Everything you need to know about an automatic car lease

What do you need to know about an automatic car lease, and is it right for you?

Have you ever been stuck in stop-start traffic and had the pain of using the clutch a million times to shift gears?

Well, here’s the good news: it’s an avoidable pain with an automatic car.

In a world where manual was always the norm, the rising popularity of electric cars (EVs) is making automatic cars more prevalent than ever.

And what better way to get in the driver's seat than to lease, making the car of your dreams more affordable.

But there are a couple of things you should know before you figuratively shift gears and try out an automatic car.

We're here to help with this comprehensive guide to an automatic car lease.

We'll cover everything from their history and why you might choose an automatic over manual, to the licence requirements and best models to lease.

We've even chucked in some fun questions like whether automatic cars can drift – because why not?

By the end, you'll know exactly whether an automatic lease is the right move for you.

Can I lease an automatic car?

You can absolutely lease an automatic car.

In fact, more and more automatic cars are becoming available. With the 2030 petrol and diesel ban looming ahead, we're seeing more EVs being introduced – and they don't need gears, as the majority have a single-speed transmission.

But even looking at new combustion cars, the vast majority are now automatic. Gone are the days when you had to specifically hunt for an automatic version of your favourite model.

The benefits of leasing mean you get the newest cars on the market, but you only pay for the depreciation – making it cheaper and more affordable for you to get the car of your dreams.

Why leasing an automatic makes perfect sense:

• Always driving the latest automatic technology
• Lower monthly payments compared to buying
• Easy to upgrade to newer models every few years

Whether you're looking for a small city car like the Hyundai i10, a family SUV like the Nissan Qashqai, or an electric vehicle like the Tesla Model 3, there's an automatic lease deal waiting for you.

Understanding automatic cars: The basics

What makes a car automatic?

The clue's in the name – automatic cars do the gear changing, well, automatically.

No clutch pedal, no manual gear changes.

Step into an automatic car and you'll immediately notice what's missing: the clutch pedal.

Instead of three pedals, you've got just two: brake and accelerator.

No more juggling your left foot while trying to find the right gear, and definitely no more stalling at traffic lights.

The car's computer decides when to change gears based on your speed, how hard you're pressing the accelerator, and even whether you're going uphill.

But how does it actually work?

Traditional automatic cars use something called a torque converter – think of it as a very clever fluid coupling that transfers power from the engine to the wheels.

Instead of a clutch plate that physically connects and disconnects, the torque converter uses transmission fluid to do the job smoothly.

It's a bit like having two fans facing each other – when one spins fast enough, it makes the other one spin too.

But not all automatics are created equal. In fact, there are semi-automatic options too.

When it comes to automatic cars, there are several flavours to choose from:

• Paddle shift: These give you manual control when you want it, with paddles behind the steering wheel to change gears. Perfect for when you want to feel more involved in the driving experience
• CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission): These don't have traditional gears at all – they seamlessly adjust the gear ratio for maximum efficiency. You might notice the engine staying at a constant RPM, which can feel a bit odd at first
• Dual-clutch automatics: These use two clutches (hence the name) to pre-select the next gear, making gear changes lightning fast

The beauty of leasing? You can try different types of automatic transmissions without committing to buying any of them.

When were automatic cars invented?

Think automatics are a modern invention? Think again.

The first automatic transmission was actually invented way back in 1921 by a Canadian engineer called Alfred Munro. His early version used compressed air – quite different from the fluid-based systems we know today.

The breakthrough came in 1940 when General Motors introduced the Hydra-Matic, the first automatic transmission to use hydraulic fluid.

GM marketed it as "the greatest advance since the self-starter" and it went into full production with the Oldsmobile in 1948.

The evolution didn't stop there though:

• 1955: GM replaced the Hydra-Matic with the Jetaway (which didn't perform well)
• 1969: The "Turbo Hydra-Matic" took the market by storm
• 1968: Honda entered the game with the Hondamatic, paired with a tiny 354cc engine
• 1991: BMW released the first-ever 5-speed automatic for the 7 Series
• 2003: Volkswagen introduced dual-clutch technology with the Golf R32

The 1970s energy crisis and fuel economy standards forced manufacturers to make automatics more efficient.

But the real game-changer has been the rise of hybrid and electric vehicles since 2010. Most pure electric vehicles are automatic (they don't need gears), and plug-in hybrids use automatic transmissions too.

In fact, between 2019-2021, automatic cars finally outnumbered manual cars in new car sales for the first time in the UK. With the shift towards electric vehicles and the 2030 petrol and diesel ban, automatics are set to become the norm rather than the exception.

Where are the controls?

Getting into an automatic car for the first time? Here's what you'll find:

Two pedals instead of three:

• Right foot: Brake and accelerator (just like a manual)
• Left foot: Nothing – there's no clutch pedal

Instead of a gear stick, you'll have a gear selector with these positions:

• P (Park): For when you're parked
• R (Reverse): For going backwards
• N (Neutral): Engine running but not in gear
• D (Drive): For normal driving forward

Some cars also have additional options like S (Sport) for more responsive driving or L (Low) for steep hills.

