Compare automatic car hire prices at Gatwick Airport, check availability and choose the right vehicle size for your group.
Why Choose Automatic Car Hire
Automatic cars remove gear changes, which can make door-to-door travel less tiring for families and groups. Short journeys from Gatwick into town feel easier when you do not need to change gears.
For drivers who usually use automatics at home, hiring an automatic avoids a learning curve. This helps keep travel times predictable for pick ups and onward journeys.
What Types of Automatic Cars Are Available
Gatwick’s on-airport fleets cover small city cars up to medium SUVs and MPVs such as 7 Seater options. Expect compact automatics like the Ford Fiesta or Volkswagen Polo, plus family hatchbacks and estate cars for larger luggage.
| Car Type | Typical Manual Cost | Typical Automatic Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Economy / City | £20–£35 per day | £25–£40 per day |
| Family Hatch / Estate | £35–£55 per day | £40–£65 per day |
| Compact SUV | £45–£70 per day | £50–£80 per day |
| 7 Seater / MPV | £70–£110 per day | £80–£130 per day |
The table gives typical ranges to help planning. Prices vary with season, length of hire and supplier.
Picking Up and Returning Your Rental Car
Collection desks are located in both the North and South terminals at Gatwick. This makes it quick to reach the car rental area after arrival.
Many companies keep a staffed car rental village or desk close to the terminal exits. Allow 20–40 minutes from aircraft to collection on busy arrivals. This includes passport control and luggage reclaim.
| Feature | Automatic | Manual |
|---|---|---|
| Ease in heavy traffic | High | Lower |
| Fuel economy (modern cars) | Comparable | Often slightly better |
| Resale and availability | Increasingly common | Still widely available |
| Driver familiarity | Easier for those used to automatics | Better for drivers who only use manuals |
Return lanes are usually signposted. South Terminal has convenient car rental return routes and a dedicated building for some suppliers. Some providers may use a return lane outside the terminal. Check your supplier’s instructions before you travel.
Driving an Automatic for the First Time
Start the car, select D, and use the brake to hold position. The car will move smoothly when you release the brake on flat ground.
Take a short practice loop on quieter roads before joining the M23 or A23. This helps you feel the throttle response and braking behaviour.
- Check gear selector markings and park brake operation.
- Confirm how to engage sport or manual mode, if present.
- Know the fuel type and where the charging socket is for hybrids.
Popular pickup locations
Top UK locations where travellers commonly collect automatic rentals.
– London Gatwick — direct access to terminals and large rental fleets
– London Heathrow — major international hub with many suppliers
– London Stansted — used by budget carriers and easy motorway access
– Manchester — northern hub with extensive rental coverage and services
– Birmingham — central England location with good motorway links
– Edinburgh — Scotland gateway with strong rental availability
– Glasgow — city and airport options for pickups and returns
– Bristol — West Country gateway popular with holiday travellers
– Newcastle — northeast base for regional travel and business visits
– Leeds Bradford — northern England option with motorway connections
How Much Does Automatic Car Hire Cost
Automatic cars typically cost a modest premium over manual equivalents. Expect a daily increase that ranges from around £5 to £20 depending on class and season.
Factors that raise the base rate include pick-up at airport desks, additional drivers and optional extras such as GPS or child seats.
Book early for summer travel to get the best choice of automatic vehicles. Gatwick shows higher availability for families when booked several weeks ahead.
Final Advice Before Booking
Allow extra road time when travelling to or from Gatwick. The M23 approach can suffer delays during incidents and roadworks. National Highways regularly posts closures and diversion advice for the M23 around the airport.
Many Gatwick car parks have height limits near the terminal and on nearby off‑airport park and ride sites. Confirm restrictions if you have a high roof box, trailer or tall vehicle.
Use the airport’s car hire page to confirm your supplier’s desk location before travel. This keeps collection and return smooth.
Plan for peak summer demand and busy bank holiday periods. Book a suitable automatic well in advance for family travel.
Local tips for Gatwick drivers
- Rail station is under the South Terminal. If you arrive at North Terminal allow a short shuttle transfer to the station.
- Traffic flows from the M23 junction 9A. Road incidents here can add 30–90 minutes extra journey time.
- Short stay car parks at both terminals offer 30 minutes for pickup visits, but charges apply. Book official parking if leaving a vehicle.
Frequently asked questions — Gatwick automatic hire
- Where do I collect an automatic hire car at Gatwick?
Desks are in both North and South terminals. Check your booking to confirm which terminal.
- Is there a shuttle between North and South terminals?
Yes. A free inter‑terminal shuttle links the two terminals and the rail station at South Terminal.
- Should I allow extra time for road travel to Gatwick?
Yes. The M23 approach can be delayed by incidents and roadworks. Allow at least 30–60 minutes extra in peak times.
- Are there height restrictions in Gatwick car parks?
Many on-site and nearby park and ride car parks have height limits around two metres. Check before you travel.
- Do suppliers operate desks in both terminals?
Yes. Major suppliers maintain desks at both North and South terminals for collection and return.
- Is automatic hire more expensive at Gatwick?
Automatics usually cost a small premium. The difference varies by vehicle class and season.
- Can I return a hire car out of hours?
Most suppliers provide an after‑hours return procedure. Follow the provider’s instructions on where to leave keys.
- How early should families book an automatic?
Book as early as possible for summer and holiday periods. Booking several weeks ahead gives the best choice.
- Where can I check official Gatwick car hire details?
Use Gatwick’s official car hire page for supplier lists, desk locations and contact details.
Sources: Gatwick Airport official car hire pages and surface access documents, National Highways M23 notices and local parking operators. Links: Gatwick car hire, National Highways M23 notice.
