Automatic vs Manual Vans

When it comes to choosing a commercial vehicle best suited for you and your business, you’d be forgiven for focusing on the practicality it offers and the running costs. In reality, there is much more to consider when weighing up the right model to purchase. 

The choice between automatic and manual transmissions is one of the key factors to consider, but what exactly are the differences between them?

Key Differences:

Quite simply, a manual van requires you to operate gear changes by using the clutch pedal and the gearstick. Meanwhile, an automatic transmission manages the gear changes on your behalf. Traditionally, manual models have been the most popular in the UK, with mainland Europe often preferring automatic models.

Benefits of a Manual

• Greater control in your motoring
• More affordable purchasing and maintenance costs
• Better performance when it comes to speed
• All the benefits of an automatic

Benefits of an Automatic

• Easier to drive (particularly in urban environments when regular gear changes are required)
• Smoother motoring thanks to seamless transitions
• Simple motoring without having to focus on gear changes

What models are available?

All the major commercial vehicle manufacturers are able to provide both manual and automatic editions of their vehicles. For example, you can choose from models such as the Ford Transit, Citroën Dispatch, Citroën Berlingo, Peugeot Expert, Renault Kangoo automatic diesel, Renault Kangoo E-Tech electric, Renault Trafic Auto, Nissan ENV200 and the Nissan Navara in both guises. 

Offering the exact same design features and technology, the only difference between the models is the transmission, with both providing economical performance and enough power to tackle any challenge.

Which should I choose?

At the end of the day, the choice between manual or automatic is really down to you. What’s good to know is that there are myriad options available regardless of your preference, so you can look forward to finding the ideal model to suit your needs.

At Loads of Vans in North Cheam, Surrey, we’re delighted to be able to provide a selection of great value used automatic vans to complement the manual vehicles we have in stock. Simply take a look through the selection today and get in touch with a member of our team to find out more.