Automatic SUVs have become more accessible, with automakers offering automatic gearboxes in smaller and more affordable models. This change makes them a practical option for buyers, especially in urban traffic conditions. Entry-level and compact SUVs now combine utility features, space and convenience with ground clearance for everyday use. Buyers can choose from a variety of transmission types, including AMT, CVT and other options, with models available in a wide price range. In this article, let’s take a look at the top five most affordable SUVs with automatic gearbox. Nissan Magneto AMT The first SUV on the list is the Nissan Magnite AMT, priced at Rs 6.2 lakh (ex-showroom). Equipped with an AMT gearbox, the Magneto is powered by a 1.0-litre NA petrol with 72hp power and 96Nm of torque. There is also a more powerful 1.0-litre turbo petrol with 100hp of power and 160Nm of torque. A 5-speed manual gearbox is standard on both. The turbo petrol engine gets a CVT option. In terms of features, the top-spec Magneti gets LED headlights, DRL, fog lamps, LED tail lamps, 16-inch alloy wheels, 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, rear AC vent, automatic climate charge, cameraless charge, 30-30-30, 30-30, 30-30, 30, 30, 20,000 are accessible. 7.0-inch digital instrument, auto-dimming IRVM, Type-C charging ports and more. In terms of safety, it gets six airbags for all seats, ESC, three-point seat belts and seat belt reminder as standard. Hyundai Exeter facelift Next is the recently launched Hyundai Exter facelift, priced from Rs 6.9 lakh (ex-showroom) for the HX3 AMT. The Exter AMT is powered by a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with 83 hp of power and 114 nm of torque. A CNG variant is also available with a dual-cylinder setup, now with an underbody-mounted spare wheel as standard, offering 225 liters of boot space.The 2026 Hyundai Exter gets exterior updates, including a wider front fascia, revised bumper and a new black radiator grille. It also gets new 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. At the rear, the SUV gets a redesigned tailgate, updated C-pillar garnish and a wing-type spoiler as part of the styling changes. Moving inside, the overall layout remains the same, but now features a dual-tone navy and gray cabin theme and a 3D carbon pattern dashboard finish. It also features a de-cut steering wheel, metal pedals, new seat upholstery and a folding driver’s armrest. Driver seat height adjustment and adjustable rear headrests are now standard across variants. The petrol version continues to offer 391 liters of boot space.Renault Kager The next SUV on the list is the Magnite’s cousin, the Renault Kiger AMT, priced at Rs 6.95 lakh for the Evolution AMT trim. Equipped with an AMT gearbox, the Kiger is powered by a 1.0-litre NA petrol engine with 72hp of power and 96Nm of torque. There is also a more powerful 1.0-litre turbo petrol with 100hp of power and 160Nm of torque. A 5-speed manual gearbox is standard on both. The turbo petrol engine gets a CVT option. The top-spec Kegger features an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, rear AC vents, leather seats, ventilated front seats, digital instrument cluster, auto climate control, multi-view camera, wireless charger, three automatic drives with cruise head wiper control, cruise mode. Variable steering weight, overall better NVH levels, 6-speaker audio system with 3D Arkamys and more. Safety features include six airbags, ESP, tire pressure monitor, hill start assist, ISOFIX mounts, 3-point seat belts and more.Tata Punch facelift Next is the recently launched Tata Punch facelift, priced from Rs 7.55 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Pure Plus AMT trim. The Punch AMT is powered by a 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 88 PS and 115 Nm of torque. There is also a new 1.2-litre, 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that produces 120 PS of power and 170 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual.In terms of features, it gets a freestanding 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a two-spoke steering wheel with illuminated elements. Below that are touch-based air conditioning controls, with toggles to adjust fan speed and temperature. Other features include a digital instrument cluster, single-pane sunroof, automatic climate control, premium sound system, cruise control, push-button start/stop and more. On the safety front, the 2026 Tata Punch gets six airbags, ESC, ABS, TPMS, a 360-degree camera, reverse parking sensor, and more.MARUTI SUZUKI FRONX AMT The fifth SUV on the list is the Maruti Suzuki Fronx AMT, priced from Rs 8.2 lakh (ex-showroom) for the Delta AMT trim. The Fronx AMT is powered by a 1.2-litre NA petrol engine with 89 bhp of power and 113 Nm of torque. There is also a 1.0-litre Boosterjet turbocharged petrol engine with 100 bhp of power and 148 Nm of torque. Gearbox options include a 5-speed manual and a 6-speed automatic.Features include a freestanding 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Other features include automatic LED headlamps with DRLs, wireless charging, automatic climate control, connected car tech, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Arkamys-tuned sound system, cruise control, height-adjustable driver’s seat, rear AC vent, auto-dimming IRVM, HUD-up display, camera A663, HUD-up-63 with EBD, and ESP with hill hold assist.
