Remember the joy of rowing through gears in your car? For many driving enthusiasts, the engagement and control offered by a manual transmission are unmatched. While automatic transmissions have become increasingly sophisticated and dominant in the automotive market, the manual gearbox is far from extinct. Despite predictions of its demise, a surprising number of automakers are keeping the manual dream alive, offering stick shifts in nearly 30 different models for the 2025 model year. From sporty coupes and sedans to versatile SUVs and even a rugged pickup truck, the manual transmission continues to cater to drivers who value a more connected and involved driving experience. Let’s explore the exciting range of cars where you can still find the coveted manual shifter in 2025.
Acura Integra
Acura is championing the cause of manual transmissions with its entry-level model, the Integra. The base Acura Integra combines a slick six-speed manual transmission with front-wheel drive, powered by a spirited turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that delivers 200 horsepower. Priced from an accessible $34,195, the 2025 Acura Integra offers an engaging driving experience without breaking the bank, proving that fun behind the wheel can still be attainable.
Acura Integra Type S
For those seeking even more performance and driver engagement, Acura presents the Integra Type S. This sporty variant exclusively offers a six-speed manual transmission, underlining its focus on driver involvement. Under the hood, the Integra Type S boasts a potent turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, sending an impressive 320 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels. The manual transmission in the Type S is engineered to handle this power, providing precise gear changes and maximizing the thrill of driving a high-performance front-wheel-drive machine.
BMW M2
BMW stands out as a strong proponent of manual transmissions, offering the stick shift in more models than any other brand. Leading the charge is the BMW M2. The 2025 BMW M2 pairs a rewarding six-speed manual transmission with a formidable twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This powerhouse produces 453 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, delivering exhilarating performance. While an eight-speed automatic is available, the manual transmission is undeniably the choice for purists who want to fully exploit the M2’s dynamic capabilities and enjoy a truly connected driving experience.
BMW M3
The iconic BMW M3 continues to offer a manual transmission for 2025, but with a strategic caveat. Enthusiasts desiring the rear-wheel-drive M3 Competition with 503 horsepower or the even more potent M3 Competition xDrive with 523 horsepower will need to opt for the eight-speed automatic. BMW reserves the six-speed manual transmission for the rear-wheel-drive standard M3, which still delivers a thrilling 473 horsepower. This decision caters to drivers who prioritize the classic manual driving experience in a slightly less extreme performance configuration of the legendary M3.
BMW M4
Similar to its M3 sedan counterpart, the BMW M4 coupe also maintains the option of a manual transmission in its lineup for 2025. BMW’s strategy mirrors that of the M3: the six-speed manual is exclusively available on the rear-wheel-drive M4 model, producing 473 horsepower. The higher-performance rear-wheel-drive M4 Competition and the all-wheel-drive M4 Competition xDrive, boasting 503 and 523 horsepower respectively, are solely offered with the eight-speed automatic. This focused availability ensures that drivers who specifically seek the engagement of a manual gearbox in the M4 can still find it in the base rear-drive model.
BMW Z4
After a long wait, BMW finally introduced a manual transmission option for the Z4 roadster in 2024. This welcome addition continues into 2025. The six-speed manual convertible is exclusively offered in the more powerful M40i trim. This pairing combines the joy of open-top driving with the engagement of a manual gearbox and the robust performance of a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine generating 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The manual Z4 M40i provides a compelling blend of classic roadster thrills and modern performance.
Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing remains a standout sports sedan for 2025, continuing to offer the choice of a manual transmission. It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, with an optional 10-speed automatic available for those who prefer it. Both transmissions are paired with a potent twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V-6 engine that produces 472 horsepower and 445 pound-feet of torque. Starting at $63,590, the 2025 CT4-V Blackwing delivers a compelling combination of luxury, performance, and driver engagement with its available manual gearbox.
Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing
The larger Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing receives a subtle refresh and new features for 2025, but crucially, it retains the option of a manual transmission. This super sedan mates its six-speed manual to a monstrous supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine. This combination unleashes a staggering 668 horsepower and 659 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels, making it one of the most powerful manual transmission cars on the market. Starting at $96,990, the 2025 CT5-V Blackwing offers a truly unique and exhilarating driving experience for those who dare to master its immense power with a stick shift.
Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco stands out as one of the few SUVs still available with a manual transmission. The seven-speed manual is offered on the Base, Big Bend, Badlands, and Heritage Edition trims for the 2025 model year. It is paired with the standard turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, producing a capable 300 horsepower. While the more powerful turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 engine with 330 horsepower requires opting for an automatic transmission, the manual Bronco provides a unique blend of off-road capability and driver involvement for SUV enthusiasts who prefer a stick shift.
