The demand for used vehicles equipped with automatic transmission has increased significantly in the market. Due to the limited supply of this feature for about twenty years, its popularization occurred later, requiring the buyer to be cautious during acquisition.
Although there are used cars with automatic gearboxes available at lower prices, these often present low reliability or high mileage. For this reason, it is advisable to pay extra attention when buying and request a complete maintenance record.
Another point of attention when buying a used automatic car lies in the positive reputation of Japanese models. Some drivers mistakenly interpret this fame as permission to neglect maintenance, which can lead to expensive repairs later.
A fundamental guideline when acquiring a used vehicle with an automatic gearbox is to check if the oil changes for the gearbox were performed correctly, as this procedure is vital for the component's durability.
For those looking for a used automatic car, the recommendation is to focus on models with an initial value starting from R$ 50k. This range allows finding newer vehicles, a wider range of choices, and more established mechanics.
Automatic Model Analysis
The Hyundai HB20 demonstrated a notable improvement in quality within the compact segment in Brazil. This model was launched with modern engines, good build quality, and a good level of equipment.
It offered the option of a four-speed automatic gearbox for the 1.6 engine, which is considered reliable, although it has high fuel consumption. The first units of this model can be found in the range of R$ 45k to R$ 50k.
The mentioned characteristics also apply to the sedan version, the HB20S. Starting from 2016, the gearbox was updated to six speeds, but these versions have a higher cost.
As an alternative more geared towards urban use, the Fiat 500 stands out, available with the Dualogic automated gearbox or the six-speed Aisin automatic. The recommendation leans towards the second option, as it offers smoother operation, greater reliability, and better resale value.
The Fiat 500 is a well-equipped car, with pleasant finishing and enjoyable to drive. However, its use is more suitable for those who do not frequently use the rear seat, as the interior space is optimized in the front.
The versions equipped with an automatic gearbox of the Fiat 500 have a price list starting at R$ 50k, justifying the additional investment compared to the automated ones. With research, it is possible to find even the convertible version.
The Chevrolet Onix entered the market after the Hyundai HB20, following the trend of raising the quality of popular cars. The automatic gearbox was only introduced in the line starting from 2018, along with an aesthetic update (face-lift).
This vehicle combines a six-speed gearbox with good performance in the 1.4 Family 1 engine, which already had improvements in 2018 to reduce consumption. It is an ideal choice for those who value ease of maintenance, one of the strengths of its engine, with a price starting from R$ 55k.
The first generation Honda Fit, equipped with a CVT gearbox, represents an accessible option for a two-pedal car, but it is over twenty years old and difficult to find with a positive history. Therefore, the second generation is suggested, which shares many qualities and can be found starting from R$ 45k.
The weak point of the second-generation Fit is the transmission. Honda implemented a conventional five-speed automatic gearbox, which negatively impacted consumption compared to the old CVT system. However, problems cease if maintenance is rigorously followed, and the Fit is a more spacious car than many current SUVs, maintaining compact external dimensions.
To exemplify mid-sized cars, the penultimate generation of the Nissan Sentra, launched in Brazil in 2013, was chosen. Although it suffered greater depreciation than its competitors Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic, it preserves the good reputation of a Japanese car.
This generation of the Sentra already came with a flex engine and CVT gearbox. It stood out for its ample interior space and was well-equipped, with the top-of-the-line SL model offering a sunroof and dual-zone air conditioning.
The Ford Ka was slow to incorporate the automatic gearbox option, receiving it only in 2018, as part of the 2019 line. In contrast, the manufacturer used a traditional torque converter gearbox with six speeds, different from the known PowerShift present in the Fiesta, EcoSport, and Focus.
This automatic gearbox is the same one used in the Onix and was associated with the three-cylinder 1.5 Dragon engine, generating 136 hp. The price range for this model starts at R$ 50k, and it is also available in the sedan version.
Another compact that only received an automatic gearbox at the end of its production was the Volkswagen Gol. This model appeared in 2018 with a configuration combining the 1.6 16v MSI engine with the six-speed Aisin gearbox, a set shared with Polo, Virtus, and Golf.
The automatic Gol is less commented on, but constitutes a reliable option without chronic failures. Its initial price is R$ 55k, and it is recommended to look for units that included the unique optional package, which added a reverse sensor, multimedia center, alloy wheels, electric windows on all four doors, and alarm.
