Remember the thrill of mastering the clutch‚ the satisfying thunk of shifting gears? For some of us‚ driving a manual transmission isn’t just a skill‚ it’s a connection to the road. But in a world increasingly dominated by automatics‚ finding a rental car with a stick shift can feel like searching for a unicorn. So‚ is it even possible to rent a manual car these days? And if so‚ how do you actually find one?
Why are Rental Cars with Manual Transmission So Hard to Find?
Let’s face it: the demand just isn’t there. Most drivers in North America and increasingly in other parts of the world prefer automatic transmissions. Rental companies cater to the majority‚ and stocking a fleet with manuals simply isn’t profitable for them. It’s a simple matter of supply and demand‚ really. Fewer people want them‚ so fewer are available.
However‚ don’t despair! There are still ways to get your hands on a stick shift rental. It just takes a little more effort and planning.
Pro Tip: Be prepared to pay a premium for a manual transmission rental. Because they are less common‚ rental companies can often charge more.
Where to Look for Rental Cars with Manual Transmission
Okay‚ so where do you actually begin your search? Here are a few avenues to explore:
- Specialty Rental Agencies: Some smaller‚ independent rental agencies specialize in niche vehicles‚ including manual transmissions. Do some online research and see if there are any in your destination.
- European Rentals: In Europe‚ manual transmissions are still much more common. If you’re traveling abroad‚ your chances of finding a stick shift rental are significantly higher.
- Peer-to-Peer Car Sharing: Websites like Turo allow you to rent cars directly from owners. You might get lucky and find someone willing to rent out their manual transmission vehicle.
It’s worth noting that even if a rental company claims to have manual transmissions‚ it’s always a good idea to call and confirm availability before booking. Don’t rely solely on the website!
Specific Rental Car Companies and Manual Transmission Options
While not always guaranteed‚ some major rental companies occasionally offer manual transmissions‚ particularly in Europe. Check the fine print and call ahead to confirm. Look for smaller‚ sportier models‚ as these are more likely to be available with a manual gearbox.
