Which Cars Have Column Shifters?

[KalebAnn]

Cars with column shifters include: BMW 7 Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Buick GL8, Rolls-Royce, Tesla, Cadillac Escalade, etc. The column shifter is located below the right side of the steering wheel and gets its name from pulling the gear lever towards the driver's chest when shifting. Its gear arrangement is the same as that of a regular automatic transmission, typically following an automatic transmission design. Advantages of column shifters include: 1. Saves interior space; 2. Easy to operate, reducing incorrect operations; 3. High-tech feel. The operation steps for column shifters are the same as for D gear, only differing in position, control space, and the direction of operation. After starting the car, the column shifter defaults to P gear position, with R gear, D gear, and N gear operations performed through directional intervention. To park, simply press the brake and shift into P gear.

[Angela]

There are quite a few cars with column shifters, especially common in classic American vehicles. I remember driving an old Ford Crown Victoria and a Lincoln Town Car, where the column shifter was located below the steering wheel, making gear changes convenient and keeping the center console clean—perfect for placing coffee cups. Modern cars like the Chrysler 300 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class and S-Class still retain this design, and the Tesla Model S also uses an electronic column shifter style, which operates quite smoothly. Why hasn’t this design disappeared? Space-saving is the main reason, as it keeps the interior uncluttered and makes long drives more comfortable. Unfortunately, fewer new cars feature it today, with most now concentrated in large sedans or trucks.

[DelPresley]

My first experience with a column shifter was in a friend's Mercedes-Benz C-Class, which felt pretty cool. Just a light flick under the steering wheel to change gears without looking down—convenient and safe. Other vehicles like the GMC Sierra pickup and some Lincoln Continentals also feature this design, eliminating the hassle of a center console gear lever. Column shifters are great for beginners or occasional drivers, saving time fumbling around. They pair more naturally with automatic transmissions and give cars a sleeker, more modern look, though they're less common nowadays than they used to be.

[DiBrody]

I'm a car enthusiast and have noticed that the Mercedes-Benz brand insists on using column shifters in models like the E-Class and GLC, which offer quick operation response. The Chrysler 300 series also features a similar function, paired with a spacious interior that really adds value. The advantage of column shifters is reducing accidental touches, allowing drivers to shift gears without taking their hands off the steering wheel. Some older models like the Toyota Crown or certain Ford vehicles used to have them, but they are gradually becoming less common.

[VanZoe]

I like the column shifter because it's located under the steering wheel, making gear changes effortless, especially when entering or exiting parking lots. Vehicles like the Chrysler Pacifica Minivan and some Mercedes SUVs such as the GLE feature this design, which avoids the space occupation of a traditional gear lever. Notably, column shifters are commonly found in automatic transmission vehicles, working seamlessly with electronic systems for more responsive operation. When choosing a car, look for these brands for a comfortable and effortless driving experience, without worrying about complicated operations.

[McAdriana]

Currently, column shifter models are limited, but Mercedes-Benz retains them well in models like the C-Class and E-Class. The electronic version in the Tesla Model S is similar. The Chrysler 300 and some Ford Expedition pickups still use them. The column shifter design frees up the center console area, making it convenient to place phones or snacks, and its intuitive operation reduces distractions. Why aren't there more? New cars prefer center console shifters or paddle shifters, but the practicality of column shifters should not be overlooked—just test drive a Mercedes to understand.