If you've got a semi-automatic (like a dual-clutch or CVT), you might also find:

• Paddle shifts: Small levers behind the steering wheel to manually change gears when you want more control
• Manual mode: Usually accessed by moving the gear selector to M and then using + and - to shift up or down

That's it – much simpler than you might think.

Why choose automatic over manual?

If you're weighing up automatic versus manual, you're not alone. But here's why more drivers are making the switch to automatic.

The benefits

There's simply less to think about with an automatic. Pop it in drive and you're away – no more worrying about which gear you should be in, when to change up, or juggling clutch timing. You can focus on the road instead of managing the mechanics.

Stop-start driving in busy areas is much less tiring when you don't have to work a clutch pedal constantly. Your left leg gets to relax while the car handles all the gear changes for you.

Modern automatics shift gears seamlessly, without the occasional jolt or rough change that can happen with manual cars. It's a more comfortable ride for you and your passengers.

You can keep both hands on the wheel at all times, rather than reaching for the gear stick. This means better control and more attention on what's happening around you.

Forget about bunny-hopping away from traffic lights or rolling backwards on hills. Automatics eliminate those awkward moments that can happen to the best of us.

The benefits of automatic over manual:

• Easier to drive
• Traffic jams become bearable
• Smoother driving experience
• Safer on the road
• No more stalling embarrassment

Perfect for new drivers, so that they can focus on building road confidence without the added stress of clutch control.

The considerations

Automatic cars typically cost more to buy outright than manual equivalents – which is exactly why leasing makes so much sense. You get all the benefits without the hefty upfront cost.

Some drivers love the hands-on control of manual gears. If you enjoy the mechanical connection of changing gears yourself, an automatic might feel too detached. Though many modern automatics offer manual modes when you want more control.

Some considerations for automatics:

• Higher purchase prices
• Different driving feel

Best automatic cars to lease

So, you're convinced that automatic is the way to go? Good choice. But with so many automatic cars available to lease, where do you start?

We've done the hard work for you and picked out some of the best automatic cars across different categories.

Whether you're after premium luxury, great value, or family practicality, there's an automatic lease deal with your name on it.

Premium options

• Tesla Model 3 - The electric saloon that redefined premium motoring
• Polestar 4 - Scandinavian design meets cutting-edge electric tech
• Audi A3 - The compact premium hatchback with all the luxury touches

Best value options

• Hyundai i10 - Small car, big on value and reliability
• Jaecoo 7 - Premium SUV looks without the premium price tag

Family-friendly choices

• Volkswagen ID.7 - Spacious electric saloon perfect for family adventures
• Peugeot E-5008 - Seven-seater electric SUV that doesn't compromise on style
• Hyundai Tucson - The dependable family SUV with hybrid efficiency

Electric favourites

• Tesla Model Y - The electric SUV that's changing the game
• MG4 EV - Affordable electric driving without the compromise
• Polestar 3 - Luxury electric SUV with impressive range and performance

Driving an automatic: What you need to know

Licence requirements

Here's something crucial to remember: you can't drive a manual car with an automatic licence.

If you choose to learn in an automatic, you'll only be legally allowed to drive automatic cars. However, if you have a manual licence, you'll be able to drive both automatic and manual cars.

It's also worth noting that automatic driving lessons often cost more than manual lessons, though many find they need fewer lessons overall since there's less to master.

Driving techniques

• Starting and moving off

Always keep your foot on the brake pedal when shifting from park to drive or reverse. Once you select drive and lift your foot off the brake, most automatics will 'creep' forward on their own – no accelerator needed.

This is handy for parking manoeuvres and slow-speed driving.

• Accelerator response

Be gentle with the accelerator pedal. Automatics can be more responsive than manuals, so a light touch is often all you need.

The gearbox will automatically select the right gear based on how much pressure you apply and your driving speed.

• Hill driving

Good news – no more rolling backwards on hills. Most modern automatics will hold themselves on inclines, and many have hill-hold assist that prevents rollback when you move your foot from brake to accelerator.

Many automatics offer additional settings:

• S (Sport): Keeps gears longer for more responsive acceleration
• L (Low): Stays in lower gears for more control on steep hills or when towing
• Winter mode (often a snowflake symbol): Some cars have this for better traction in snow and ice

Are automatic cars being phased out?

Quite the opposite – automatic cars are taking over.

With the 2030 petrol and diesel ban approaching, we're seeing a massive shift towards electric vehicles.

And here's the thing: most electric cars are automatic.

They don't need traditional gears because electric motors deliver power differently to combustion engines.

Between 2019-2021, automatic cars finally outnumbered manual cars in new car sales for the first time in the UK. This wasn't just a blip – it's a trend that's accelerating.

