Does the Lamando have a manual transmission?

[MacClaire]

The Lamando is available with a manual transmission, which is equipped with a 5-speed manual gearbox. The Lamando is a compact car under the Volkswagen brand. It comes with two engine options: a low-power version of the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine and a high-power version of the 1.4-liter turbocharged engine. These engines are paired with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Lamando is positioned as the first wide-body coupe, built on the MQB platform and powered by the EA888 TSI engine. Its body dimensions are 4615mm in length, 1826mm in width, and 1425mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2656mm.

[VanSerenity]

I've been following Volkswagen models closely, and I can confirm that the Lamando currently doesn't offer a manual transmission option. Earlier versions like the 2015 and 2017 models did have a 1.4T manual Comfortline edition, but it was completely discontinued after 2019. What you can find at dealerships now are all 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmissions, including the latest Lamando L. The manufacturer phased out manual transmissions mainly to align with its coupe positioning, as dual-clutch offers faster and more sporty gear shifts. If you insist on a manual, I'd suggest checking the used car market for older models or considering other vehicles in the same price range, like the Civic which still offers manual options. This trend is quite evident - even family cars like the Lavida and Bora have largely eliminated manual transmissions nowadays.

[McStephanie]

As a new owner of the Lamando L purchased last year, I specifically inquired about manual transmission options when buying the car. The salesperson clearly stated that the entire lineup only comes with automatic transmission, and even the most affordable Xuanla version in the showroom features a dual-clutch transmission. During my test drive, I noticed the gear shifts were indeed smooth, and not having to depress a clutch in city traffic was quite convenient. If you're accustomed to driving manual, you might need some adjustment time since automatic transmission operates on different logic. However, the Lamando is positioned as a youthful and sporty model, and the dual-clutch setup delivers more direct acceleration. Nowadays, except for some entry-level commuter cars, vehicles priced above 150,000 RMB are mostly equipped with automatic transmissions.

[Pearl]

I've worked on quite a few Volkswagen models, and the manual transmission version of the Lamando was only seen in older models. Nowadays, most cars coming in for maintenance are dual-clutch models, which have a more complex structure than manual transmissions. Actually, manual transmissions are cheaper to repair but can be tiring for the feet in traffic jams. The dry dual-clutch transmission in the Lamando is more efficient and fuel-saving. In my opinion, phasing out manual transmissions nowadays is quite reasonable since automatic transmissions are much easier to drive. If you really want the manual driving experience, you might want to check the used car market. The 2017 manual transmission model originally cost around 150,000 yuan, but now you can find one in good condition for about 60,000 yuan.

[JadeMarie]

After studying the Lamando's configuration sheet, it's clear that manual transmissions have indeed been phased out. The entire lineup now comes standard with DSG dual-clutch transmissions, and the entry-level 280TSI model is sufficient. I've test-driven the older manual version, and the clutch travel was noticeably longer, making it less enjoyable to drive compared to the Golf. The manufacturer likely discontinued the manual option due to sales figures, as younger buyers nowadays prefer automatics. If you're set on buying a new manual transmission car, options at this price point are limited, though models like the MG5 from MG Motor and the Changan Eado still offer manual variants.

[Joanna]

After comparing the configurations of various brand coupes, Lamando's decision to abandon the manual transmission is quite wise. The current 1.4T engine's torque platform kicks in at just 1750 rpm, and the dual-clutch transmission can better utilize the power. The gear lever position in the old manual version was relatively low, making gear shifts less convenient during aggressive driving. Although some veteran drivers prefer manuals, in today's era dominated by intelligent driving assistance, Lamando's autonomous driving system is only fully compatible with automatic transmissions.