Manual vs Automatic Vans

Here at Loads of Vans in Surrey, we realise choosing between the two can be hard, so here is our advice...

When it comes to selecting the 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 to consider when weighing up the right model to purchase, with the choice between manual and automatic transmissions one of the key considerations. But what exactly are the differences and how does one choose the right option for them?

What’s the difference?

Quite simply, a manual van requires you to operate gear changes by using the clutch pedal and the gearstick. An automatic transmission, meanwhile, 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

With manual vans more common than automatic options, it stands to reason that there must be plenty of reasons why! For example, choosing a manual model means you can benefit from:

• Greater control in your motoring
• More affordable purchasing and maintenance costs
• Better performance when it comes to speed

Benefits of an automatic

Likewise, there are a number of benefits to selecting an automatic vehicle for your business, most notably:

• 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, Renault Kangoo ZE 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, however, 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 using the contact from below to discuss your options.