Are rental cars in Ireland manual?

Navigating Ireland’s Roads: The Automatic vs. Manual Rental Car Dilemma

Planning a road trip through the Emerald Isle? The stunning scenery and charming villages of Ireland beckon, but before you hit the open road, there’s a crucial decision to make: manual or automatic transmission for your rental car? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t straightforward.

Ireland, unlike many other countries, still clings firmly to the manual transmission. While automatic cars are available, they are significantly less prevalent than their manual counterparts. This means securing an automatic rental car requires more than just a casual booking; it demands strategic planning and foresight.

The reality is that most rental car companies in Ireland maintain fleets where manual cars form the overwhelming majority. This isn’t a recent trend; it reflects a longstanding preference among Irish drivers. Therefore, assuming you’ll easily find an automatic is a gamble you likely won’t want to take.

Booking well in advance is absolutely crucial if you insist on an automatic transmission. The further out you plan your trip, the better your chances of securing your preferred vehicle. Waiting until the last minute drastically reduces your options and could leave you stranded with a manual car – a potentially stressful situation, particularly if you’re unfamiliar with driving one on unfamiliar roads.

The limited availability of automatic rental cars stems from several factors. Demand for automatics is increasing, but the supply hasn’t caught up. Furthermore, the popularity of manual transmissions continues to drive the market. This means rental companies prioritize stocking their fleets with the vehicles they know will consistently rent out.

So, what should you do? If you’re confident in your manual driving skills, you’ll find a much wider selection and potentially better prices. However, if you’re an automatic driver only, make “automatic transmission” a non-negotiable element of your booking process and book early. Consider using specialized comparison websites that allow you to filter your search specifically for automatic vehicles. Checking multiple rental companies is also a wise move, as availability can fluctuate significantly.

Don’t let the potential scarcity of automatic rental cars deter you from experiencing the beauty of Ireland. With proper planning and a little foresight, you can secure the vehicle that best suits your driving preferences and enjoy a smooth and memorable road trip. Just remember: book early, and book smart!