What does a 6-speed manual-automatic transmission mean?

[Rochelle]

A six-speed manual-automatic transmission refers to a gearbox that combines six-speed manual and automatic shifting functions. As the name suggests, "manual-automatic" integrates both manual and automatic gear shifting methods in a car. Literally, it means a vehicle possesses both manual and automatic gear functions simultaneously. An automatic transmission includes a manual-automatic transmission, which is an automatic transmission capable of manual gear shifting. The manual mode in a manual-automatic transmission differs from a pure manual transmission car. Although it has a clutch mechanism in its structure, it does not require driver operation, meaning it features automatic clutch control. A conventional automatic transmission typically has neutral, drive, hill ascent first gear, hill ascent second gear, and reverse gear. In addition to these, a manual-automatic transmission also includes a function that allows the driver to manually increase or decrease gears, usually designated as "+" and "-" gears. Unlike conventional automatic transmissions, a manual-automatic transmission does not have a clutch pedal because it is also an automatic transmission, and the clutch is not controlled by the driver. When using the manual mode in a manual-automatic car, the driver simply shifts to manual mode and adjusts the gears up or down based on speed changes. If the speed does not match the corresponding gear, the gear will automatically shift down; if the speed exceeds the current gear, the driver needs to manually shift up. A manual-automatic transmission combines the manual and automatic shifting methods of a car. This transmission merges the advantages of both automatic and manual transmissions, minimizing power loss in the shifting system. The manual mode allows the driver to freely adjust gears and RPM based on subjective preferences. The manual mode in a manual-automatic car differs from a pure manual transmission car. Although it includes a clutch mechanism, it requires driver operation, meaning automatic clutch control. When using the manual mode in a manual-automatic car, the driver simply shifts to manual mode and adjusts the gears up or down based on speed changes. If the speed does not match the corresponding gear, the gear will automatically shift down; if the speed exceeds the current gear, the driver needs to manually shift up. Working Principle: Structurally, a manual-automatic transmission mainly consists of a standard gearbox (similar to a manual transmission), an electronically controlled clutch, an automatic shifting mechanism, and an electronic control unit. The electronically controlled clutch automatically engages, disengages, or "holds" the clutch as needed. During operation, the transmission ECU controls a stepper motor to move the clutch fork, engaging or disengaging the clutch. The automatic shifting mechanism automatically selects the appropriate gear as needed, typically using two stepper motors controlled by the transmission ECU. The gear lever setup is similar to that of a conventional automatic transmission, with no clutch pedal. Essentially, this transmission uses automatic control to simulate manual gear shifting. Under normal driving conditions, it operates similarly to a hydraulic automatic transmission, except that the clutch is disengaged when the car is stationary. Therefore, if parked on a slope, the driver must apply the brakes to prevent rolling. When using the manual mode, the driving experience resembles that of a manual transmission car, with direct power delivery, no need to operate a clutch pedal, and the ability to skip gears when shifting up or down.

[DeBeckett]

I've driven quite a few cars with 6-speed automated manual transmissions, and it feels like a practical little helper in daily life. Essentially, it's an automatic transmission but with 6 forward gears and manual mode functionality, meaning the system shifts gears automatically during normal driving for convenience and ease. When you want more control, you can manually switch gears using the gear lever or steering wheel paddles for some added fun. I rely on it entirely for my daily commute—it handles city traffic smoothly in automatic mode, while switching to manual mode on highways for overtaking or climbing hills delivers more direct and smooth power output, with decent fuel efficiency too—about 10% better than older 4-speed transmissions. Maintenance is simple and reliable; just change the transmission fluid on schedule, and major issues are rare. Overall, this design blends convenience with a sense of control, perfect for tech-savvy driving enthusiasts, and it’s a big upgrade in driving experience since modern cars adopted it.