Manual transmissions decline as automatic and electric vehicles dominate

The automotive industry is seeing a rapid decline in manual transmission vehicles as automatic, hybrid, and electric models dominate the market. In the United Kingdom, manual car enquiries fell to just 8% of new-car interest in the first half of 2026, down from 21% in 2024. This shift is driven by both consumer preference for convenience and a shrinking supply, as only about one in five new models available through Carwow can be ordered with a manual gearbox.

The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) is a primary factor, as most EVs utilize single-speed transmissions that function similarly to automatics. Additionally, hybrids and electric vehicles accounted for 52% of UK new-car registrations in early 2026.

In the United States, the trend is similarly pronounced. The number of new car models available with manual transmissions has dropped from 92 in 2016 to just 24 in 2026. Luxury manufacturers like Audi are also phasing out the option, with specific models like the A4 Ultra Sport representing some of the final iterations of manual-equipped sedans in the American market.