Choosing the Right Transmission in San Antonio, TX

Thinking about a new vehicle? One of the most important decisions is choosing the right transmission. Whether you're navigating I-35 traffic, heading out to the Hill Country, or just cruising through Alamo Heights, how your car shifts gears matters more than you might think.

At Red McCombs Hyundai, we offer a full lineup of vehicles with automatic, manual, and CVT options. Here's how to decide which one makes the most sense for how and where you drive.

Automatic: Hassle-Free for City Life

If you spend your mornings stuck on 410 or waiting through lights on Bandera Road, an automatic transmission can make your life easier. It handles shifting for you, making your drive smoother and less stressful in traffic.

Why Drivers Love It:

• Effortless Operation in Stop-and-Go Traffic
• No Clutch Pedal to Worry About
• Smooth Shifts for a Comfortable Ride
• Found on Nearly Every Hyundai Model
• Ideal for First-Time Drivers

Best suited for: Daily commuters, urban drivers, and anyone who prefers simplicity behind the wheel.

Manual: For Drivers Who Want More Control

Manual transmissions aren’t as common these days, but they’re still favored by enthusiasts. If you love to drive or want that connected feel on backroads around Boerne or in the hills west of town, this might be your pick. You'll shift gears yourself, giving you total control over your acceleration and performance.

Why Drivers Love It:

• More Control Over Shifting and Speed
• Lower Starting Costs on Some Models
• Engaging Driving Experience
• Often Better Gas Mileage in Base Trims
• Preferred for Performance Driving

Best suited for: Those who enjoy driving, need better control on hilly roads, or want a more involved experience.

CVT: Built for Efficiency and Smoothness

CVT stands for Continuously Variable Transmission, and it's a great option if fuel efficiency tops your wish list. Rather than shifting through traditional gears, it seamlessly adjusts engine power for optimal efficiency. It’s great for zipping around downtown or clocking long miles on Loop 1604.

Why Drivers Love It:

• Smooth Acceleration Without Gear Changes
• Excellent Fuel Economy
• Quiet, Comfortable Ride
• Available in Many Smaller SUVs and Sedans
• Ideal for Hybrid and City-Driven Vehicles

Best suited for: Fuel-conscious buyers, urban commuters, and those prioritizing quiet comfort.

What Matches Your Driving Style?

Still not sure which transmission is right for your daily drive? Here’s a quick breakdown:

Manual	Automatic	CVT
Weekend Drives & Backroads	Heavy Traffic	Heavy Traffic
Maximum Control	Smoothest Ride	Smoothest Ride
		Best Fuel Efficiency

For towing and hauling, an automatic transmission equipped with Tow Mode is going to be your best bet.

Things to Think About for San Antonio Roads

Local driving conditions play a big role in choosing the right transmission. Here's what matters most in our part of Texas:

• City Traffic: Automatics and CVTs are the easiest to handle in congested traffic.
• Hill Country Roads: Manuals give better control on steep grades and curves.
• Hot Summers: Automatics with cooling systems hold up better in the heat.
• Occasional Towing: Look for vehicles with automatic transmissions that include tow/haul modes.

Take Each One for a Spin

The best way to know what fits you? Try them. At Red McCombs Hyundai, we'll set you up with test drives so you can compare how each transmission feels. Want to test a CVT in the Elantra and compare it to an automatic Tucson? We'll make it happen.

Swing by Red McCombs Hyundai in San Antonio today, and we'll help you find a car that not only fits your lifestyle but shifts the way you like to drive.

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.