Why the shift is happening:

• Electric vehicle growth: Nearly every EV on the road is automatic by default
• Hybrid popularity: Most hybrid cars use automatic transmissions
• Improved technology: Modern automatics are more efficient and reliable than ever
• Urban driving: More people living in cities where automatics excel in stop-start traffic

If you're considering your next car, choosing automatic keeps you ahead of the curve. You're not just getting a car that's easier to drive today – you're preparing for a future where automatic is the norm.

Leasing makes even more sense in this context. You can experience the latest automatic technology without worrying about your car becoming outdated.

When it's time to upgrade, you'll seamlessly move to whatever the latest automatic innovation is.

Automatic car leasing: Your questions answered

Can automatic cars drift?

The short answer: Yes, but definitely don't try it in your lease car.

Any car can drift, as long as the physical needs are met. The driver must put the car in a state where the wheels turn faster than the traction can keep up, thus propelling the car sideways. After that, it's about skill and control.

How it works with automatics:

• Power oversteer: High-powered automatics can break rear traction with throttle alone
• Handbrake technique: Using the handbrake to initiate slides in tighter corners
• Weight transfer: Using steering and braking to shift weight and break traction

Why it's different from manual:

• No clutch control means different initiation techniques
• Automatic gear changes can disrupt drifts (manual mode helps)
• Torque converters can make throttle response less immediate

But here's the important bit for lease customers: Drifting puts enormous stress on tyres, brakes, suspension, and the transmission. This kind of aggressive driving would definitely fall outside Fair Wear and Tear Guidelines, potentially leaving you with hefty charges at the end of your lease.

If you're interested in performance driving, look for proper track day experiences where you can push a car to its limits without worrying about the condition of your car.

Maintenance considerations

Automatic transmissions are more complex than manual gearboxes, with hydraulic systems, electronic sensors, and sophisticated software managing the gear changes.

This means servicing can be more involved and potentially more expensive.

What automatic maintenance involves:

• Transmission fluid changes: Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) needs replacing every 50,000-100,000 miles, depending on driving conditions
• Filter replacements: Automatic transmissions have filters that need periodic changing
• Electronic diagnostics: Modern automatics rely on sensors that may need checking
• Cooling system maintenance: Automatics generate more heat and need proper cooling

Here's where leasing really shines for automatic cars.

Those higher maintenance costs? They're typically covered in your lease package. You get all the convenience of automatic driving without worrying about expensive transmission repairs or services.

Even with a lease, it's good to know the warning signs of transmission trouble:

• Delayed or rough gear changes
• Unusual noises when shifting
• Burning smells (could indicate overheating)
• Fluid leaks (red or brown puddles under the car)

If you notice any of these, contact your leasing company or approved service centre. Early detection prevents bigger problems and ensures your lease car stays in good condition.

Insurance and running costs

Automatic cars can be slightly more expensive to insure than manuals, mainly because automatic gearboxes cost more to replace. If you hold an automatic-only licence, premiums may be higher than for drivers with full manual licences.

Modern automatics often match or beat manual cars for fuel economy, especially in stop-start traffic. The old belief that automatics are fuel-guzzlers is based on outdated technology.

When you lease, many cost concerns disappear.

No clutch replacements, no depreciation worries, and maintenance is typically covered. You get automatic convenience without the traditional cost penalties.

Finding your perfect automatic lease

What to consider

Think about how you'll use the car.

Daily commuting in traffic? Family duties? Mostly motorway miles? Automatics excel in all these scenarios, especially stop-start driving.

While automatics cost more to buy, leasing makes them affordable through monthly payments.

Most electric cars are automatic, so going electric means going automatic the majority of the time.

Things to consider when finding your perfect automatic lease:

• Your driving needs
• Budget and practicality
• Fuel type

Next steps

So, is an automatic car lease right for you? If you value convenience and stress-free driving, then absolutely.

Modern automatics are efficient, smooth, and perfect for today's driving conditions. With all electric cars being automatic, you're also choosing the future of motoring.

Leasing makes even more sense for automatics – you get the latest technology without the higher purchase prices or maintenance headaches. It's motoring made simple.

FAQs on automatic cars

Will automatic car start in neutral?

Yes, most automatic cars can start in neutral, but you'll need to keep your foot on the brake pedal. However, it's safer and more common to start in park, as this prevents the car from rolling if you accidentally release the brake.

Can I get an automatic on any lease term?

Absolutely. Whether you want a short 18-month lease or a longer 48-month agreement, automatic cars are available on all standard lease terms. The choice of term depends on your personal circumstances and how often you like to change cars.

Are there automatic vans available?

Yes, though they're less common than automatic cars. Most electric vans are automatic (like the Vauxhall Vivaro Electric), and some traditional vans offer automatic options. If you need an automatic van, we can help you find suitable options over on Vanparison.

What happens if the automatic transmission fails?

With a lease car, this isn't your problem. Mechanical failures like transmission issues are covered by the leasing company and manufacturer warranty. You'll typically get a replacement vehicle while repairs are carried out, so you're not left without transport.