For many car enthusiasts, the connection to the road is most keenly felt through a manual transmission. The engagement of shifting gears, the precise control it offers – these are elements that elevate driving from a mere task to a passionate experience. While automatic transmissions have become increasingly sophisticated and dominant, the manual gearbox is far from extinct. In fact, for the 2025 model year, there remains a surprising number of new cars that proudly offer a manual option, allowing drivers to savor that classic, hands-on driving feel.
Despite the automotive industry’s general shift towards automatics and electric powertrains, several automakers are still catering to the purists. From sporty coupes and sedans to rugged SUVs and even a pickup truck, the selection of new cars with manual transmissions in 2025 is more diverse than you might think. Let’s delve into the exciting range of models that allow you to row your own gears and maintain that visceral connection with your vehicle.
Acura
Acura, Honda’s luxury division, is keeping the spirit of manual driving alive with two key models in their lineup.
Acura Integra
The Acura Integra, a recent revival of a beloved nameplate, offers a six-speed manual transmission in its base model. This front-wheel-drive sedan combines driver engagement with everyday practicality. Under the hood, a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine delivers 200 horsepower, providing a responsive and enjoyable driving experience that’s enhanced by the manual gearbox. Starting at an accessible price point, the Integra manual is a compelling option for those seeking an entry-level luxury car with a sporty edge and a stick shift.
Acura Integra Type S
For those craving even more performance, the Acura Integra Type S takes the manual experience to another level. In fact, the six-speed manual is the only transmission available in this high-performance variant. The Type S boasts a potent turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that churns out an impressive 320 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This power is channeled exclusively to the front wheels through the manual transmission, offering a thrilling and engaging driving experience that’s sure to please driving enthusiasts.
BMW
BMW stands out as a champion of the manual transmission, offering more models with a stick shift than any other luxury brand. Their commitment to driver engagement is evident in several models across their performance-oriented M lineup and even in their roadster.
BMW M2
The BMW M2, the entry point into the M performance world, proudly offers a six-speed manual transmission. This compact sports coupe pairs the manual gearbox with a thrilling twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 453 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. While an eight-speed automatic is available, the manual is widely considered the enthusiast’s choice, delivering a more direct and involving driving experience that perfectly complements the M2’s agile handling.
BMW M3
The iconic BMW M3 sedan continues to offer a manual transmission for the 2025 model year, albeit with a specific configuration. The six-speed manual is exclusively available with the rear-wheel-drive M3 model, which produces a robust 473 horsepower. If you opt for the more powerful M3 Competition models, whether rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive xDrive, you’ll be equipped with an eight-speed automatic. For purists who prioritize the manual experience in the classic M3 formula, the rear-wheel-drive variant remains a compelling choice.
BMW M4
The BMW M4 coupe mirrors the M3’s transmission strategy for 2025. The six-speed manual is offered exclusively on the rear-wheel-drive M4, delivering 473 horsepower. Similar to the M3, the higher-performance M4 Competition and M4 Competition xDrive models, with increased horsepower figures, are solely paired with the eight-speed automatic. This strategic offering allows BMW to cater to both those seeking ultimate performance and those who prefer the engaging feel of a manual transmission in their sports coupe.
BMW Z4
BMW finally answered enthusiasts’ calls by introducing a manual transmission option for the Z4 roadster. This six-speed manual is exclusively available in the higher-performance Z4 M40i trim. This means you get the joy of a stick shift paired with a potent turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This combination creates a truly engaging open-top driving experience, blending classic roadster thrills with modern performance.
Cadillac
Cadillac continues to uphold the tradition of manual transmissions in their high-performance V-Series Blackwing models, offering a compelling blend of American muscle and driver engagement.
Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing remains a standout sports sedan, offering a standard six-speed manual transmission. This gearbox is paired with a twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V-6 engine that delivers 472 horsepower and 445 pound-feet of torque. For those who prefer automatic shifting, a 10-speed automatic is also available. However, the manual option underscores the CT4-V Blackwing’s focus on driver involvement and performance purism.
Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing
The larger Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing super sedan also proudly retains its six-speed manual transmission for 2025. This beastly sedan pairs the manual with a supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine that unleashes a staggering 668 horsepower and 659 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. While a 10-speed automatic is offered, the manual transmission option in the CT5-V Blackwing is a powerful statement, making it one of the most potent and engaging manual cars available on the market.
Ford
Ford offers manual transmissions in two very different, yet iconic, models, catering to both off-road enthusiasts and pony car lovers.
Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco, a rugged and versatile SUV, is a surprising entry into the manual transmission landscape. A seven-speed manual transmission is available on several Bronco models, including the Base, Big Bend, Badlands, and Heritage Edition. This manual gearbox is paired with the standard turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower. For off-road enthusiasts who appreciate the control and engagement of a manual transmission in challenging terrains, the Bronco offers a unique and appealing option.
Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang, an American icon, continues to offer a six-speed manual transmission in its GT and Dark Horse models. This classic pairing of a powerful engine and a manual gearbox is central to the Mustang’s appeal for driving enthusiasts. The Mustang GT, with its 480 horsepower, and the even more potent Dark Horse, boasting 500 horsepower, both offer the option to row your own gears, delivering a quintessential muscle car experience.
Hennessey
For those with deep pockets and a desire for ultimate manual performance, Hennessey offers a hypercar experience unlike any other.
Hennessey Venom F5
The Hennessey Venom F5-M Roadster is a testament to extreme performance and driver engagement. This hypercar boasts a gated six-speed manual transmission paired with a monstrous 1,817 horsepower engine, making it arguably the most powerful manual car in the world. With its multi-million dollar price tag, the Venom F5-M Roadster is an exclusive and extraordinary example of the manual transmission’s continued presence at the pinnacle of automotive performance.
Honda
Honda, known for its driver-focused vehicles, keeps the manual transmission alive in its sporty Civic models.
Honda Civic Si
The Honda Civic Si, the performance-oriented version of the popular Civic, continues to offer a six-speed manual transmission exclusively. This sporty sedan pairs the manual gearbox with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower. The Civic Si manual provides an engaging and fun-to-drive experience at a relatively accessible price point, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts seeking an affordable and sporty compact car.
Honda Civic Type R
The top-tier Honda Civic Type R, a celebrated hot hatchback, also remains committed to the manual transmission. Like the Integra Type S, the Civic Type R is exclusively available with a six-speed manual. This gearbox is paired with a high-output turbocharged 2.0-liter engine delivering 315 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Civic Type R’s manual transmission is integral to its reputation for providing a raw, engaging, and track-focused driving experience.
Hyundai
Hyundai’s N performance division offers a last bastion of manual transmission fun in their Elantra N sedan.
Hyundai Elantra N
The Hyundai Elantra N stands as the last gasoline-powered N model in Hyundai’s lineup, and it thankfully retains its six-speed manual transmission option. The Elantra N pairs the manual 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 option caters to drivers who prioritize a more connected and engaging driving experience in their performance sedan.
Jeep
Jeep, the iconic off-road brand, surprisingly continues to offer a manual transmission in its most recognizable model.
Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler, known for its off-road prowess and open-air freedom, is available with a six-speed manual transmission in its base configuration. This manual gearbox is paired with the standard 3.6-liter V-6 engine. Initially, there were discussions about making the Wrangler V6 manual-only, but ultimately, both manual and automatic transmissions remain available, offering consumers the choice based on their driving preferences and off-roading needs.
Lotus
Lotus, the British sports car manufacturer, maintains a manual transmission offering in their Emira sports car.
Lotus Emira
The Lotus Emira sports car is the sole model in the Lotus lineup to offer a manual transmission. This six-speed gearbox comes standard with the supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine, which produces 400 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. While the base four-cylinder Emira is only available with an automatic transmission, the V6 manual Emira caters to driving purists who seek the lightweight agility and engaging feel that Lotus is renowned for, combined with the control of a manual gearbox.
Mazda
Mazda, known for its “zoom-zoom” driving philosophy, offers manual transmissions in two key models, showcasing their commitment to driver enjoyment across different vehicle types.