Ford Mustang
Despite a challenging sales year, the iconic Ford Mustang remains committed to offering a manual transmission for 2025, pleasing its loyal fanbase. The six-speed manual is available on the GT and Dark Horse models, which deliver 480 and 500 horsepower respectively from their V8 engines. The Mustang GT with a manual transmission starts at $48,155, while the high-performance Dark Horse begins at $65,975. The continued availability of the manual in the Mustang ensures that drivers seeking a classic muscle car experience with full control can still find it.
Hennessey Venom F5
For those with limitless budgets and a desire for the ultimate manual driving experience, the Hennessey Venom F5 stands alone. This American-built hypercar can be configured as the Venom F5-M Roadster, featuring a gated six-speed manual transmission and an astonishing 1,817 horsepower. Claiming the title of the world’s most powerful manual car, the Venom F5-M Roadster is an exclusive and extreme machine, available for those with $2.65 million to spend on unparalleled stick-shift performance.
Honda Civic Si
While Honda discontinued the manual transmission option for the base Civic sedan and hatchback, the spirit of manual driving lives on in the sporty Civic Si. The 2025 Honda Civic Si exclusively offers a six-speed manual transmission, paired with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower. Priced at $31,400, the Civic Si provides an engaging and affordable entry point into the world of performance-oriented manual transmission cars.
Honda Civic Type R
The top-tier performance Honda Civic Type R also remains committed to the manual transmission for 2025. Like the Integra Type S, the Civic Type R is exclusively available with a six-speed manual gearbox, reinforcing its track-focused nature. This manual transmission is paired with a potent turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, delivering 315 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The 2025 Civic Type R receives a minor facelift and a slight price increase, starting at $47,045, but its core appeal as a high-performance, manual-transmission hot hatchback remains unchanged.
Hyundai Elantra N
The Hyundai Elantra N stands as the last gasoline-powered N model in Hyundai’s lineup, and it proudly carries the manual transmission torch. The Elantra N offers a six-speed manual transmission option, paired with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. While an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission is also available, the manual Elantra N caters to driving enthusiasts who prefer the direct control and engagement of a stick shift in a performance sedan.
Jeep Wrangler
Interestingly, Jeep initially considered making the V-6-powered Wrangler manual-only for 2025, but ultimately decided to retain the automatic option due to customer feedback. The base 2025 Wrangler is therefore available with both a six-speed manual and an automatic transmission, both paired with the standard 3.6-liter V-6 engine. The continued availability of the manual in the Wrangler ensures that off-road enthusiasts who value the control and connection of a manual gearbox in challenging terrain can still choose it.
Lotus Emira
The Lotus Emira is the sole manual transmission offering in the current Lotus lineup, appealing to purists who appreciate the brand’s heritage of driver-focused sports cars. The six-speed manual comes standard with the supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine in the Emira, delivering 400 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Notably, the base four-cylinder engine version of the Emira is exclusively available with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, making the manual a unique selling point for the V6 model.
Mazda3
Surprisingly, the Mazda3 still offers a manual transmission in 2025, albeit in a specific configuration. The front-wheel-drive Mazda3 2.5S Premium trim comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, paired with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. Unfortunately, the manual option is not available on the sedan body style, the turbocharged trim, or with all-wheel drive, making it a niche offering for manual enthusiasts who prefer the hatchback configuration.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Unsurprisingly, the Mazda MX-5 Miata, a perennial favorite among driving enthusiasts, continues to offer a manual transmission for 2025. The beloved sports car offers a six-speed manual shifter in both the standard soft-top convertible and the hard-top RF (Retractable Fastback) models. Both versions are powered by the same engaging 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, sending 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. The Miata’s enduring commitment to the manual transmission reinforces its position as a quintessential driver’s car.
Nissan Versa
In an unexpected twist, the Nissan Versa emerges as an unlikely champion of the manual transmission. For 2025, the subcompact sedan retains its five-speed manual transmission on the base S model. This helps maintain its status as one of the most affordable cars in America. Starting at just $18,330, the 2025 Versa S offers a budget-friendly entry point to car ownership with the added bonus of a manual gearbox for those who prefer it, especially appealing for first-time car buyers or those seeking basic, no-frills transportation.
Nissan Z
The Nissan Z, a sports car with a strong heritage, absolutely needs a manual transmission option, and thankfully, Nissan agrees. The 2025 model continues to offer a six-speed manual on the Sport, Performance, and Heritage Edition trims. This transmission is paired with a potent twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine producing 400 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. However, the high-performance 420-hp Z Nismo model is exclusively available with a nine-speed automatic, making the manual transmission a distinguishing feature of the standard Z models.
