Rental cars vary in terms of size, passenger capacity, off-road capabilities, and transmission type. You can rent a car with either a classic manual gearbox or an automatic transmission. While the rental price for automatic cars is slightly higher, the comfort they provide is undeniable.
Which customer categories prefer automatic transmission cars?
There are several customer groups and situations where automatic cars are the better choice. Below, we will outline some of them to help you decide if you fall into any of these categories and make the right decision when booking a rental car. Although most rental car companies offer the option to change your vehicle after the rental period begins, this is not always feasible or cost-effective. It is better to evaluate your needs before making a reservation.
Here are the main situations and customer categories for which automatic transmission cars are a more suitable option:
Young Drivers
If you are still inexperienced in driving, it’s better to play it safe. This way, you can avoid many stressful situations and even incidents that could result in vehicle damage, or worse, put your health, life, and the safety of others at risk. If you are a young and inexperienced driver, make sure to opt for the automatic models offered by the rental agency.
Women Drivers
Although many women are excellent drivers, most of them prefer not to deal with manual transmission. When driving through busy urban intersections, operating an automatic car is more convenient and less stressful. Women, being more emotional by nature, are more prone to panic in stressful situations, where errors in manual gear shifting are more likely to occur. Fortunately, this risk can easily be avoided.
Owners of Automatic Cars
If your personal car is automatic or you have only driven such cars in recent years, it’s better to stick with what you’re used to when renting a car. Even if you previously drove a manual car, it’s likely that you’ve lost the habit of shifting gears manually. This could make your trip more stressful and less enjoyable.
City Driving
If you’re renting a car primarily for driving through congested city streets, an automatic transmission is a better choice, especially if manual shifting isn’t your strong suit. Frequent stops and starts at traffic lights increase the likelihood of stalling the engine, which might provoke negative reactions from other drivers. Avoid this hassle by renting a car with automatic transmission.
Driving on Unfamiliar Routes
If you’re planning to travel on unfamiliar routes to find a specific address, location, or tourist site, you’ll likely need to reduce speed, pull over, and stop frequently. Each of these maneuvers requires skilled gear handling. If this isn’t your strong suit, it’s better to rent an automatic car, which makes everything easier and safer.
In short, cars with automatic transmissions are more convenient and easier to drive, though it may take a little time to get used to them. If you’re considering switching to such a car, the transition is not difficult. It’s no coincidence that the law allows drivers with licenses for manual transmission vehicles to operate automatic ones as well.
At Travel Cars EOOD, we recommend choosing comfort and safety when booking a rental car. This will make your journey not only safer and smoother but also much easier and more enjoyable. After all, why miss out on a more pleasant driving experience?