Do manual cars get better gas mileage?

Usually not anymore. As of 2025, modern automatics—especially 8–10‑speed automatics, CVTs, and dual‑clutch gearboxes—often match or beat the fuel economy of manual transmissions in the same model. While skilled drivers can sometimes eke out advantages in specific scenarios, EPA ratings and real‑world data generally favor today’s automatics due to smarter gearing, reduced slippage, and integrated efficiency tech.

What’s changed since manuals used to be thrift champions

For decades, manuals were simpler, had fewer parasitic losses, and let careful drivers keep revs low. That edge has largely disappeared. Automatics gained more gears, smarter control software, and hardware that minimizes energy losses. Many manufacturers also reserve their most efficient calibrations—and sometimes even the most efficient engines or final‑drive ratios—for automatic versions.

Why modern automatics often get equal or better MPG

The following improvements help automatics close—and often reverse—the historical fuel‑economy gap with manuals.

• More gears and wider ratio spread: 8–10‑speed automatics provide low revs on highways and optimal ratios in traffic.
• Torque‑converter lockup and reduced slippage: Lockup occurs sooner and more often, cutting energy loss.
• Smart shift logic: Predictive and eco modes keep engines near peak efficiency more consistently than most drivers can manage.
• CVTs and e‑CVTs: Continuously variable ratios hold the engine at its most efficient point, especially in steady cruising.
• Dual‑clutch transmissions: Mechanical clutches minimize losses while shifting faster than humans can.
• Efficiency features tied to automatics: Auto stop‑start, coasting, adaptive cruise, and some mild‑hybrid systems are frequently automatic-only.
• Calibration and gearing differences: Automatics often get taller final drives or unique aero/low‑rolling‑resistance packages.

Taken together, these technologies let automatics maintain lower engine speeds and better optimize power delivery across more driving conditions, which translates to better tested and real‑world MPG in many models.

When a manual can still be more efficient

There are exceptions, though they’re increasingly rare and often depend on driver skill and specific model setups.

• Older vehicles: In pre‑modern automatic designs (fewer gears, less lockup), a manual may outperform.
• Driver technique: Expert shifting, gentle acceleration, and anticipatory driving can beat an average automatic driver.
• Specific trims: Occasionally, a manual pairs with a lighter curb weight or taller top gear that favors highway economy.
• Niche use cases: Long, steady‑state highway cruising at moderate speeds can narrow the gap if gearing aligns well.

These cases hinge on careful driving and particular vehicle setups; for most current cars, they’re the exception, not the rule.

What current ratings and the market indicate

EPA FuelEconomy.gov ratings for 2024–2025 models commonly show the automatic version equaling or beating the manual in combined MPG when both are offered. Manual availability has also shrunk dramatically—manuals account for well under 2% of new U.S. light‑vehicle sales—so direct, apples‑to‑apples comparisons are increasingly limited. In hybrids and most electrified powertrains, manuals aren’t offered at all, and automatics (including e‑CVTs) dominate for efficiency.

Real‑world MPG depends more on how and where you drive

Regardless of transmission type, these factors typically move the needle far more than the shift lever itself.

• Speed: Aerodynamic drag rises exponentially; 70–80 mph dramatically hurts MPG versus 55–65 mph.
• Acceleration style: Smooth, moderate throttle saves fuel; frequent hard launches burn it.
• Traffic and terrain: Stop‑and‑go driving and steep grades reduce economy for any transmission.
• Load and tires: Extra weight, roof racks, low tire pressure, and aggressive tread raise consumption.
• Weather and HVAC: Cold temperatures and heavy A/C use increase fuel use.
• Maintenance: Clean air filters, proper oil, and timely tune‑ups preserve efficiency.

Because these variables can swing fuel economy by double‑digit percentages, they often overshadow the modest differences between manual and automatic versions of the same car.

How to choose between manual and automatic today

If you’re deciding with MPG in mind, consider the following steps before you buy.

• Compare official ratings: Check EPA or your country’s equivalent for the exact trims you’re cross‑shopping.
• Read road tests and owner reports: Look for real‑world fuel‑economy results, not just lab numbers.
• Test your use case: A long highway commute may favor tall‑geared autos or CVTs; tight city driving often favors automatics with stop‑start.
• Factor features: Some eco tech and driver‑assist systems come only with automatics.
• Prioritize enjoyment and practicality: If you love rowing gears, small MPG differences may be secondary; if you sit in traffic, convenience and consistency may win.

Balancing official data with your driving reality will yield the best choice, whether that’s the engagement of a manual or the efficiency and ease of a modern automatic.

Summary

In today’s market, a manual car usually does not get better gas mileage. Thanks to multi‑gear automatics, CVTs, dual‑clutch boxes, and integrated efficiency features, automatics often equal or surpass manuals in both ratings and real‑world use. Exceptions exist but are uncommon, and driving style and conditions typically matter more than transmission type. Check EPA ratings for the exact models you’re considering and choose based on your routes, priorities, and how you like to drive.

What are the disadvantages of manual cars?

Disadvantages of manual cars include a steep learning curve for new drivers, physical strain from a heavy clutch pedal in heavy traffic, and increased difficulty when starting on hills, which can lead to stalling or rolling back. You also need an extra hand and foot to operate the clutch and gear stick, preventing multitasking and making busy areas more challenging. Finding a manual car can be difficult due to their limited availability, and they may have a lower resale value than automatics, though this can vary. 
Here’s a breakdown of the key disadvantages:

• Steep Learning Curve: Operating a manual requires a combination of clutch, accelerator, and gear stick control, which can be frustrating and take significant practice to master. 
• Physical Demands: The clutch pedal can be heavy, especially in traffic, which can be tiresome for your left leg and joint. 
• Difficult Hill Starts: Without the precise coordination of a skilled driver, a manual car can easily stall or roll backward when starting on an incline. 
• Inconvenience in Traffic: The constant use of the clutch pedal can be a real struggle in heavy, stop-and-go traffic, making the driving experience less enjoyable. 
• Less Multitasking: With one hand on the wheel and the other on the gear stick, and the clutch pedal in use, it’s impossible to perform other tasks, like eating or drinking, while driving. 
• Limited Availability: Manual transmission cars are becoming increasingly rare as manufacturers favor automatic and CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) models, making them harder to find and potentially impacting resale value. 
• Potential for Stalling: Stalling the engine by releasing the clutch too quickly or engaging it improperly is a common mistake that can be embarrassing and disruptive. 

Do manual cars get better gas mileage?

And many drivers find driving with a stick more engaging and fun. We have bought several sets of test cars of different types with both manual transmission and automatic transmissions and run them through our fuel-economy and acceleration tests. In most, we found the manual delivered better mpg overall.

Why does a manual give more mileage?

In terms of fuel economy, a manual transmission can be more fuel-efficient than an automatic transmission, as it allows you to shift gears at the optimal revs for maximum fuel efficiency.

Which is more fuel-efficient, manual or auto?

Generally speaking, automatic cars are slightly less fuel-efficient than manual cars. That’s because automatic transmissions use more energy to shift gears, as they require a torque converter, which uses fluid to transfer power from the engine to the transmission.