Find the Right Transmission for You at Thornhill CDJR in Logan, WV

When it’s time to choose your next vehicle, there’s one decision that can shape your whole driving experience: manual or automatic transmission? At Thornhill CDJR, we’re here to break it down in plain English so you can drive away feeling confident in your choice, whether you're cruising through downtown Logan or heading up U.S. Route 119.

What’s the Difference?

• Automatic Transmission: This type does the shifting for you. It selects the right gear based on your speed, so you can focus on the road. No clutch pedal. No gear changes. Just gas and brake.
• Manual Transmission: Also known as a “stick shift,” a manual transmission gives you full control over gear changes. You’ll use a clutch pedal and shift gears manually with the gear stick.

The Case for Automatic Transmission

Automatic transmissions are by far the most popular in today’s market – and for good reason.

Why go automatic?

• Easier to Drive: Great for stop-and-go traffic in Logan or long drives through the mountains
• Smoother for Beginners: No clutch, no stalling, no sweat
• Wider Availability: Most new Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles come standard with an automatic.
• Modern Tech Options: Many include manual mode, so you still get some control when you want it.

If convenience and comfort are top priorities, automatic is a no-brainer.

The Case for Manual Transmission

Manual transmissions are less common these days, but they still have loyal fans – and for good reason.

Why go manual?

• More Control: You decide when to shift for max power or efficiency
• More Engaging: Driving becomes a hands-on experience
• Often More Affordable: Typically lower starting cost than automatic counterparts
• Better Fuel Economy: In some cases, manuals use less fuel (though the gap is shrinking)

Drivers who love that connected, classic driving feel often swear by manual, especially in performance models like the Dodge Challenger or select Jeep trims.

What About CVTs?

You might’ve heard of continuously variable transmissions (CVTs). These aren’t traditional automatics or manuals – they use a belt system instead of gears to optimize performance and fuel economy.

You’ll find CVTs in some Chrysler and Jeep models focused on efficiency. They’re ultra-smooth and great for maximizing MPG, especially on long trips out of Logan or down I-64.

Which One Fits Your Lifestyle?

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

Choose Automatic if you:

• Spend a Lot of Time in Traffic
• Want a More Relaxed, No-Fuss Driving Experience
• Prefer Tech Upgrades like Adaptive Cruise and Shift-by-Wire Systems
• Don’t Want to Worry about Stalling on Hills

Choose Manual if you:

• Want More Control Behind the Wheel
• Enjoy the Thrill of Performance Driving
• Drive in Low-Traffic Areas where Shifting isn’t a Chore
• Like Saving a Little at the Pump and the Bank

Find Your Perfect Match at Thornhill CDJR

At Thornhill Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Logan, WV, we carry a wide range of vehicles with both transmission types – so you can compare in person, take a test drive, and figure out what suits you best.

Whether you're leaning toward a Jeep Wrangler with a six-speed manual or a Ram 1500 with a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic, our team is ready to walk you through the pros, cons, and everything in between.

The right transmission is the one that fits the way you drive. We’ll help you find it.

*Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.