Percentage of New Cars with Manual Transmission

Introduction

Manual transmissions have been the standard for decades, but their popularity has been declining in recent years. In 2023, only 1.6% of new cars sold in the United States had a manual transmission. This is down from 10% in 2013 and 35% in 2003.

There are several factors that have contributed to the decline of manual transmissions. One is the increasing popularity of automatic transmissions, which are easier to drive and more fuel-efficient. Another factor is the rise of SUVs and trucks, which are typically not offered with manual transmissions.

Advantages of Manual Transmissions

Despite their declining popularity, manual transmissions offer several advantages over automatic transmissions. These advantages include:

• Better fuel efficiency. Manual transmissions are typically more fuel-efficient than automatic transmissions. This is because manual transmissions allow drivers to control the engine’s RPMs, which can be optimized for fuel efficiency.
• More control over the driving experience. Manual transmissions give drivers more control over the car’s performance. This can be beneficial for drivers who enjoy driving and want a more engaging experience.
• Less maintenance. Manual transmissions require less maintenance than automatic transmissions. This is because manual transmissions have fewer moving parts and are less complex.

Disadvantages of Manual Transmissions

Manual transmissions also have some disadvantages, including:

• More difficult to drive. Manual transmissions can be more difficult to drive than automatic transmissions, especially for new drivers. This is because manual transmissions require drivers to use the clutch pedal and shift the gears manually.
• Less convenient. Automatic transmissions are more convenient than manual transmissions. This is because automatic transmissions do not require drivers to shift gears or use the clutch pedal.
• Not available on all vehicles. Manual transmissions are not available on all vehicles. This is particularly true for SUVs and trucks.

Conclusion

Whether or not to buy a car with a manual transmission is a personal decision. There are both advantages and disadvantages to consider. If you are looking for a car that is fuel-efficient, more engaging to drive, and less expensive to maintain, then a manual transmission may be a good choice. However, if you are looking for a car that is easy to drive, convenient, and available on all vehicles, then an automatic transmission is probably a better choice.