Manual vs automatic: which one uses more fuel?

Cash-strapped motorists facing rising petrol and diesel prices are being forced to rethink what kind of car makes the most financial sense.

The long-held belief that manual cars are always cheaper is now being challenged, as modern automatic gearboxes become more efficient and widely available.

Motoring enthusiast Kumbi Mtshakazi said the answer is no longer straightforward.

“It’s actually very intricate… It’s never a case about one being essentially cheaper than the other.”

Fuel consumption: the gap is narrowing

Manual cars have traditionally been seen as lighter on fuel.

But newer automatic vehicles are closing that gap.

Mtshakazi said improved technology and stricter emissions standards are driving efficiency gains.

“Automatics are very efficient… Some manual cars actually use much more fuel than the automatics.”

However, he stressed that driver behaviour plays a major role.

“If you’ve got a heavy foot… you’ll still be consuming quite a lot of fuel.”

Keeping revs low, regardless of transmission type, remains key to reducing fuel consumption.

Purchase price: automatics no longer a luxury

Automatics were once considered a premium option.

That has changed.

With more models on the market and easier production, prices are becoming more competitive with manual vehicles.

Mtshakazi said traffic conditions are also influencing buying decisions.

“Nobody wants to be sitting in traffic in a manual car.”

More drivers are opting for automatics for daily convenience, especially in stop-start urban traffic.

Maintenance costs still favour manuals

While fuel efficiency is improving in automatics, maintenance costs can still be higher.

Automatic gearboxes are more complex and require specialised servicing.

“It’s always much pricier to maintain… just because of the intricate parts.”

Manual vehicles, by comparison, are generally simpler and cheaper to repair.

Clutch wear, however, remains a risk in heavy traffic, especially for less experienced drivers.

Resale value depends on trust, not transmission

Transmission type is not the biggest factor in resale value.

Mtshakazi said brand reputation and reliability matter more.

“Resale value is… how the market is responding to a specific vehicle.”

Well-established brands continue to hold stronger value, while newer entrants are still proving themselves.

The bottom line for drivers under pressure

For motorists trying to cut fuel costs, there is no one-size-fits-all answer.

Automatic cars are now far more fuel-efficient than before.

Manual cars may still offer lower maintenance costs.

But the biggest factor remains behind the wheel.

Driving style, not just transmission choice, could be the difference between stretching a tank or draining it faster.

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For more information, listen to Mtshakazi on 702’s Weekend Breakfast with Gugs Mhlungu using the audio player below: