Automatically qualify?

We have very happily driven 2nd-hand Toyotas for twenty years and are thinking of buying new, under the scrappage scheme. Both my wife and I learned to drive in Canada and when we came here opted to just drive automatics only. We couldn't figure out why we should have to learn to drive all over again. Besides a car is simply meant to get you from A to B, so why complicate it with manually changing gears? I have a question: Does Toyota's multimode (switchable between fully automatic and clutch-less gear changing) qualify as an automatic under British licensing rules? I couldn't find the answer on DVLA's website.

Asked on 1 August 2009 by

Answered by Honest John

Yes it does, as does any car with no clutch pedal. But be aware that it takes a bit of getting used to. It's an electronically controlled automated manual and you have to allow for the electronics that cushion the changes that can translate into lurching if you are clumsy with the accelerator.

Tags: buying dvla driving licence new cars documents owning scrappage scheme

Dear Honest John,

Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:

Similar questions

Scrappy information

I have taken advantage of the scrappage scheme and ordered a Toyota IQ. High list price, but with the £2k off it seems more palatable. Also very green and costs less to run and insure than my current barge....

Photocarp

I have just received a demand from the DVLA for £20 to renew my driving licence photograph as it "will shortly reach its expiry date". I have held a licence for 52 years and have never been asked for a...

Renewal form

I recently had a reminder from DVLA to renew my driving licence which was due to expire in June. Enclosed with the reminder was a leaflet suggesting that the renewal could be made online at www.direct.gov.uk/renewalat70....