Why choose Automatic?

Written By Peter Scott

In 2023, 71% of new cars registered in the UK were automatic, while 29% were manual: 

Transmission

Percentage of new car registrations in 2023

Automatic

71%

Manual

29%

The popularity of automatic cars is growing in the UK, with automatic sales accounting for more than half of all new car sales. In 2011, less than 25% of new car registrations were automatic, but by 2021 that percentage had increased to 62.4%. 

Some reasons for the rise in popularity of automatic cars include: 

  • Safety: Automatic gearboxes can more easily integrate modern safety systems, such as autonomous emergency braking. 

  • Efficiency: Automatic transmissions are more efficient than manual transmissions, optimizing engine operation and reducing energy losses. 

  • Accessibility: Automatic cars can be more accessible for elderly and disabled drivers. 

Many car manufacturers no longer offer manual gearboxes on their models. For example, Mercedes, Genesis, Ferrari, Jaguar, Lexus, Maserati, Rolls-Royce, Subaru, and Volvo all only offer automatic gearboxes. 

Peter Scott
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