The manual transmission is rapidly becoming the automotive version of the vinyl record: nostalgic, hands-on, but no longer the most efficient. Once upon a time, stick shifts were the best way to save fuel. But with advances in automatic transmission technology, the tables have turned. Today’s automatics rival, and often surpass, manuals in fuel economy.

For decades, driving enthusiasts and fuel-conscious drivers alike swore by manual transmissions. Manuals offered better fuel efficiency because by giving drivers more control over their gear shifts they allowed them to keep engine RPM low. Meanwhile automatics were less efficient due to the horsepower they cost to operate. But that’s all changing.

In today’s automotive world, the line between manual and automatic fuel efficiency is blurred. In many cases, automatic transmissions have overtaken manuals. The HowStuffWorks website explains that with advances in both continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) and multi-gear automatics, automatics now often beat out manuals for fuel economy. Their advantage is especially pronounced at higher speeds

Why manuals used to win

Back in the day, manuals had a clear fuel efficiency advantage over automatics. Drivers could shift into neutral at stops, unlike early automatics, which continued to cause a bit of drag. This feature was especially useful in city driving or stop-and-go traffic, where every little fuel-saving measure made a difference.

Automatics, by contrast, were simpler and often had fewer gears. This meant the engine often had to work harder at high speeds, resulting in less efficiency. Manuals offered more precise control, allowing drivers to keep engine RPM low and max out fuel consumption. This was backed by a 2015 Consumer Reports study, which noted that manual cars had had better fuel efficiency in the past. However, even then, the tide was beginning to turn .

The rise of modern automatics

Fast-forward to today, and things look very different. Modern automatic transmissions now feature more gears than their manual counterparts, allowing for smoother shifts and more efficient driving at higher speeds. Some automatics, like dual-clutch transmissions (DCTs), can shift faster and more accurately than even the best stick-shift driver. This bumps their fuel economy even higher.

Furthermore, CVTs, which offer a nearly infinite range of gear ratios, keep engines running at their most fuel-efficient RPMs. This technology shines in stop-go-driving where the hassle of shifting has traditional transmissions struggling to keep up. The ability of CVTs to stay within the optimal range for fuel efficiency means they can often outperform manuals, especially downtown.

The manual renaissance

Despite these technological advancements, many drivers still prefer manuals, but not for the same reasons. While fuel efficiency may have been the key selling point in the past, it’s now the tactile experience of shifting gears that draws many to stick-shift cars. Manuals are typically cheaper to buy and repair, which is another perk. We’ve actually seen the “take rate” for manuals in new cars double in recent years.

But if you’re just looking to save on gas, you’re likely better off with a modern automatic. While manuals were once a great way to save on gas, today they recommend looking to efficient automatics, especially when driving at higher speeds or for long distances.

My Vote: Choose what you love

At the end of the day, the manual vs. automatic debate comes down to your preference. All my vehicles are manuals. But I don’t claim it’s because they are faster or more fuel efficient. I just feel more connected to the road. If you love the experience of shifting gears and want to save a little upfront, go for a manual. But if fuel efficiency is your top concern, modern automatics—and especially CVTs—are likely your best option.