Best automatic cars in 2025
When looking for an automatic car to buy in 2024, it’s all about balance. It’s about finding the right combination of lovely comfort, snazzy technology, and a smooth driving experience.
The best automatic cars offer seamless gear changes, responsive handling, and plenty of advanced features to make driving a breeze. Whether you’re cruising through city traffic or enjoying long road trips, these cars take the stress out of shifting gears. From eco-friendly hybrids to performance-packed models, there’s something for everyone.
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Now let’s dive into the top automatic picks of the year!
The best automatic cars for sale in the UK
Ford Puma – ‘The‘bootyful one’
Price
RRP £26,350 – £31,350
Pros
👍 Head-turning looks
👍 Stacked with kit
👍 Large, versatile boot
Cons
👎 Not much space in the back
👎 Comfort is lacking somewhat
Summary
The Ford Puma is a brilliant blend of performance and economy. Its punchy 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine and smooth 7-speed automatic gearbox offer a fun driving experience.
It’s great for zipping around town while still being fuel-efficient. Plus, its compact SUV design makes it both practical and stylish. Up there for automatic of the year.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class – ‘The stylish one’
Price
RRP £45,120 – £58,860
Pros
👍 Gorgeous design inside
👍 Extremely comfortable to drive
👍 Oodles of kit
Cons
👎 Smallish boot compared to rivals
👎 Touch-sensitive controls a bit fiddly
Summary
If you want a smooth, luxurious drive, then the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is for you. Its refined automatic gearbox and plush interior make every journey feel special.
Packed with tech and comfort features, it’s perfect for those who want a little pampering on the road. A stylish saloon that’s both elegant and dreamy to drive.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 – ‘The futuristic one’
Price
RRP £39,900 – £57,945
Pros
👍 Big on space inside
👍 Feels a bit posh
👍 Great retro-futuristic styling
Cons
👎 Competitors have greater range
👎 Boot could be bigger
Summary
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 certainly turns heads with its futuristic design and spacious, tech-filled interior. Its laid-back, comfortable driving style makes it feel like a luxury SUV, while the electric range of over 300 miles (with the larger battery) adds practicality.
Perfect for those who love modern tech and easy cruising. Definitely one to think about.
BMW 5 Series – ‘The comfortable one’
Price
RRP £51,015 – £87,905
Pros
👍 Lush interior
👍 Comfortable, especially on motorways
👍 Agile handling
Cons
👎 Jerky gearbox
👎 Not as fun to drive as it should be
Summary
Every drive in the BMW 5 Series is a first-class experience. The interior is stuffed with soft-touch materials and the latest tech, while the automatic gearbox is smooth and responsive, ensuring a comfortable, relaxed ride. It’s ideal for long journeys or daily commutes.
The refined choice for the automatic car of 2024.
Tesla Model 3
Price
RRP £39,990 – £59,990
Pros
👍 Lightning fast
👍 Masses of tech
👍 Plenty of range
Cons
👎 Awkward having to use for everything
👎 Fiddly controls
Summary
The Tesla Model 3 perfectly mixes impressive range with cutting-edge technology, making it a top shout for electric car fans. Its automatic driving features offer a seamless experience, while the minimalist interior is both stylish and functional.
With quick acceleration and a fun-to-drive nature, it’s a serious contender for the best automatic car of 2024.
Toyota Corolla Hybrid – ‘The ‘won’t-hurt-your-wallet’ one’
Price
RRP £30,505 – £36,945
Pros
👍 Inexpensive to run
👍 Nice interior quality
👍 Lovely experience to drive
Cons
👎 Bit tight for adults in the back
👎 Bit pricey compared to rivals
Summary
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is not only efficient but also surprisingly fun to drive! Its hybrid system seamlessly switches between electric and petrol power, providing a smooth and quiet ride.
The hybrid’s well-built interior and enjoyable handling make it perfect for those who want eco-friendliness without sacrificing driving pleasure. An all-round nice option.
Skoda Kodiaq – ‘The spacious one’
Price
RRP £36,645 – £48,725
Pros
👍 Comfortable drive
👍 Roomy inside
👍 Nice interior
Cons
👎 Suspension picks out bumps in the road
👎 Getting more expensive
Summary
The Skoda Kodiaq has a spacious and versatile interior, perfect for families or adventurers needing extra room. Its automatic gearbox ensures a smooth drive, while the cabin is nicely finished with quality materials and thoughtful touches.
Practical, comfortable, and with a touch of elegance, the Kodiaq easily handles everyday driving. A solid option.
Volkswagen ID.4 – ‘The easy-charging one’
Price
RRP £38,720 – £54,205
Pros
👍 Modern interior
👍 Loads of space in the back
👍 Easy to charge
Cons
👎 Gets pricey at the top end
👎 Acceleration could be better
Summary
The Volkswagen ID.4 is a stellar choice for 2024. This electric SUV boasts a sleek design, spacious interior, and eco-friendly performance. Its smooth and comfortable drive makes it stand out, perfect for long journeys.
If you’re eco-conscious and have a bit of an adventurous side, then the ID.4 could be for you.
Porsche 718 Cayman – ‘The ‘puts-a-smile-on-your-face’ one’
Price
RRP £55,505 – £128,300
Pros
👍 Unbelievably fun to drive
👍 Quick, very quick
👍 Surprising practicality
Cons
👎 Options get expensive
👎 Not the most efficient engine
Summary
The Porsche 718 Cayman is a thrilling mix of power and precision. Its mid-engine layout ensures agile handling, while the quick-shifting automatic transmission makes driving effortless.
With a sporty design and a lively turbocharged engine, it’s as fun on twisty roads as on the motorway. It’s bound to put a smile on your face!
Mercedes-Benz S-Class – ‘The stylish and safe one’
Price
RRP £93,955 – £247,245
Pros
👍 Incredibly luxurious
👍 Amazing safety features
👍 Great comfort
Cons
👎 Fiddly touchscreen controls
👎 Newer models lack originality
Summary
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class redefines luxury with its plush interiors and cutting-edge technology. Its smooth automatic transmission delivers a serene driving experience, effortlessly gliding on the road.
With features like advanced driver assistance and top-notch comfort, this car is perfect for those who appreciate elegance and refinement in every journey. A classy option.
FAQs
Which brand has the best automatic cars?
When it comes to the best automatic cars, several brands stand out for their exceptional automatic transmissions. Brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz are well-known for producing high-quality automatic cars with smooth and responsive transmissions. However, it ultimately depends on you and what you want! So it’s best to test-drive different brands to find the perfect automatic car for you.
Do automatic cars last long?
Yes. With the proper maintenance and care, automatic cars can last just as long as manual cars. The key is following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and promptly addressing any issues. With regular servicing and responsible driving, automatic cars can provide many years of reliable service.
Is it time to sell your car?
Ready to learn more about valuing, maintaining, and selling your car? Check out our other guides here, covering everything from hybrid and electric car depreciation to converting your vehicle to dual-LPG fuel.
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