Lyla Lindsey
The number of manual cars on Australian roads is dwindling, with automatic transmissions now accounting for the vast majority of vehicles in the country. This shift away from manual cars is not unique to Australia, but it is particularly pronounced in this country and the US. In Australia, fewer than 4% of new cars have a manual transmission, and less than 5% of car sales are manuals. This trend is likely due to the increasing popularity of automatic transmissions, which offer improved drivability, automation, and ride smoothness compared to manual options.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of automatic cars for sale | 170,000 |
| Number of manual cars for sale | 55,000 |
| Percentage of new cars with manual transmission | Less than 4% |
| Number of second-hand cars with manual transmission | 5.2% |
| Number of car sales that are manual | Less than 5% |
| Most available manual transmission variants | Mazda |
| Second most available manual transmission variants | Porsche |
| Third most available manual transmission variants | Nissan |
| Fourth most available manual transmission variants | Mini |
| Most popular segment to offer a manual transmission | Utes and vans |
| Least popular segment to offer a manual transmission | Wagons and sedans |
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What You'll Learn
Manual cars are a rare breed in Australia
In the present day, fewer than 4% of new cars in Australia have a manual transmission, which equates to around 40,000 vehicles. This trend is also reflected in the secondhand car market, where only 5.2% of listings are for manual cars. The situation is quite different in other parts of the world, such as Europe, where manual cars still accounted for 32% of the new car market in 2023, and in Asia, Latin America, and South Africa, where manuals also hold a significant share.
There are several reasons why manual cars are becoming less common in Australia. Firstly, automatic transmissions have improved drastically in terms of drivability, automation, and ride smoothness. They are also less likely to fail due to wear and tear and are easier to integrate with modern safety systems. Additionally, many modern autos are designed with more gears, leading to better fuel efficiency than their manual counterparts.
However, some drivers still prefer manuals for the sense of engagement and control they offer. Manuals can be more fun to drive, especially on hilly or twisty roads, and provide a sense of mastery over the vehicle. They are also generally cheaper to buy, run, and maintain, and some argue that they are less likely to be stolen as most car thieves cannot drive a manual.
Despite the clear preference for automatics in Australia, there are still a few makes and models that offer manual options, including the Subaru WRX, Suzuki Jimny, and Nissan Z. Additionally, Porsche stands out as one of the few manufacturers offering a manual version for each of its core sports car models, excluding the Panamera, Cayenne, and Macan SUVs.
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Autos are overtaking manuals
There are several reasons for this change. Firstly, technology has improved, and automatic transmissions are now extremely good in terms of drivability, automation, and smoothness of ride. They are also less likely to fail due to wear and easier to integrate with other systems like cruise control and safety features. This is a stark contrast to 15+ years ago when autos were average, with fewer gears and lower efficiency.
Another factor is the availability of cars with manual transmissions. It's becoming harder to find manual cars, with fewer options available each year. Manufacturers are offering fewer manual variants, and some, like Mercedes-Benz, have stopped providing manual transmissions for passenger vehicles. Additionally, manual cars are no longer an option for many vehicle types, such as soft-roaders, 4x4 wagons, and sedans.
The shift towards automatic transmissions is also influenced by the way people learn to drive. With most parents driving automatics, their children are more likely to learn on automatic cars. This contributes to the decreasing popularity of manual transmissions among younger generations.
While some people prefer the engagement and involvement of driving a manual car, the convenience, comfort, and improved technology of automatic cars have made them the preferred choice for most Australians. This trend is expected to continue, with one source predicting that manual car sales could eventually drop to 0%.
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Manual cars are fun to drive
In Australia, automatic cars are more common than manual cars. Fewer than 4% of new cars have a manual transmission, and only 5.2% of second-hand cars listed have manual transmissions. This is in contrast to Europe, where 32% of the new car market is made up of manual cars, and Latin America and South Africa, where manuals make up nearly 30% of the car market.
Despite the decline in manual cars in Australia, some people still prefer to drive them. One reason for this is the fun and engagement that driving a manual car can offer. Driving a manual car can be enjoyable because it provides a sense of control, especially on hilly or twisty roads. It can also be a rewarding challenge to master the skill of driving a manual, and many people find pleasure in the physical act of shifting gears.
Manual cars offer a level of engagement and involvement with the vehicle that some drivers appreciate. The process of manually shifting gears can be satisfying and provide a sense of connection to the car's behaviour. This can be particularly enjoyable for sports car enthusiasts or those seeking a more interactive driving experience.
