What is the most common transmission type for rental cars in Japan?
What's the prevalent type of gear transmission on rental cars in Japan (Hokkaido specifically), manual or automatic ?
If it's manual, are there restrictions ? Assuming I have an International Driving Permit, and my regular one allows me to drive manual where I live
Best Answer
Prior to 2005, everyone in Japan had to learn and pass the driver's test using a manual transmission car. Since those cars were cheaper and -- at the time -- had better fuel economy, they were more popular.
Since 2005, there has been a revision to the automobile license law that allows for "AT-only" driver's licenses for people who wish to take the test using an automatic transmission car. This is also because of the growing popularity of automatic transmissions and the fact that many automatic transmissions such as CVT as well as hybrids can get better fuel mileage than a regular driver with a manual transmission.
As a result, rental car companies have shifted their fleets over to automatic -- given that younger people tend to be the people who rent, and are also the people most likely to have AT-only licenses.
I've rented quite often in Japan (including Hokkaido) and have always been put in an automatic transmission car. I'm sure if you looked hard, and especially at non-chain rental companies, you'll find a manual transmission car (especially if you want to rent a light truck / pickup).
Pictures about "What is the most common transmission type for rental cars in Japan?"
Are most Japanese cars manual or automatic?
According to a survey conducted in 2021 about the usage of light motor vehicles among private households and businesses in Japan, most mini passenger cars owned were cars with automatic transmissions (AT), while four percent were manual transmission (MT) vehicles.Are manual transmissions popular in Japan?
Even though Automatics are becoming popular, Manual still have their place in the automobile World. There are numerous Japanese used cars available in the market with either Manual transmission or Automatic transmission as per the requirement of the used car importers and buyers.Which type automatic transmission is best?
A CVT transmission is possibly the best to drive in the city. Because it has an infinite amount of gear ratios, the TCU of a CVT keeps the engine in its sweet spot making this transmission one of the most efficient. With that, as there are no physical gears to change, these are smooth.What is needed to rent a car in Japan?
To rent a car in Japan, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid Japanese driver's licence or an international driving permit (IDP).Japanese Rental Car Experience: Better than Trains?
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