End of the Manual Transmission?

Has the manual transmission become old news?
On this week’s episode, Taye and Ryno discuss the future of transmissions, explore the pros and cons of automatic and manual transmissions, and suggest the best transmission options for new drivers.
Catch this and more on the #AutoTraderPodcast!
0:00 Show teaser
0:17 Intro: Meet Ryno and Taye!
01:10 Switching gears - Automatic VS manual transmissions
02:51 Automatic transmissions pros and cons
04:50 What’s a CVT transmission
06:51 Cars with CVT Transmissions
08:30 Manual transmissions pros and cons
12:43 Manual transmissions in GTI’s
15:51 Manual driver flexes
18:55 Best transmission for new drivers
21:17 Transmissions in Electronic Cars
23:16 The future of manual transmissions
26:03 Outro

[@thomasmahlangu4119]

💯 Manual for me even if in 2014 my Double Clutch replacement set me back R17000.00 on my Audi A4 2.0T. In the 80's my first car was was a Ford Granada automatic, which gave me regular problems with the Gearbox Torque Converter. I still prefer interacting with the car to prevent me from sleeping whilest driving 🤛👊

[@NtumeleloNgobese]

🔥🔥🔥

[@rtmanyemba]

there are pros and cons to both manual and automatic transmissions. With a manual, you're definitely more involved in the driving process. You've got the clutch, the gears, the engine revs - it all keeps you engaged with the car. That can make you feel more in tune with how it's running.
But that doesn't necessarily mean you're a better driver. Here's the thing: some folks who are used to manuals might think automatics are too easy. They might take their hand off the wheel or fiddle with the radio more because they're not busy shifting. It's kind of like how some people who quit smoking feel the need to have something in their mouth, you know? Automatic lets them focus less on the car and maybe a little less on the road.
Automatics are great because they're simpler to operate. Especially in heavy traffic, you don't want to be constantly shifting gears. It frees up your mind a bit to focus on what's happening around you on the road.
In the end, it's not about which transmission makes you a better driver. It's all about staying attentive, being responsible, and driving defensively. That way, you're a safe driver no matter what you're behind the wheel of.

[@thebluegoonie]

I just traded in my automatic car (thought I'd give it a try) for a manual because I grew so frustrated with not feeling in control, and the fact that the car never shifted when I wanted it to. Yes, I could use the paddles but they were a poor substitute for a gear knob. I don't drive much in traffic, so now I'm much happier with a car I can fully control. Anyway, manual transmissions are safer IMHO - automatics can kind of 'run away with you' if you're not a very good driver.

[@harryclarencealexander9161]

Auto boxes are scary expensive to repair. Manual gearbox almost never fails unless abused. When buying a used car with auto box you must prepare yourself for the possibility of having to spend big money WHEN the gearbox requires refurbishment.

[@rtmanyemba]

For me, the decline of manual transmissions feels a bit like the death of manual steering. Progress is great,
and automatics are definitely easier. But I worry people are forgetting the engagement a manual brings. You hear some folks talk about the 'pure driving experience' with manuals, but let's be real. Most folks choosing automatics are voting with their wallets, practicality wins. And yeah, struggling with a clutch in traffic with a base Corolla? Not exactly what I'd call a pure experience. But give me a sports car like a 911, throw in a stick shift, and now we're talking!