Porsche 718 Boxster / Cayman
The Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman sports cars, while potentially facing an electric future, currently still offer the joy of manual shifting. The 718 range continues to provide a standard six-speed manual transmission, with an optional seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission available for those who prefer automated gear changes. The availability of the manual in the 718 models allows Porsche purists to enjoy a more traditional and engaging sports car driving experience before the potential shift to electric powertrains.
Porsche 911
Could a Porsche 911 exist without a manual transmission option? For many enthusiasts, the answer is a resounding no. Porsche continues to offer the six-speed manual shifter on the 911 Carrera T and GT3 models for 2025. The Carrera T pairs the manual with a twin-turbocharged flat-six engine producing 388 horsepower and 331 pound-feet of torque, while the GT3 boasts a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six with a thrilling 502 horsepower. The continued availability of the manual in the 911, especially in performance-focused models like the GT3, underscores Porsche’s commitment to catering to driving purists.
Subaru BRZ
The Subaru BRZ remains a strong advocate for the manual transmission in the affordable sports car segment for 2025. The BRZ comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission across all trims, paired with a responsive 2.4-liter Boxer engine producing 228 horsepower. For enthusiasts seeking enhanced performance, the BRZ tS model offers STI-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and improved steering, further amplifying the engaging driving experience offered by the standard manual transmission.
Subaru WRX
Subaru’s iconic sports sedan, the WRX, also continues to offer a manual transmission option for 2025. The WRX pairs a standard six-speed manual transmission with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder boxer engine producing 271 horsepower on the Base, Premium, Limited, and the new-for-2025 WRX tS models. Starting at a reasonable $33,855, the WRX provides an accessible entry point to performance sedan ownership with the added engagement of a manual gearbox and Subaru’s signature all-wheel-drive system.
Toyota GR86
Mirroring its sibling, the Subaru BRZ, the Toyota GR86 also predictably continues to offer a manual transmission for 2025. The GR86 pairs a six-speed manual with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder boxer engine producing 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The Hakone Edition returns for 2025, offering a unique trim level, but the base GR86 remains an affordable and engaging sports car starting at just $31,135, emphasizing the fun of driving with a manual transmission.
Toyota GR Corolla
Despite introducing an automatic transmission option for 2025 (which is reportedly excellent), the Toyota GR Corolla hot hatchback thankfully retains its standard manual transmission. The GR Corolla comes standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, paired with a potent turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The continued availability of the manual in the GR Corolla ensures that driving enthusiasts can still enjoy the raw and engaging experience of shifting gears in this high-performance hatchback.
Toyota GR Supra
While sales may have cooled slightly, the Toyota GR Supra still caters to driving purists by offering a six-speed manual transmission option for 2025. The GR Supra provides the six-speed manual across both trim levels, paired with the now-standard turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 382 horsepower. The discontinuation of the four-cylinder Supra for 2025 further emphasizes the focus on the more powerful six-cylinder engine and the availability of the manual transmission for driving enthusiasts.
Toyota Tacoma
In a sign of changing times, the Toyota Tacoma stands out as the only pickup truck you can buy with a manual transmission in 2025. The six-speed manual option is not limited to the base model, either. The Tacoma SR, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-Road trims all offer the six-speed manual transmission. This makes the Tacoma a unique choice for truck buyers who prefer the control and involvement of a manual gearbox, especially for off-roading or simply enjoying a more connected driving experience in a pickup.
Volkswagen Jetta GLI
While manual transmission options have disappeared from the GTI and Golf R for 2025, Volkswagen still caters to manual enthusiasts with the Jetta GLI. The 2025 Jetta GLI, which receives a subtle facelift and interior updates, retains its six-speed manual shifter. It remains paired with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The Jetta GLI serves as a reminder that even in the sedan segment, the manual transmission can still be found for drivers who appreciate the engagement it offers.
Long Live The Manual
Despite the increasing prevalence of automatic transmissions, this list of nearly 30 cars proves that the manual gearbox is not going away quietly. Automakers are still recognizing the demand for manual transmissions, especially in sports cars and performance-oriented models. For driving enthusiasts who value the connection to the machine, the control over gear selection, and the sheer fun of shifting gears, the manual transmission continues to offer a driving experience that automatics simply cannot replicate. So, if you’re passionate about stick shifts, 2025 offers a diverse and exciting range of cars to choose from.
