Automatic vs Manual motorhomes, which should I choose?

‘Automatic’ is such a fantastic word. It sounds so futuristic, almost shiny and metallic, silvery even. Smooth and in control. In a way, then, it perfectly sums up the function and performance of non-manual gearboxes. In this day and age, where technology is so far advanced, and so many tasks, decisions and processes are delegated to machines and computers to complete, the automatic gearbox can perhaps seem something of a stalwart in the vehicle industry. However, the innovation it offered on its debut fifty years ago hasn’t dated. Automatic gearboxes are still incredibly useful and still offer drivers the world over a transformed experience. When you’re in the process of buying a motorhome, though, whether it's brand new or a pre-owned model, should you choose an automatic or manual gearbox? This edition of our blog explains.

What is the difference between a manual and an automatic gearbox?

Although manual transmission is still common in UK motorhomes, automatic gearboxes are steadily gaining in popularity due to their ease of use and the improved driving experience.

1.      Manual:

Vehicles with a manual gearbox are the traditional choice. This mechanical technology dates back to the earliest days of motor vehicle manufacturing. A manual gearbox requires the driver to physically select the current gear using a combination of gearstick and clutch (operated via a pedal). The main advantage of manual gearboxes is that they offer greater control over the shift between gears, allowing drivers to skip between them during acceleration or shifting down. Manual transmission is generally more responsive than automatic and provides the driver with better vehicle handling when driving in challenging conditions such as heavy rain, snow and ice. However, manual gearboxes are less fuel-efficient as they depend on the driver's skill.

2.      Automatic:

The need for constant gear changing is eliminated in vehicles which are fitted with an automatic gearbox. Automatic gearboxes automatically adjust the power (aka. the torque) from the engine to the wheels, shifting through gears without the need for any driver input. Automatic systems were designed to optimise gear changes to attain maximum speed and fuel efficiency, and to offer a smoother driving experience. 

What are the effects of choosing an automatic gearbox?

1. Repairs:

When you chose a motorhome with an automatic gearbox (in fact when you choose any vehicle fitted with one) you’ll find that if and when repairs and servicing are required, they come in at a more expensive price. Repairs for automatic gearboxes need to be undertaken by specialist mechanics using specialist equipment, which therefore increases the cost. As time goes on, though, and automatic motorhomes become more widespread, taking the greater share of the motorhome market, the price gap between repairs for automatic and standard gearboxes will narrow.

2. Licence: 

If you learned to drive in an automatic car, you will have taken your driving test in an automatic and will only actually be licensed to drive an automatic. If you then want to drive a car with a manual gearbox then you must pass a further test. This same condition also applies to motorhomes. If you learned to drive and took your test in a car with a manual gearbox then your driving licence allows you to drive both manual and automatic motorhomes (up to 3,500kg. For any larger vehicle, further testing will be required). Automatic motorhomes are often in the larger class / categories.

For some people the physical process of changing gears in a motorhome fitted with manual transmission is preferable due to the reassuring nature of ‘doing something’ to feel in control. For others the ‘fiddle’ of having to change gears is almost completely removed and the driving experience becomes a little less intensively interactive. 

Ultimately, though, the decision between an automatic motorhome or a manual motorhome should be based on your needs and preferences, not solely on what type of gearbox the motorhome is fitted with. It should be viewed as just one factor. Here at Wandahome we can discuss your gearbox preferences as part of a bigger picture, and help you decide on the perfect vehicle for you.