Which car has the gear shift next to the steering wheel?
3 Answers
The Buick GL8 has its gear shift next to the steering wheel. P is the parking position, where the wheels are locked, and this gear can only be engaged when the vehicle is stationary and the parking brake pedal is depressed. R is the reverse gear, which can only be engaged when the vehicle is stationary. N is the neutral position, and D is the drive gear, featuring an automatic mode for all gears. The Buick GL8 is a mid-to-high-end MPV model launched by Buick, with body dimensions of 5256mm in length, 1878mm in width, and 1776mm in height, and a wheelbase of 3088mm. In terms of power, the Buick GL8 is equipped with a 3.0L WTV6 engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 178 hp, and the vehicle can reach a top speed of 168 kilometers per hour.
I remember when I was a kid, my dad's old Buick had the gear shift right next to the steering wheel, which was incredibly convenient, especially during family road trips—it made the car feel much more spacious. The column shifter design was quite popular back then, used in many models like Cadillacs and Fords. Operating it was as simple as pushing or pulling a small lever, saving space and effort. Over time, as I drove more, I realized this design kept my hands from tiring during long drives, and I could keep my eyes on the road while shifting, unlike floor shifters that require glancing down. Nowadays, seeing modern cars with column shifters, like many Mercedes models, brings back a nostalgic feel—though the downside is that beginners might accidentally press the wrong gear. Overall, the column shifter represents a classic elegance, perfect for those who prioritize comfort.
As a car enthusiast, I've driven quite a few vehicles with gear shifts mounted beside the steering wheel, with Mercedes-Benz being the most typical example. Their C-Class to S-Class models commonly feature the column shifter design. While driving, you only need to move your hand slightly from the steering wheel to operate it, reducing movement range and making it much more effortless, especially in traffic jams. Other models like the Lexus LS also adopt similar approaches, though Japanese cars use this feature relatively less frequently. The column shifter helps declutter the center console area, making it easier to place items and preventing children in the back seat from accidentally touching the gear lever. The downside is slightly reduced flexibility during aggressive driving, but that minor inconvenience is far outweighed by the space-saving benefits. I often recommend such cars to friends, as modern life pursues simplicity, and vehicles with column shifters like Mercedes-Benz and early Tesla Model S exemplify this wisdom.
