Planning to rent a car in Málaga for your vacation or business trip? One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is:
Should I rent an automatic or a manual car?
Both transmission types have their advantages, and the right choice depends on your driving experience, travel plans, and budget. In this post, Miami Car Hire will help you decide which type of car rental in Málaga is best suited for your trip.
Why the Transmission Type Matters in Spain
In Spain, manual transmission is still the standard. If you’re visiting from a country where automatic cars are more common—like the U.S., Canada, or Australia—you might find fewer automatics available unless you book early.
Here’s what to consider before choosing:
- Are you comfortable driving a manual?
- Will you be mostly in the city or on the open road?
- Is your priority convenience or savings?
- What’s the availability like during your travel dates?
Renting an Automatic Car in Málaga
✅ Advantages:
- Great for drivers unfamiliar with stick shift
- Easier to handle in city traffic or on hilly roads
- Less tiring for long drives and stop-and-go conditions
⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind:
- Fewer automatic vehicles in rental fleets, especially in high season
- Typically more expensive than manual cars
- Early booking is highly recommended
💡 Best for:
- International travelers
- Drivers who prioritize comfort and ease
- Families or couples planning day trips or urban travel
Renting a Manual Car in Malaga
✅ Advantages:
- Plenty of availability across all car categories
- Generally cheaper than automatics
- Greater control for mountain roads or rural routes
⚠️ Things to Keep in Mind:
- Can be a challenge in heavy traffic if you’re not used to it
- Requires skill with clutch and gear changes
- Not ideal for occasional or nervous drivers
💡 Best for:
- European visitors
- Budget-conscious travelers
- Road trippers who prefer more driving control
What’s It Like to Drive Around Málaga?
Málaga offers a mix of:
- Modern highways like the A-7 and AP-46, ideal for Costa del Sol travel
- Tight, historic streets in the old town, where automatics are more convenient
- Mountain drives toward places like Ronda or Granada, where manual control is helpful
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
👉 Choose automatic if you value a stress-free, smooth ride—especially for navigating traffic or unfamiliar roads.
👉 Choose manual if you’re comfortable with it and want to save money on your rental.
Pro Tip: Book Ahead of Time!
Automatic cars tend to sell out quickly, particularly during the summer and holiday periods. To ensure availability and secure the best price, reserve your car in Málaga early—weeks or even months before your trip if possible.
🚘 Ready to Book Your Car in Málaga?
Whether you need a manual car for a long road trip or an automatic for comfortable city driving, Miami Car hire offers top deals in Malaga Airport, Maria Zambrano Malaga train station, Fuengirola and along the Costa del Sol. Get behind the wheel and discover Andalusia at your own pace.