When it comes to car leasing, one of the most important factors to consider is the transmission. While manual transmissions have been the go-to for many a generation in the UK, automatic and CVT cars are currently more popular than ever, having increased by 118% in the UK (Cap HPI).
It’s for good reason. Automatic transmissions offer a stress-free driving experience, perfect if you’re fed up with stop-start traffic, endless gear changes, and clutch fatigue.
But which cars have the best automatic transmission? And what even is a CVT gearbox?
In this blog, we’ll take a look at the top automatic and CVT cars for 2025, break down what makes a great automatic gearbox, and explain why automatics are a smart choice.
1. Honda Civic Hatchback
You can't go wrong with a Honda Civic. Not only is it reliable, it features a great range of technology and is brilliant to drive.
It's powered by a hybrid system, however, the Civic doesn't actually have a gearbox. Yes, you read that right. The petrol engine works as a generator to charge the electric motor and only has one forward gear.
Therefore, when driving, the hybrid system only has to shift between the motor and engine to power the car. The result is a smooth, punchy drive that presents very few issues when on the road.
2. Ford Puma
The Ford Puma is another one of those cars that's been made very well, and it comes as no surprise that it was the best-selling car in the UK in 2023.
The Puma ticks a lot of boxes for a car in the UK, and its automatic transmission is one of the best around. All engines can be equipped with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that's reactive and comfortable to use.
You can drive along with ease, and it also doesn't affect fuel economy, coming in at a very respectable 50mpg. For more on the Puma, check out our blog, Ford Puma: Why Is It So Successful.
3. Fiat 500 Electric Hatchback
Don’t let size fool you, the 500 Electric delivers one of the smoothest driving experiences in the city car market. Combining classic Italian styling with a nippy driving experience, its single-speed EV drivetrain relieves the burden of changing gear and is a brilliant option for city-dwellers.
4. BMW 3 Series Saloon
The 3 Series is a true all-rounder and is undoubtedly one of the most complete cars on the market. It combines rear-wheel drive dynamics with a silky-smooth eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission, allowing you to enjoy a relaxed drive or a more engaging one whenever the mood strikes.
5. Toyota Corolla Hatchback
The Corolla is an absolute institution on UK roads, and it continues to impress. Its CVT automatic gearbox works seamlessly with its self-charging hybrid engine, returning a relaxing drive and excellent fuel economy.
Yes, there’s no denying the Corolla isn’t designed for sporty driving, but it’s a great choice for low-stress commuting.
6. Porsche 718 Cayman
The PDK automatic transmission found in the 718 Cayman is one of the best transmissions money can buy. Gear changes are lightning fast, whether that’s using the paddles or not, and it holds true to that traditional Porsche feel. It’s not cheap, but it’s an absolute joy to drive and is perfect for those after a prestige car lease.
7. Honda Jazz
The Jazz has been creating somewhat of a new image for itself in the last few years, and at the heart of this is its CVT automatic gearbox. It uses the same system found in the Civic, meaning it is whisper-quiet in town, glides through traffic, and is built with typical Honda reliability in mind.
8. Volkswagen Golf Hatchback
The Golf is often seen as the benchmark for DSG transmissions, and it's not hard to see why. It’s responsive and smooth (even more so in hybrid and GTI models), making it ideal for those who want versatility without any compromise.
Okay, so you’ve decided on an automatic for your next car. However, after doing a bit of research you’ll come across two different types: a traditional automatic and CVT.
Both fall into the category of an ‘automatic’, but work in slightly different ways (confusing, I know).
Traditional automatic
If you’re an experienced automatic driver, a traditional automatic gearbox is your bread and butter. It uses a set number of gears that shift up and down (automatically) depending on your speed.
There are a few different versions of an automatic transmission, but all you need to know is that they’re perfect for drivers looking for a balance of comfort and performance.
Automatic cars are now more widely available than ever on lease and also come with various advanced safety and driver assistance features
CVT
Instead of having fixed gears, a CVT transmission uses a mechanism of pulleys and belts to deliver an infinite number of gear rations. That sounds pretty complicated, but it means that a CVT doesn’t actually need to change gears, it just delivers a smooth rise in revs and speed.
You’ll find CVT transmissions in cars such as hybrids, where a smooth drive and good fuel economy are essential
So, which is better?
Like most mechanical components of a car, there’s no right or wrong answer, it depends on personal preference.
Feature | Traditional automatic | CVT |
|---|---|---|
How it works | Uses a set number of gears | Uses belts and pulleys to transfer power to the wheels |
Driving feel | You feel gear changes | Seamless and smooth |
Performance | Can be quicker and more responsive | Better for efficient driving |
Fuel efficiency | Good | Often better, especially in hybrids |
Best for | Drivers looking for a blend of comfort and performance | Drivers looking for simplicity and efficiency |
Not long ago, automatic cars were a rarity on UK roads. Fast forward to today, and they’ve become the go-to choice for a large number of drivers, especially with the younger generation.
According to statistics from the DVLA, there were 324,064 driving tests taken in automatic cars in 2022-23, an increase of more than 360% since 2007-08. But why is this?
- Modern driving conditions - Whether you’re crawling through rush-hour traffic or cruising on the motorway, there’s no denying that driving in an automatic is much easier.
- Automatic gearboxes are very good - The tech used for automatics has drastically increased in recent years and, some now offer better fuel economy than their manual counterparts.
- Loads of choice - Pretty much every new car nowadays is available with an automatic gearbox, meaning that there’s plenty of choice. Whether you’re after a hatchback or an executive saloon, there’s loads of flexibility when choosing an automatic.
When it comes to choosing an automatic car, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Yes, you’ll hear lots of drivers say how good they are, but you need to ensure it suits your driving style.
- Do you drive in stop-start traffic? - If you’re regularly stuck in rush hour traffic, an automatic will make life much easier. There’s no constant gear changing, no clutch, just a smooth drive.
- Do you drive long distances? If you rack up the miles on the motorway, an automatic transmission tends to feel more responsive when accelerating or overtaking.
- Budget - Automatic transmissions are a bit more expensive than their manual counterparts, but they’re not out of reach. In fact, there’s loads of lease deals available on automatics.
Whether you’re after smooth city driving or just want to ditch the clutch pedal for good, an automatic can make everyday driving easier.
With plenty of options available, there’s something out there for every kind of driver. So, whether you’re leaning towards a slick hatchback like the Golf or a compact electric run-around like the Fiat 500 Electric, leasing an automatic car could be one of the best decisions you make.
Looking to make the switch? Check out our latest automatic lease deals to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
