Manual Gearboxes on the Brink of Extinction as Only 67 Models Remain
Manual gearboxes are slowly dying out in the automotive world, according to fresh research that highlights a dramatic decline in their availability. A popular car feature cherished by driving enthusiasts is now on the brink of extinction as millions of drivers transition away from petrol and diesel vehicles.
New data reveals that only 67 models from the UK's top 30 manufacturers currently offer a manual transmission. This represents a staggering 66 per cent decrease compared to a decade ago, when 197 models were available with manual gearboxes.
Sharp Decline in Manual Transmission Options
The research shows that out of 292 vehicles sold by leading manufacturers, just 67 come with manual gearboxes. In contrast, 225 models are now offered exclusively with automatic transmissions, reflecting a significant shift in consumer preferences and industry trends.
Eight major manufacturers have completely abandoned manual transmissions, including Fiat, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Land Rover, Volvo, Tesla, Mini, and Lexus. This concentration of automatic vehicles continues to rise, reshaping the automotive landscape.
Expert Insight on the Changing Market
Chris Knapman, editorial director of CarGurus UK, commented on the findings. "From compact hatchbacks to sporty coupes, enthusiasts can still find vehicles that deliver the connection and enjoyment of a manual," he said.
"Our research highlights that while new manual cars are declining, there has never been a better time to explore the used market for those seeking this driving experience."
Current Models Offering Manual Gearboxes
Despite the overall decline, several manufacturers still provide manual transmission options across various vehicle segments. The following list includes models from the UK's top 30 brands that currently offer manual gearboxes:
- Audi: A1, A3, Q2
- BMW: M2
- Citroen: Berlingo, C3, C3 Aircross
- Cupra: Formentor, Leon
- Dacia: Duster, Jogger, Sandero, Sandero Stepway, Bigster
- Ford: Puma, Kuga, Tourneo Custom, Tourneo Courier, Mustang, Ranger
- Hyundai: Bayon, i10, i20, Kona, Tucson
- Jeep: Avenger
- Kia: K4, Picanto, Sportage, Stonic, XCeed
- Mazda: CX-30, CX-5, MAZDA3, MX-5
- MG: MG3, HS, ZS
- Nissan: Juke, Qashqai
- Peugeot: 208, 2008
- Porsche: 911
- Renault: Clio, Captur
- Seat: Arona, Ibiza, Leon, Ateca
- Skoda: Fabia, Kamiq, Karoq, Octavia, Scala
- Suzuki: S-Cross, Swift, Vitara
- Toyota: GR Yaris, Hilux
- Vauxhall: Astra, Corsa, Mokka
- Volkswagen: Polo, Golf, Taigo, T-Cross, Transporter
This comprehensive list demonstrates that while manual transmissions are becoming increasingly rare, they still exist across a diverse range of vehicle types, from economical hatchbacks to performance-oriented models.
