Originally automatic cars just had one type of automatic gearbox, but now there are several automatic gearboxes to choose from, that change gears automatically, just in different ways.
• Torque converter, traditional automatic – established in the 1940s, change gear more slowly than a dual-clutch automatic.
• Dual-clutch automatic (DSG) – operates electronically using two clutches, one for even-numbered gears and another for odd-numbered ones. Makes gear changes quickly, often quicker than a manual car.
• Automated manual (ASG/ESG/ETG) – a regular manual gearbox that is operated electronically by the car.
• Continuously variable transmission (CVT) – works with cones and belts rather than cogs and is controlled by an on-board computer.
These different types of automatic gearboxes have their pros and cons. Whichever type of automatic gearbox you choose you can’t deny they offer convenience when driving and it’s even been suggested that some automatic cars are now more fuel-efficient than manual offerings. We’ve compiled a list of the five best automatic cars on the market.
Best for city driving
Citroen C1 1.0 VTi Flair 5dr ETG from £10,328 new. This small Citroen offers low running costs and an affordable list price. Costs are kept low because of its low insurance group and free road tax, thanks to its 1.0-litre engine offering 67.3MPG and outputting 97g/km. It has a five-speed ETG automated manual gearbox and electrically adjustable heated door mirrors, LED daytime running lights, remote control central locking as standard. Also available on the Flair and Feel trim levels is an Airscape roof, perfect for summer days. The supermini is available as a three or five door. It’s fuel efficient and great for city driving. It has a tight turning circle and is small enough to squeeze in to the tightest of spots, the reversing camera also helps with parking (only available on the Flair and above). However, it doesn’t perform as well on motorways or country roads where higher speeds are expected.
Best for small families
The automatic VW Polo comes with a smooth seven-speed DSG gearbox that is slightly slower than the manual, but when you’ve got the family on board this shouldn’t be much of a problem. It’s powered by a 1.8-litre turbo engine that offers a combined mpg of 47.9 and emissions of 134g/km. There are two ISOFIX fittings in the rear and plenty of space for a small car; it’s available in three or five door guises and has a boot capacity of 280 litres. It was awarded a five-star Euro NCAP rating and all models come with electronic stability control, hill hold, anti-whiplash headrests and a full set of airbags.
Best for fuel efficiency
The Citroen C3 1.4 e-HDi Airdream VTR+5dr ETG is not only fuel efficient but also comfortable and spacious.
The model with the most impressive miles per gallon on offer is the e-HDi Airdream with the ESG automatic gearbox returning a combined 83.1mpg and emitting 87g/km of CO2. There are three trim levels to choose from; VT, VTR+ and Exclusive. With the entry level offering remote central locking, trip computer and a CD player as standard. There is more emphasis on cost effective driving than enjoyment but it is easy to drive in towns and cities and comfortable enough for longer journeys with good visibility from a beneficial driving position.
Best for larger families
… with a bigger budget. The Toyota Rav4 2.0 Icon 5dr M-Drive S from £23,995 has a CVT automatic gearbox that offers fast and smooth gear changes. There are two trims available with an automatic transmission; Icon and Invincible (three overall.) This model offers 39.2 miles per gallon and emits 167g/km of CO2.
The Icon trim boasts automatic rain sensing wipers, dusk sensitive headlights, auto-dimming interior mirror, electric windows with anti-trap protection, LED daytime running lights, child proof door locks, brake assist and ABS/EBD. The 4x4 has large tyres that soften any bumps in the road so it’s a comfortable journey, wherever you’re going. There’s plenty of room for a family, and four six-foot adults could sit comfortably in the cabin and there’s plenty of storage including a boot space of 547 litres with underfloor storage, for all the things that come with family life.
Best for the environment
The Renault Zoe from £13995, is powered by an 88bhp electric motor that can reach a top speed of 84mph. The Zoe offers a smooth and quiet drive, not dissimilar to many other electric vehicles. The range allows for city and town driving, up to 130 miles. Currently one of the most affordable EVs on the market, the Zoe has 3 trim levels; Expression, Dynamique Zen and Dynamique Intens. The entry-level Expression comes with sat nav, ISOFIX car seat mounts, climate control, cruise control and power-folding heated door mirrors as standard. The battery is stored under the front and rear seats so that boot space is not sacrificed boasting an impressive 338 litres.