IS THE MANUAL GEARBOX DEAD?

As the popularity of the manual gearbox continues to fall, we explain why - and whether you should you still consider one over an automatic transmission

- Tom Jervis

THE manual gearbox could be on the verge of extinction, because exclusive new Auto Express data shows very few new cars on sale are now available with this kind of transmission. This mirrors continuously falling sales across the UK and ultimately limits drivers wanting to change gears themselves.

Our findings show that, at the time of writing, there are just 96 models being offered with a manual gearbox, as opposed to 404 models that are automatic-only, with the former representing just over 19 per cent of the overall market.

Compare this with just three years ago when almost a third of all models (including derivatives such as estates and coupés) were available with a manual transmission.

With the number of new manual cars available dwindling, there has been a significant impact on sales. In 2024, the UK’s Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders said just 22 per cent of new cars left the forecourt with a manual transmission. This follows the trend of an overall decline in the number of manual registrations over the past few years, with automatic sales having become the majority in 2020.

So why is the manual gearbox disappearing? There are several reasons, but mainly it comes down to customer demand and the rise of EVs. Firstly, many drivers simply prefer driving an automatic car; while enthusiasts typically favour the involving nature of changing gears themselves, taking this action out of the equation ultimately makes driving much more relaxing, which many motorists prefer.

Then there's the rise of electrified vehicles which, whether you're considering hybrids or full EVs, almost all operate as full automatics. As these begin to flood onto the used market, the UK car park will slowly but surely say goodbye to the manual transmission, with this type of gearbox left to the cheapest or most driver-focused vehicles on sale.