I drive a manual transmission car and I find my mileage to be comparable if not lower to an automatic transmission car. While activating cruise control, my mileage rises by a few kms because of this I have always wondered which transmission for my next car would be the best, considering mileage to be an important factor.
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For 95% of people and 95% of driving, a modern automatic is the right choice.
In the old days, there was about a 10% loss of mileage with a three-speed torque converter automatic. Modern autos have more gears, torque converter lockup and presumably other efficiencies that reduce this difference significantly.
They also work much better with all of the modern technologies in todays cars.
If you are looking at a simple, light sports car or hot hatch which is driven mainly for pleasure – that’s when I would consider a manual. It does give more engagement – it’s simply more fun.
The modern thing is a very complicated device called a twin-clutch automated manual gearbox; called DSG in Audi, PDK in Porsche, with other manufacturers having their own names. Unlike regular automatics, they are both faster and more economical than manual transmissions. But much more complicated and with the risk of expensive repairs. Look for a long warranty.
CVT transmissions are different altogether, quite efficient, not hugely complicated, generally boring as fuck to drive.
If you know what brand of car you are looking at, people can give more informed recommendations based on what that manufacturer did well. If you don’t care that much about the brand, then I would just say get whatever is the most popular fitment for the model you choose.
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