Auto Model

Auto Model is a smart model routing system that automatically selects the optimal AI model based on the Kilo Code mode you're using. It comes in multiple tiers so you can balance cost and capability to fit your needs.

How It Works

1. Select an Auto Model tier (e.g. kilo-auto/frontier) in the model dropdown
2. Start working in any mode (Code, Architect, Debug, etc.)
3. The system automatically routes your requests to the best model for that task

That's it. No configuration needed.

Auto Frontier

kilo-auto/frontier routes to the latest and most capable paid models available, optimizing for performance, capability, and cost.

Mode-to-Model Mapping

Planning and reasoning tasks use Claude Opus 4.6, which excels at complex reasoning, architectural decisions, and breaking down problems.

Implementation tasks use Claude Sonnet 4.6, which is optimized for fast, accurate code generation and editing.

Auto Balanced

kilo-auto/balanced follows the same mode-based routing structure as Frontier but uses more cost-effective models — Kimi K2.5 for reasoning-heavy modes and Minimax M2.5 (Free) for implementation modes.

Mode-to-Model Mapping

Planning and reasoning tasks use Kimi K2.5, a strong open-weight reasoning model from Moonshot AI.

Implementation tasks use Minimax M2.5, which provides fast, capable code generation at a fraction of frontier model costs.

Benefits

Simplified Setup

No need to manually switch models when changing modes. Auto Model handles the routing transparently in the background.

Cost Optimization

Uses the more economical models for implementation tasks where speed matters, while reserving stronger reasoning models for planning tasks. You get optimal cost-to-capability ratio without thinking about it.

Best-in-Class Models

Auto Model routes to capable models matched to your task:

• Auto Frontier uses the latest and most effective models across all modes
• Auto Balanced uses more cost-effective models while still providing strong capabilities
• Auto Free uses the best available free models

Requirements

Getting Started

1. Open Kilo Code in VS Code or JetBrains
2. Click the model selector dropdown
3. Choose an Auto Model such as kilo-auto/frontier or kilo-auto/balanced
4. Start chatting - the right model is selected automatically based on your current mode

When to Use Auto Model

Auto Model is ideal for:

• Developers who frequently switch between planning and coding - No need to remember which model works best for each task
• Teams wanting consistent model selection - Everyone gets optimal routing without individual configuration
• Cost-conscious developers - Automatically balances cost and capability
• New Kilo Code users - Great defaults without needing to understand model differences

When to Use a Specific Model

You may want to select a specific model instead when:

• Cost is not a factor for a particular task
• You need a particular model's unique capabilities (e.g., very long context windows)
• You're working with a specialized provider or local model
• You want full control over model selection

Feedback

Related

• Model Selection Guide - General guidance on choosing models
• Using Modes - Learn about different Kilo Code modes
• Free & Budget Models - Cost-effective alternatives