While manual cars are currently the most popular choice for new drivers, there are signs in the industry that this is set to change.
More and more learners are choosing to learn to drive in automatic cars. In 2025, more than 25% of driving tests were in automatic vehicles. This is a huge increase from less than 5% in 2013. Perhaps even more eye-opening is the prediction that 2027 could see the last person born who will take a driving test in a manual car if some studies are to be believed.
Whatever the case, it’s clear that automatic car learning is becoming more and more popular, and driving instructors need to be prepared for this. In this article, the team here at CA Cars will take a closer look at which type of cars are most common to learn in and the benefits of both.
Differences between learning in a manual and an automatic car
There are significant differences between learning to drive a manual and an automatic. This includes:
- Gears - Automatic cars change gears automatically, with no need to use a clutch pedal like in manual cars. Many people find this easier, which is one of the biggest reasons why automatic cars are becoming a more popular choice.
- Multitasking - No gear stick or clutch pedal means less multitasking when learning to drive in an automatic car, making it less physically demanding and simpler.
- Learning times - Learning how to drive in a manual car can take longer as the driver needs to master how to control the clutch and change gears.
Overall, automatic cars are sometimes viewed as easier to learn how to drive in due to automatic gear changing and a lack of clutch control.
Benefits of learning in a manual car
There is a wide range of benefits to manual car learning, including:
- Greater flexibility - People who learn to drive in a manual car will be able to drive both manual and automatic vehicles.
- Enhanced vehicle control - Manual learners develop better control of vehicles as they learn clutch control and gear selection.
- More availability - Currently, manual cars make up about 70% of vehicles on British roads, meaning people who learn in a manual car will have more choice when it comes to buying their own vehicle.
Benefits of learning in an automatic car
Automatic car learning also has several advantages, including:
- Easier and quicker to learn - Automatic learning is often considered easier due to the lack of manual gear changing and clutch control required.
- Great for city driving - Automatic cars perform especially well in urban areas where stop-start traffic is commonplace.
- Well-suited for modern vehicles - Most new vehicles that are released are automatic, especially electric cars. This looks set to continue in the future, so learning in an automatic car means the learner is prepared for what will one day be the norm.
Are all electric cars automatic?
Yes, all electric cars are automatic as they have electric motors that provide instant power, removing the need for manual gears or a clutch pedal. In 2030, new petrol and diesel cars will be banned as the UK shifts towards an electric future, meaning one day in the not-too-distant future, virtually every car on the road will be automatic.
Whether you’re looking for a car to lease or buy, at CA Cars, we supply driving instructors across the country with a wide range of quality vehicles. We provide both manual and automatic vehicles, so no matter what type you need, we have you covered with a whole host of options to choose from. To find out more, contact our expert team today.
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