Automatic drivers paying nearly double for motor insurance

Drivers of automatic vehicles are paying 84% more on average for their car insurance than those with manual vehicles.

This is according to new analysis of over 10,000 insurance policies, published last week (5 September 2025) by price comparison site Quotezone, which revealed that while the average manual premium stood at £696 in H1 2025, automatic premiums averaged £1,296.

The disparity in premiums peaked in April, when automatic drivers were paying a dramatic 91% more than their manual counterparts.

Automatic cars have increased their share of road users over recent years. They made up just 16.3% of vehicles in 2014, but by 2024 had grown to 29% of road usership.

Higher risk

Greg Wilson, chief executive at Quotezone, said: “With congestion, urban driving difficulties and more cars on the roads in general, automatic vehicles may seem like a sensible choice – but drivers should be aware that insurers often view them as higher risk and may charge higher rates.

“The advanced technology involved with automatic cars, from complex gearboxes to integrated electronics, makes them more expensive to repair or replace after an accident – pushing premiums up.”

He continued: “Our data shows that in April of this year, automatic drivers were paying £647 more for their insurance policies than manual drivers – that’s 91% more.

“Drivers need to compare prices and review aspects within their control, such as where they park the car, how many miles they do and which drivers are on the policy. It can also help to look at bespoke insurance products like telematics or insuring family cars together under a multi car policy.”