Best Paddle Shift Cars in India - How do paddle shifters in car work?

Ever wanted to have the feel of a Formula 1 car but in the comfort of a road-legal SUV or sedan? Then automatic cars with paddle shifters are just what you need. Cars with paddle shifters offer the convenience of an automatic transmission with the added engagement and the control one enjoys when using a manual gearbox.

From top-end sports cars to your friendly neighbourhood SUV, the paddle shift cars have come a long way. We list the most affordable and practical new and used automatic cars in India with paddle shifters to find the one which best suits your needs.

How do Paddle Shifters work in an Automatic Car?

Paddle shifters in automatic cars allow drivers to manually control gear shifts without using a clutch. Located behind the steering wheel, these paddles are typically marked with “+” for upshifts and “−” for downshifts. In some cars, paddles can be used directly in Drive mode, while others require switching to Manual mode.

When a paddle is pressed, it sends an electronic signal to the transmission control unit (TCU), which executes the gear change. The TCU ensures that shifts happen smoothly and within safe RPM limits, preventing engine damage. The primary benefits of paddle shifters include greater control over gear selection, improved driving engagement, and enhanced performance, especially during spirited driving or steep descents. 

Advantages of Paddle Shifters in Automatic Cars

While modern automatics handle gear selection efficiently, paddle shifters give drivers the option to take control when needed. This can be useful in several scenarios:

• Uphill and downhill driving: Manually selecting a lower gear provides better torque while climbing and stronger engine braking while descending, reducing strain on the brakes.
• Slippery surfaces: Starting in second gear instead of first helps limit wheel spin and improves traction.
• Overtaking: A quick downshift using paddles delivers instant acceleration for safer and faster passes.
• Driving enjoyment: Enthusiasts value the added control paddles provide, allowing them to engage gears manually and extract more performance from the car.

List of Best Paddle Shift Cars in India

1. Hyundai Exter | ₹ 8.90 lakh onwards

In India, the cheapest car with paddle shifters is the Hyundai Exter. The compact SUV comes with a 1.2-liter, four-cylinder engine available with a manual or a 5-speed AMT gearbox. The AMT variants of the Exter feature paddle shifters behind the steering wheel that allow the driver to manually change gears easily even with an automatic transmission. The Exter’s petrol engine is extremely refined and offers 81.8 bhp and 113 Nm of torque that allows for smooth and linear acceleration. Using the paddle shifters gives the driver better control and while making the Exter easier to drive. The Exter AMT is fairly efficient as it returns 19.2 kmpl in fuel economy. Brand new Exter AMT models are available in 11 variants, starting at ₹ 8.9 lakh, however, used Hyundai Exter compact SUVs are also available for sale.

Key Specifications

2. Honda Amaze | ₹ 9.20 lakh onwards 

The Honda Amaze is Honda’s most budget-friendly sedan in India, and it surprises you with paddle shifters right from its V variant. However, this feature is exclusive to models equipped with the 7-step CVT (continuously variable transmission). Under the hood, you get a 1.2-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 90 PS and 110 Nm of torque. You can pair it with either a 5-speed manual or the CVT automatic, depending on your preference.

Interestingly, the previous-generation Amaze is still on sale alongside the current model. It also offers paddle shifters In its VX CVT trim,

Honda Amaze Key Specifications

3. Hyundai i20 N Line | ₹ 11.10 lakh onwards

The performance-oriented Hyundai i20 N Line is the most affordable hatchback with paddle shifters in India. While the standard i20 uses a 1.2-liter four-cylinder engine, the N Line is powered by a turbocharged 1.0-liter, 3-cylinder engine that packs an impressive 118 bhp and 172 Nm. To tame the extra performance, the i20 N Line offers paddle shifters to give the driver manual control of the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. With a revised suspension tune, superb steering feel, and a potent turbo-petrol engine, the i20 N Line is extremely engaging to drive. The standard i20 is sold in five different variants, while the N Line is available as the N6 and N8 variants with prices starting from ₹ 11.10 lakh, but used Hyundai i20 hatchbacks are available at affordable prices.

Key Specifications

4. Tata Punch EV | ₹ 11.14 lakh onwards

The Tata Punch EV is the most affordable electric car in India to offer paddle shifters. But unlike petrol or diesel cars, where you use them to shift gears, here the paddles let you adjust the battery regeneration levels. You get this feature starting from the Smart Plus variant, which comes with a 25 kWh battery pack paired to a front-mounted electric motor. This setup delivers 80 bhp and 114 Nm, along with a claimed range of 265 km. There’s also a larger 35 kWh battery option. It powers a stronger motor that puts out 120 bhp and 190 Nm, giving you a longer claimed range of 365 km.

Tata Punch EV key specifications:

5. Maruti Suzuki Ertiga | ₹ 11.23 lakh onwards

The Maruti Suzuki Ertiga is the cheapest MUV available with a set of paddle shifters. Maruti Suzuki’s bestseller packs a 1.5-litre four-cylinder mild-hybrid petrol engine with 101.6 bhp and 136.8 Nm sent through a 6-speed automatic with paddle-shift controls on the steering wheel. The Ertiga is also the most affordable seven-seat car with paddle shifters in India, adding to its versatility and practicality. The Ertiga is also available with a pair of CNG variants but those are restricted to a 5-speed manual transmission. There are four variants on offer, but the AT variants of the Ertiga start from ₹11.23 lakh. There are several options for used Maruti Suzuki Ertiga cars at more affordable prices.

