Vehicle & fleet · Travelers + trade
Automatic vs manual
Also called automatic transmission, manual transmission, stick shift
The short answerWhether the car changes gears by itself (automatic) or you use a clutch and gear stick (manual).
What it means
An automatic car shifts gears on its own; a manual (stick shift) needs a clutch pedal and gear lever. In North America almost every rental car is automatic. In much of Europe and some other markets, manuals are common and often cheaper, and automatics are booked as their own class.
Why it matters
If you can't drive a manual, book an automatic class specifically. "Or similar" stays within the transmission you booked, but the counter can't always swap a manual for an automatic if none are free.
Wording by region
The third letter of the ACRISS code shows it: M = manual, A = automatic.
Related terms
- ACRISS codeA four-letter code that describes a rental car's size, body type, transmission and fuel/air conditioning, e.g. CDMR.
- Or similarYou're booking a class of car, not a specific model; the car shown is an example from that class.
- Car classThe size and type group a rental is booked in, such as compact automatic, rather than a specific model.
- UpgradeGetting a car from a higher class than the one you booked, either free or for an extra charge.
Also related Economy / compact / intermediate