Boîte manuelle : une valeur sûre sur le marché de l’occasion ?

Long considered the norm, manual gearboxes are rapidly declining in new vehicles. The vast majority of new models are equipped with automatic transmissions, but manual gearboxes are still sought after in certain cases. This often means turning to the second-hand market.

A declining presence in new vehicles

In Europe, the proportion of new cars equipped with manual gearboxes has fallen dramatically: from 91% in 2001 to just 29% in 2024. In Luxembourg, where the car fleet is being renewed more rapidly, this trend is even more pronounced: between 2015 and 2023, the proportion of new automatic cars rose from 23% to over 70%.

This change can be explained by several factors: comfort in urban traffic, improvements in modern automatic gearboxes, and the gradual spread of hybrid and electric engines, which are automatic by nature. Together, these factors are pushing manufacturers to make the strategic choice of limiting the number of manual versions in their ranges. However, the classic gear lever continues to meet certain practical needs.

Still an essential tool for learning

Many driving schools and some parents still recommend that young learners master manual driving. Paradoxically, this means that families have to find a manual vehicle, as most family cars have automatic transmissions. Buying a used car may therefore be essential for learning in the right conditions.

A different driving experience

For some motorists, manual transmission is not a constraint: it is an integral part of the pleasure of driving. Shifting gears yourself, controlling the clutch, feeling the engine… It gives enthusiasts a sense of control and a more direct connection with the car. Whether out of habit or preference, many continue to favour this type of transmission when buying a car. With new options becoming scarce, they will have to turn to used vehicles.

Practical and economic advantages

Manual transmissions also offer more concrete advantages when budget is a consideration. Manual vehicles are often cheaper to buy than their automatic equivalents. Their simpler mechanics can also reduce maintenance and repair costs. On the other hand, some more exclusive manual models remain sought after and retain an attractive resale value, especially when they are well maintained and meet the expectations of a specific customer base.

The classic manual gearbox is therefore not yet dead. It remains a valid, even necessary choice, depending on the circumstances of each driver. For those taking their first steps behind the wheel and learning to drive, or for those who want to keep the pleasure of driving, it still has a bright future ahead of it. Looking at used cars means that it is still possible to find some recent models with manual transmission. However, the inevitable shift towards automation that has been underway for several years for most new vehicles will increasingly limit the choice of this type of vehicle available in the future, with the exception of the most exclusive sports models.