The number of new cars available with manual gearboxes has dropped by 55% in the past six years, according to CarGurus, a leading automotive marketplace in the U.K. to shop, buy, and sell used vehicles.
CarGurus examined new car models from the past decade across the 30 most popular car brands in the UK (i). The study found that in 2024, only 89 new models come with manual gearboxes, down from 197 in 2016. Between 2014 and 2018, the number of manual options remained steady, but the decline has been consistent since 2018. From 2023 to 2024 alone, the number dropped by 18%, from 109 to 89. If this trend continues, manual gearboxes could disappear by 2029, except for a few niche models.
Several major carmakers, including Volvo, Mercedes, Jaguar, and Lexus, no longer offer any new models with manual gearboxes. Among the UK’s top 30 car brands (i), only Jeep, Land Rover, MINI, and Honda still offer a single manual model. Volkswagen offers the most manual options, with 10 models, while Ford and Hyundai each have six.
This decline in manual cars aligns with a sharp increase in UK drivers taking automatic-only driving tests. According to Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) data (ii), the number of automatic-only tests has surged by 269% over the past decade, from 87,844 in 2012/2013 to 324,064 in 2022/2023.
Interestingly, buyers who choose a used manual car could save money. CarGurus’ analysis shows that opting for a manual gearbox can save up to £3,466 compared to an automatic, depending on the model and features.
Chris Knapman, Editorial Director at CarGurus U.K., commented:
“Between the increasing consumer demand for cars with an automatic gearbox and the rapid expansion of new EV models coming to market, we could be approaching the end of the road for the manual gearbox.
“Historically, manual gearboxes have found favour for their lower cost compared to automatics, as well as their more responsive nature and improved fuel economy. However, updates in technology mean that many modern automatics are at least as efficient as a manual alternative, and much more responsive than the systems fitted in years gone by.
“It is likely that manual gearboxes will continue to hold a special place in the hearts of enthusiast drivers for the greater interaction they offer. And of course, manual cars will continue to be in strong supply on the used market in years to come. For those prepared to change gears themselves, opting for a manual car can also be a shrewd money-saving move, with our analysis showing prices for used models are up to £3,466 (14%) lower on average compared with an automatic.”
(i) Source: Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders
(ii) Source: Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency
Source www.cargurus.co.uk
