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When choosing your first car or deciding what kind of vehicle to learn in, there are plenty of factors to consider. How big should it be? Which manufacturers do you trust? What shade of blue best suits your cool and composed personality? While these are all fun decisions, the first question to answer is: manual or automatic?

The Difference

When people talk about manual and automatic, they’re referring to the type of transmission a car uses. The transmission connects the engine to the wheels and controls speed and power. It might not sound thrilling, but this choice can have a big impact on your driving experience.

Manual Transmission

In a manual car, the driver uses the clutch to select the appropriate gear and connect the transmission to the engine. Gears typically range from 1 to 5 (or 6 in some vehicles). First gear is for low speeds, while higher gears are used as the car gains speed.

Automatic Transmission

Automatic cars usually rely on a system called a torque converter, though other types of automatic transmission are becoming popular. These systems change gears for you, so there’s no need for a clutch. Most automatics come with gear options like P (Park), R (Reverse), N (Neutral), D (Drive), and sometimes S (Sport). Some models also include an L (Low) setting for staying in lower gears.

The Driving Experience

Manual

• Passing your test in a manual car means you’re legally allowed to drive both manual and automatic vehicles, giving you more flexibility in the future.
• Many drivers enjoy the greater control and more interactive experience a manual car provides.
• Learning to coordinate your limbs for clutch control and gear changes can be challenging.
• In heavy traffic, constant clutch control and gear changes can be tiring and frustrating.

Automatic

• Automatics are simpler to drive, as there’s no clutch to master or gears to select. This makes the learning process quicker, helping you get your licence faster—a huge plus when test waiting times are long.
• Automatics are much harder to stall, even on steep hills or challenging starts.
• Driving in hilly areas or crawling through traffic is easier without having to constantly work a clutch.
• However, passing your test in an automatic limits you to driving automatic cars unless you take an additional test for manual vehicles.
• Automatics provide less control over the driving process, which some drivers find less engaging or rewarding.

Costs

Let’s be honest: cost is a major consideration.

Manual Cars

• Manual cars are generally cheaper to buy and tend to be more fuel-efficient.
• They’re also more common in the UK, meaning parts are often easier to find and less expensive.

Automatic Cars

• While typically more expensive to buy, automatics are becoming increasingly popular in the UK. This growing demand is leading to more availability of parts and new fuel-efficient models.
• Semi-automatic cars offer a compromise: you can control gear changes without needing a clutch. These vehicles use electronic sensors to detect gear shifts and send the information to the engine, allowing you to feel more connected to the car without the hassle of clutch control.
• However, this advanced technology often comes with a higher price tag.

Automatic or Manual?

Choosing the right type of car depends on your driving goals and preferences. If you're keen to pass your test quickly and aren’t overly concerned with the mechanics of driving, an automatic car could be the perfect fit. Automatic vehicles are also ideal for reducing stress if you’re an anxious driver. However, if you’re someone who loves the idea of mastering every aspect of driving and enjoys taking full control of the car, manual driving is the way to go.

For most people, the choice lies somewhere in between, and that’s absolutely fine. While it’s an important decision, choosing between manual or automatic driving lessons is unlikely to be life-changing or significantly impact your future driving opportunities. If you’re unsure, why not test drive both options to see which one suits you best?

The key takeaway is to prioritise being a safe and confident driver, no matter what vehicle you choose.

Not Sure How Many Hours You’ll Need?

At Leo Driving School, we can help you determine the ideal course for your needs. Our range of courses ensures you’ll find the perfect fit, whether you prefer manual or automatic lessons.

We’ve also covered the benefits of intensive driving courses, so if you're ready to start your driving journey, find the best driving course today or get in touch on 020 3051 4245. Our experienced instructors, both male and female, are ready to guide you towards success in whichever car you choose.

Automatic vs. Manual FAQs

Are electric cars automatic or manual?

Most electric vehicles are automatic because they don’t require a clutch to change gears. Instead, gear changes happen automatically, similar to a petrol or diesel automatic car. With the UK banning new petrol and diesel car sales from 2030, manual vehicles are likely to become less common.

Do automatic cars use more fuel than manual cars?

Historically, manual cars were more fuel-efficient, but advancements in technology have narrowed this gap. Many modern automatic cars now rival or surpass manuals in fuel efficiency. If you opt for an automatic, you won’t need to worry about higher fuel consumption.

Should I learn to drive an automatic or manual car?

It depends on your preferences. Manual lessons are typically cheaper, and a manual licence allows you to drive both manual and automatic cars. Automatic cars, however, make driving easier by eliminating the need for a clutch and gear changes. With the UK transitioning to electric vehicles, automatic lessons are becoming increasingly popular.

Can you drive a manual car with an automatic licence?

No, passing your test in an automatic car limits you to driving automatics. If you plan to drive a manual car, you must pass your test in one. You can always upgrade your licence later by taking a practical driving test in a manual vehicle.

Is it easier to learn in a manual or automatic car?

Learning in an automatic car is generally easier for most people. Without the need for clutch control and gear changes, there’s less to learn. You simply put the car into "Drive" and focus on the road ahead, making the process smoother and faster.

At Leo Driving School, we’ve got you covered—manual or automatic. Let’s find the best driving course for you today!