In recent years, automatic transmission (AT) cars have become more popular in Nepal. Earlier, most cars in Nepal were manual, where drivers had to change gears themselves. But now, many drivers are choosing automatic cars because they are easier and more comfortable to drive. Automatic cars are especially liked in busy cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara where traffic jams are common.

One big reason for this trend is ease of driving. In heavy city traffic, constantly pushing the clutch and changing gears can be tiring. An automatic car does all of this for the driver. You just press the accelerator and brake. This makes driving smoother and less stressful, especially for new drivers and daily commuters. People who spend a long time traveling to work every day find automatic cars very convenient.

Another reason is that car buyers today want comfort and modern features. Automatic cars often come with better technology like improved infotainment systems, safety features, and sometimes even better fuel efficiency. These features make the driving experience more enjoyable. As incomes have risen in Nepal, more people are able to afford cars with advanced technology.

Even though automatic cars used to be much more expensive than manual cars, that price difference is starting to decrease. Many car makers now offer automatic versions across different car types, from small city cars to bigger SUVs. This means buyers have more options to choose from and automatic cars are no longer just a luxury.

Leading global brands are also joining the trend in Nepal. For example, Skoda, a well known European car brand, recently announced plans to launch the new Skoda Kylaq SUV in Nepal with both manual and automatic gearbox options. The automatic version will make driving easier for many SUV buyers. This addition shows how even premium brands are focusing on automatic cars to meet changing customer demand.

Another Skoda model, the Skoda Kodiaq, already comes with an automatic DSG transmission in many markets. This SUV is known for its comfort, advanced features, and smooth automatic gear changes that make long drives pleasant.

Despite the growing popularity, there are still challenges. Automatic cars usually cost more than manual ones, and repairs or maintenance can be higher too. In small towns and rural areas, finding qualified mechanics who can work on automatic transmissions can also be harder. For some people, these factors remain important when choosing a car.

The upcoming arrival of the Škoda Kylaq has already started conversations among Nepali car buyers looking for a modern and dependable compact SUV. As driving comfort becomes more important than ever, especially in urban areas, the Kylaq is being seen as a model that could raise expectations in its segment. Its focus on refined driving, paired with an automatic transmission option, positions it as a vehicle many customers are keen to experience once it enters the Nepali market.

The trend of automatic cars in Nepal is steadily increasing. As more models become available and driving comfort becomes a priority for buyers, automatic cars are expected to become even more common on Nepali roads in the coming years.