Additionally, manual cars can offer greater control in certain situations. For example, some drivers prefer the ability to control their acceleration speed and torque by short-shifting in a manual transmission. This level of control can enhance the driving experience, especially for those who enjoy feeling involved in the mechanics of their vehicle.
Manual cars also have some practical advantages. Historically, they have been cheaper to buy, run, and maintain. They are also lighter due to their simpler engines compared to modern automatic transmissions. Manual cars are also less likely to be stolen, as car thieves often lack the skill to drive them.
While manual cars can be less convenient in heavy stop-and-go traffic, many drivers still enjoy the overall experience of driving a manual. It ultimately comes down to personal preference, and some individuals prefer the fun, engagement, and control offered by manual transmissions.
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Automatic cars are more comfortable
In Australia, the number of automatic cars on the road has been increasing over the years. Fewer than 4% of new cars now have a manual transmission in the country. Automatic cars are also more comfortable than manual cars. They are easier to drive, especially in cities, as you don't have to shift gears or use a clutch pedal. This makes driving in congested areas much less stressful and also removes the risk of pains in your left leg or ankle from using the clutch. Automatic cars are also safer as you can keep both hands on the wheel and concentrate on the road ahead. They are also more accessible to people with disabilities or limited mobility. For example, people with hip, knee, ankle, or foot injuries can drive an automatic car with just one leg.
Additionally, automatic cars offer a more relaxing driving experience on motorways, as they have more gears than manual cars, leading to smoother and quieter cruises. They are also generally less likely to fail due to wear and are easier to integrate with other systems like cruise control and certain safety features. With the rise in popularity of electric and hybrid vehicles, which are effectively automatic, it is anticipated that manual cars could disappear from the roads in some countries.
However, some people still prefer manual cars as they give the driver more control over the vehicle and are considered more fun to drive. Manual cars have traditionally been cheaper to buy, run, and maintain due to their simpler engine design. They are also lighter and less likely to be stolen since car thieves often cannot drive a manual.
Overall, while manual cars offer certain advantages, automatic cars are more comfortable and accessible, especially for urban driving and individuals with disabilities or limited mobility.
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Manual cars are cheaper to buy and maintain
In Australia, automatic cars are becoming increasingly popular, with fewer than 4% of new cars having a manual transmission. This shift towards automatic cars is also reflected in other countries like the US. However, there are still some advantages to choosing a manual car, especially when it comes to cost.
Manual cars have historically been cheaper to buy, run and maintain. They tend to be lighter due to their simpler engines compared to modern automatic transmissions. The maintenance and repair costs of manual cars are generally lower than those of automatic cars. Manual transmissions are easier to work on and typically only require clutch replacement, which can cost around $500 to $1500. In contrast, repairs and maintenance for automatic transmissions can be more complex and expensive, with costs ranging from $2000 to $3000 for a rebuild.
The choice between a manual and automatic car depends on various factors, including personal preference, driving conditions, and cost. While manual cars offer a fun and engaging driving experience, they may not be as comfortable for commuting, especially in heavy traffic. On the other hand, automatic cars provide a smoother and more comfortable driving experience, making them ideal for urban environments with frequent stops and starts.
Additionally, manual cars offer greater control and can be advantageous in certain situations, such as hilly or twisty roads. They also provide a sense of skill and accomplishment for those who enjoy the process of driving and the challenge of mastering a manual transmission. However, learning to drive a manual car can be more challenging, and it may be harder to find manual cars for new drivers to practice on.
Ultimately, the decision between a manual and automatic car in Australia depends on individual preferences, driving needs, and budget considerations. While automatic cars are gaining popularity, manual cars offer their own unique benefits, including lower purchase and maintenance costs.
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Frequently asked questions
There are more automatic cars in Australia. Fewer than 4% of new cars have a manual transmission in Australia.
Automatic transmissions are generally far superior in terms of drivability, automation, and smoothness of ride. They are also less likely to fail due to wear and are easier to integrate with other systems like cruise control and safety features.
Yes, while manual transmissions are becoming rarer, some car manufacturers still offer them. This includes Porsche, which offers a manual version for each of its core sports car models, and Mazda, which offers the most available manual transmission variants. Other manufacturers that offer manual transmissions include Nissan, Mini, and Mercedes-Benz for its Vito commercial van.
