Dominated by Automatic Transmissions, Three Pedal Cars Are Still in Demand

Subaru WRX 2022. (Doc. Subaru)

JAKARTA - The automotive industry is developing rapidly and automatic transmission cars are increasingly dominating the roads. However, unlike what many people might think, manual transmissions are not completely abandoned.

Manual transmissions still have a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts, and sales of manual transmissions have even increased in recent years.

By 2023, manual transmissions will account for 1.7 percent of all new car sales, according to JD.Power, one of the largest dealer networks in the US. This is a jump of less than one percent in 2021. Even CarMax, the largest used car chain in the US, reported a similar increase in sales of manual transmission cars.

While many may think that the main factor behind buying a manual car is to save money, automotive experts reveal that that is not the main reason.

Mark Collier, Regional Vice President and General Manager of CarMax, said that customers are more often buying manual cars to feel nostalgia and remember their past.

"Customers have expressed interest in manual transmission vehicles due to various factors, including nostalgia and reminiscing about the past," said Collier, quoted from WardsAuto, Friday, September 22.

This opinion is supported by Ivan Drury, Director of Edmunds.com, who explains that currently, no customers are buying three-pedal cars to save costs. According to him, learning to drive with a manual car brings its own benefits and satisfaction.

“Nobody buys a manual these days to save money. These cars enhance the driving experience. "People feel more in control of their vehicles," Drury said.

The interesting part is that the most popular manual transmission cars in the US today are vehicles that have sporty style and performance as the Honda Civic, Ford Mustang, Subaru WRX, Jeep Wrangler, Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Focus, VW Jetta, and Dodge Challenger continue to deliver experiences. a special drive for car enthusiasts.