By Classic Yorkshire contributor Tony Lofthouse
Are we about to see the end of the manual-powered car?
According to new Auto Express data just 96 models are now sold with manual transmission, compared with 404 models that are automatic-only.
That’s just 19% of all new cars made with a gearstick in the UK!
This compares with three years ago when nearly one-third of all new cars were being offered with a manual gearbox.
In fact, ‘automatic’ sales became the majority in 2020 and in 2021 this figure rose to 62%.
So why are manual sales struggling? It seems these days many drivers prefer the ease of driving an automatic, even though they are pricier to buy than a manual car.
The influx of electrified and hybrid models in the marketplace is, no doubt a key factor as many manufacturers are restricting the choice for buyers. Big sellers like the Mini, Ford Fiesta and Honda Jazz are no longer available as manual transmission.
Equally, premium brands like Mercedes, Volvo and Lexus have now gone auto-only.
The phasing out of new petrol and diesel cars by 2030 (new hybrids by 2035) is also a key factor.
At the learner end, more and more young people are choosing to take an automatic driving test. According to the AA Driving School, one in five young learners took and passed their practical test in an automatic in 2024.
These are seismic changes but I do wonder if this could benefit the classic car buyers which is well stocked with manual models.
A modern automatic might feel relaxing to ride but where’s the fun? Personally, I still want the ‘tactile’ pleasure of going through the gears and feeling that control and enjoyment of my ageing motor with a gearstick.
For me there’s no contest – manual is the winner.
There is the explanation from driving instructors that electric cars and auto hybrids will totally take over so there’s little point in learning about gear-levers. Also the young folk are charged so much for insurance on older cars that it’s worth them buying a new car with insurance included and new cars are so predominantly auto.
I’m with you on that sentiment. I know that automatic gearboxes are so much better in the way they handle road conditions than previously, but you lose a little control.
Couldn’t imagine anything other than an auto for my daily. For many years the BMW auto box has been much clever than my brain.