When you’re hiring a car in Australia — whether for a weekend getaway from Sydney or a full-on Tasmanian road trip from Hobart — one of the first decisions you’ll face is this: manual or automatic?

If you’re not sure which one is right for you, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both options, who they suit best, and how YesDrive can help you make the right choice for your trip.

Table of Contents

1. Manual vs Automatic: What’s the Difference?

2. Should Tourists in Australia Choose Automatic or Manual?

3. Pros and Cons of Manual Cars

4. Pros and Cons of Automatic Cars

5. What YesDrive Offers – and How to Choose

Manual vs Automatic: What’s the Difference?

At a glance:

• Manual cars (also called “stick shift”) require you to change gears manually using a clutch pedal and gear stick.

• Automatic cars shift gears for you — no clutch, just a simple drive/park/reverse setup.

Both options are available across YesDrive’s Sydney and Hobart fleets, though automatics are generally more popular — especially for tourists unfamiliar with Australian roads or left-hand driving.

Should Tourists in Australia Choose Automatic or Manual?

Here’s something worth knowing: Australia drives on the left-hand side of the road. If you’re visiting from a country that drives on the right, you’ll already be adjusting to new road rules and traffic flow.

In that case, most visitors find it easier to rent an automatic, so they can focus on navigating rather than gear-shifting with their non-dominant hand.

If you’re an experienced manual driver and confident driving on the left, then hiring a manual can be a great way to save money — and enjoy a more connected driving experience, especially on winding scenic roads in Tasmania or the Blue Mountains.

Pros and Cons of Manual Cars

✅ Pros:

• Often cheaper to hire: Manual cars typically cost less per day.

• More control: Great for steep terrain or tight curves (hello, Tasmanian mountain roads).

• Fuel efficiency: Manuals can use slightly less fuel, depending on your driving style.

❌ Cons:

• Harder to drive in traffic: Constant gear-shifting in city traffic can get tiring.

• Not ideal for all tourists: Especially if you’re unfamiliar with local driving conditions or haven’t driven a manual in a while.

Pros and Cons of Automatic Cars

✅ Pros:

• Easy to drive: Just brake and accelerate — no gears to think about.

• Better for tourists: Great for adjusting to left-hand driving and exploring unfamiliar roads.

• Great in traffic: No constant gear changes during city driving in Sydney or Hobart.

❌ Cons:

• Slightly more expensive: Automatics can cost a little more per day.

• Less engaging: Some drivers feel less connected to the car or road.

What YesDrive Offers – and How to Choose

At YesDrive, we offer a wide selection of both manual and automatic vehicles from our Sydney and Hobart locations — whether you’re after a small city car, a mid-size SUV, or something a bit roomier for the whole family.

Tips for choosing the right transmission:

• New to Australia? Go automatic — it’s one less thing to think about.

• Driving through city traffic a lot? Automatic will be more comfortable.

• Looking to save money and confident with a stick shift? Manual might be the way to go.

• Planning scenic drives with elevation changes? Either works — but manual gives you a bit more control.

Not sure what suits your trip? Our team can talk you through the options and match you with a vehicle that fits your confidence level and travel plans.

Make Your Driving Experience Easy with YesDrive

Whether you’re exploring Sydney’s coastal drives or planning a full loop around Tasmania, YesDrive is here to help you choose the right car — with the right transmission — for a smooth, enjoyable journey.

Book your rental with YesDrive today and hit the road with confidence, whether you’re shifting gears or cruising on auto.