83hp, 1.2-litre. Both engines get the convenience of an AMT, though it’s the larger engine that delivers the stronger performance and is the one to buy. The AMT is also pretty smooth with shifts happening in a timely manner. Do note, as spacious, practical and easy-to-drive the Maruti Suzuki Wagon R is, it’s not an ideal highway car.

2- Tata Tiago

The AMT adds a dose of convenience to the already likable Tata Tiago. Like rivals, a manual mode and a creep function are standard, though there’s also a ‘Sport’ mode that helps performance to some degree. Sure, the Tata AMT system isn’t the slickest around but the Tiago’s cabin space, big car demeanour, and genuine value make it a great choice for automatic buyers on a budget. Tata also recently updated the model with more safety kit and added a top-spec Tiago XZA+ automatic variant that is loaded with kit but exceeds the Rs 6 lakh mark.

3- Hyundai Santro

The Santro is the first Hyundai to come with an AMT gearbox. The transmission is smooth and refined, with minimal pauses between gearshifts. There’s also a Tiptronic mode on offer to shift gears manually. The budget hatchback has a spacious cabin and comes loaded with kit. However, the Hyundai Santro AMT is pricier than its rivals and the cost-cutting measures are a bit too evident in some areas.

4- Maruti Suzuki Celerio

The Celerio popularised AMT gearboxes in India. The unit has been refined over the years and, today, it is relatively smooth-shifting and its creep function works reasonably well. The fuel economy from the 68hp, 1.0-litre petrol engine is another plus point. Of the other things, the Maruti Celerio’s cabin space is a highlight but the interior lacks features that are offered on other affordable models.

5- Renault Kwid

If you’re on a very tight budget but still want an automatic, the Renault Kwid is a good buy. Some may not like the rotary dial for the AMT and the lack of a manual mode, but the system works well enough with the 68hp, 1.0-litre engine. The addition of a creep mode has also helped the experience in town. Drivers will also appreciate the addition of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality to the touchscreen.