An automatic transmission is a type of transmission that can change gears without the driver having to manually shift. Automatics are the most popular type of transmission in vehicles today, and they come in many varieties, including traditional torque converter automatics, dual–clutch automatics (such as DSG or Direct–Shift Gearbox), and continuously variable transmissions (CVT).

Torque Converter Automatics: Torque converter automatics are the most common type of automatic transmission. They use a fluid coupling between the engine and transmission to transfer power. This fluid coupling allows the transmission to smoothly transition between gears without the need for a clutch.