The decline of the manual gearbox isn’t just a trend; it’s a near-halving of availability in just five years. New data from CarGurus shows that in the UK, where manual transmissions once dominated the market, only 67 new car models still offer a stick shift in 2024, down from 82 in the previous year. This represents a dramatic drop from the over 80% share manuals held just a decade ago.
The Rise of Automatics and the Shift in Consumer Preference
The shift is driven by the growing dominance of automatic transmissions. Over 225 out of nearly 300 models now come exclusively with automatics. The trend is particularly pronounced in popular segments like SUVs, hybrids, and electric vehicles, where the complexity of the drivetrain makes manual options impractical.
Modern automatics offer several advantages: smoother operation, improved fuel efficiency, and convenience in stop-and-go traffic. Automakers also favor automatics because they are easier to program for optimal fuel economy during testing, a key metric for regulatory compliance.
Brands Abandoning Manuals
Several major automakers have already eliminated manual transmissions entirely from their UK lineups. Mini and Honda have joined brands like Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and Tesla in dropping manuals completely. This decision reflects a broader industry trend toward simplified, automated driving experiences.
The Enthusiast Niche and the Used Market
Despite the decline, some automakers continue to cater to enthusiasts. Models like the Mazda MX-5 and Porsche 911 GT3 still offer manual options, though often at higher price points. Affordable hatches and crossovers remain a viable option for manual fans as well.
For those unwilling to compromise, the used car market remains a strong alternative. As Chris Knapman, CarGurus UK Editorial Director, notes, “Over the past decade, the number of new manuals has more than halved. But for drivers who still value the engagement and control of a traditional gearbox, the used market still offers a wide variety of options.”
The disappearance of the manual gearbox is a clear signal of changing automotive priorities. While it doesn’t spell immediate extinction, it does mean that for many drivers, the choice to row your own will soon be limited to the used car market.
