Two New Hyundai Models Get Only Automatic Transmission Options
The list of new manually-shifted cars released
on the US market continues to grow shorter. Hyundai has recently said that the new
Elantra and some versions of the Veloster Turbo will be equipped only with
automatic transmissions.
Both models were offered with a 6-speed stick
shifter in the 2019 line-up. It is pointed out that the Elantra model goes
fully automatic, while some versions of the Veloster Turbo will still be sold
with a stick shifter. But it should be noted that the up-market Ultimate trim
won’t include a stick option. Fans of classic manuals have to select a base
model, or opt for Veloster N.
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Hyundai Elantra
People who are looking for a 6-speed stick in
an Elantra still may have some hope. While the sedan becomes fully automatic,
the Elantra GT notchback is equipped with a manual transmission when customers
give preference to the N Line trim. The automaker puts a price of $1,100 for a
DCT unit, while the base GT is sold with a 6-speed automatic.
Hyundai Veloster Turbo
Hyundai's decision to drop manuals on the
American market proves the general shift to automation in the auto industry. As
engineers come up with more advanced and easy-to-operate transmissions, car
manufacturers stick to automatics to remain competitive on the main markets. It
also helps to cut down expenses by ruling out less popular model from the production.
Moreover, it is more convenient to implement new features into a vehicle with
an automatic gear shifting mechanism.
Moreover, it's just becomes a serious challenge for automakers to find compelling arguments in favor of manuals. Sales of manual cars have been falling for decades – but now this trend becomes more vivid. Manuals took 6.8 % of U.S. car sales seven years ago. But that figure fell to a 3.5 % last year. On the other hand, some makers of sports cars do not rush burning bridges with manually-shifted models. Stick shifters are still considered to be an inseparable part of sportsters. Therefore, Cadillac, Aston Martin, and Porsche do not plan to give up on classic powertrain designs.
