America doesn't make up the whole rest of the world. I think what you're describing is perfectly valid, but it might be a UK-specific thing, or otherwise limited to the UK and a number of other countries. But it's not universal minus America. Besides, in America, I don't think anyone learns how to drive in a manual car. I'd be interested in finding out what percentage of drivers (in Canada and the US) even know how to drive manual, but I'm guessing it's probably below 25%.