Key Specifications

6. Maruti Suzuki Fronx | ₹ 11.96 lakh onwards

The Maruti Suzuki Fronx is an exciting compact SUV from the premium Nexa line. The sub-four-metre crossover is offered with a 1.2-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine or with a more powerful 1.0-litre “BoosterJet” turbo-petrol engine which makes 98.6 bhp and 147.6 Nm of torque. The engine’s performance is handled by a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, apart from the standard manual transmission, which makes for engaging performance that matches its styling. The Fronx is equipped with distinct LED light elements and a lot of new-age features and modern connectivity that lets it stand out of the crowd in the compact SUV space. Check out used Maruti Suzuki cars on CARS24.

Key Specifications

7. Kia Sonet | ₹ 12.36 lakh onwards

The Kia Sonet is a standout compact SUV in its segment and offers a plethora of engine options, including a 1.2-litre four-cylinder petrol, a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol and even a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine. The 1.0 turbo-petrol produces 118 bhp and 172 and has a 7-speed DCT with paddle-shifters putting the control of that power in the driver’s hands. The Sonet is also the only diesel-powered compact SUV on sale with a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission and this too gets paddle shifters.The Sonet was Kia’s second model in the Indian market, first introduced in September, 2020. Kia updated the Sonet with a facelift and the manufacturer sells around 9,000 units every month. Prices for the automatic models with paddle shifters start from ₹ 12.36 lakh, but used Kia Sonet are available at more affordable prices.

Key Specifications

8. Honda Elevate | ₹ 13.71 lakh onwards

The Honda Elevate is a mid-size SUVs which comes from the legendary Japanese brand that also gave India its first paddle shift car, the Civic. The Honda Elevate follows the tradition of pairing a powerful and smooth i-VTEC petrol engine with a smooth transmission. The Elevate’s 1.5-litre four cylinder engine makes 119 hp and 145 Nm, mated to a manual transmission as well as a continuously variable transmission (CVT) automatic offering paddle shifters with a 7-step program. The Honda Elevate starts from ₹ 13.71 lakh with the automatic transmission option. Look for more quality used Honda cars on CARS24.

Key Specifications

9. Skoda Kushaq/Volkswagen Taigun | ₹ 13.49 lakh onwards

Two SUVs that are cut from the same cloth are the Skoda Kushaq and the Volkswagen Taigun. The premium brands have the VW Group’s 1.0 TSI three-cylinder turbo-petrol with 113 bhp and 178 Nm or the option of a more powerful 1.5 TSI four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine with 147 bhp and 250 Nm. The 1.0 TSI has a choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transmission, whereas the 1.5 TSI gets a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DCT automatic. Both the 1.0 TSI 6-speed manual and 1.5 TSI’s 7-speed DCT get paddle shifters on the steering wheel to add to the fun-to-drive nature. The Taigun and Kushaq have earned a five-star GNCAP safety rating for both adult and child occupant protection making them among the safest cars on sale. Prices for the automatic versions start from ₹ 13.49 lakh. You may find more affordable options when you look for used Volkswagen cars on CARS24.

Key Specifications

10. Hyundai Verna | ₹ 14.33 lakh onwards

The Hyundai Verna has one of the smoothest pairings of a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with 113 bhp and 144 Nm, and a continuously variable transmission, badged as an ‘IVT’. There is a more powerful turbo petrol engine with 158 bhp and 253 Nm, with a 7-speed DCT. Both these combinations have paddle shifters to put control of the transmission at the driver’s fingertips. The Hyundai Verna is also one of the most affordable cars offering an ADAS safety suite. Prices for the automatic Verna models with paddle shifters start from ₹ 14.33 lakh. For a fraction of that amount however, you can find a used Hyundai Verna on CARS24.

Key Specifications

11. Hyundai Creta | ₹ 14.37 lakh onwards

The Hyundai Creta has been a runaway success in the compact SUV space, and for a good reason. It was the first SUV in its segment to bring paddle shifters to the table. You’ll find them in the all the automatic variants of the Creta, regardless f whether you choose the standard NA petrol, turbo petrol or the diesel. The Creta EX (O) IVT is the cheapest variant of the Hyundai Creta to offer paddle shifters currently, starting from ₹14.37 lakh (ex-showroom).

Step inside, and the Creta continues to impress. You’re welcomed by a sleek interior that features a fully digital instrument cluster, a modern infotainment system, and several other premium touches and convenience  features depending upon the trim you choose.

Hyundai Creta Key Specifications

12. Kia Carens | ₹ 16.31 lakh onwards

The Kia Carens is the only diesel-automatic MUV with paddle shifters with an attractive price tag. The Carens packs a 1.5-litre turbo-diesel engine with 114 bhp and 250 Nm, with a 6-speed torque converter automatic which features paddle-shifters. While the base petrol engine is only available with a manual, the 158 hp, 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine is available with a 7-speed DCT which does feature paddle shifters. The Carens automatic models start from ₹16.3 lakh but you can check out used Kia Carens models for sale on CARS24 for some great deals.

Key Specifications

Conclusion

Paddle shift cars in India are of several kinds and literally of many shapes and sizes. While cars with paddle shifters add to the element of fun and driver engagement, they are essentially automatic cars with a manual mode available at the driver’s fingertips. The larger the car and engine, the heavier it will be on the pocket, but a higher price tag also usually means more features. There are many choices on offer and we hope you find one that resonates with your style.