Mazda3
Believe it or not, the Mazda3 compact car still offers a manual transmission, albeit in a specific trim. The front-wheel-drive Mazda3 2.5S Premium trim comes standard with a six-speed manual. This gearbox is paired with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. While the manual is not available on sedan models, turbo trims, or with all-wheel drive, its presence in the Mazda3 hatchback demonstrates Mazda’s dedication to offering driver engagement even in their more mainstream models.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata, the quintessential roadster, unsurprisingly continues to offer a six-speed manual transmission for 2025. This beloved sports car offers the manual in both its standard soft-top convertible and hard-top RF (Retractable Fastback) models. Both trims feature the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. The Miata’s manual transmission is integral to its DNA, providing the crisp shifts and direct connection that make it a benchmark for affordable driving fun.
Nissan
Nissan offers manual transmissions in two models that represent different ends of the automotive spectrum, from budget-friendly economy to high-performance sports cars.
Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa subcompact sedan is an unlikely hero in the manual transmission world. For 2025, the base S model of the Versa retains its five-speed manual transmission. This manual option contributes to the Versa’s position as one of the most affordable new cars in America, offering budget-conscious buyers the option of a stick shift in a practical and economical sedan.
Nissan Z
The Nissan Z sports car emphatically keeps its six-speed manual transmission for the 2025 model year. Available on the Sport, Performance, and Heritage Edition trims, the manual gearbox is paired with a potent twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine producing 400 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. The manual transmission is considered essential to the Nissan Z’s sports car character, providing drivers with a traditional and engaging connection to its powerful engine.
Porsche
Porsche, synonymous with performance and driver engagement, offers manual transmissions in its iconic 718 and 911 sports car ranges.
Porsche 718 Boxster / Cayman
The Porsche 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman sports cars, while potentially nearing the end of their gasoline-powered era, still offer a standard six-speed manual transmission. For those who prefer automated shifting, a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission is also available. The continued availability of the manual in the 718 range allows Porsche to cater to driving purists who appreciate the classic sports car experience.
Porsche 911
The Porsche 911, an automotive icon, would be almost unthinkable without a manual transmission option. For 2025, the six-speed manual is available on the Carrera T and GT3 models. The Carrera T pairs the manual with a twin-turbocharged flat-six engine producing 388 horsepower, while the GT3 boasts a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six with 502 horsepower. Porsche’s commitment to offering manual transmissions in the 911, especially in performance-focused trims, reinforces its dedication to driver engagement and the heritage of manual shifting in sports cars.
Subaru
Subaru, with its rally-inspired heritage, maintains manual transmissions in its BRZ sports car and WRX sports sedan.
Subaru BRZ
The Subaru BRZ, an affordable and agile sports car, comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission across all trims for 2025. This manual gearbox is paired with a 2.4-liter Boxer engine producing 228 horsepower. The BRZ’s manual transmission is a key component of its appeal as an accessible and fun-to-drive sports car, emphasizing driver engagement and balanced handling.
Subaru WRX
The Subaru WRX, Subaru’s iconic sports sedan with rally roots, also continues to offer a six-speed manual transmission for 2025. The manual is standard on the Base, Premium, Limited, and new-for-2025 WRX tS models. It’s paired with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder boxer engine producing 271 horsepower. The WRX’s manual transmission option reinforces its sporty character and provides drivers with a traditional and engaging driving experience in a practical sedan.
Toyota
Toyota, while increasingly embracing automatic and hybrid powertrains, still offers manual transmissions in several of its enthusiast-focused GR models and its popular Tacoma pickup truck.
Toyota GR86
The Toyota GR86, closely related to the Subaru BRZ, predictably continues to offer a six-speed manual transmission for 2025. This manual gearbox is paired with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder boxer engine producing 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Like its Subaru cousin, the GR86’s manual transmission is central to its identity as an affordable and engaging sports car, emphasizing driver involvement and balanced handling.
Toyota GR Corolla
The Toyota GR Corolla hot hatchback, even with the introduction of an automatic transmission option for 2025, still comes standard with a six-speed manual. This manual gearbox is paired with a high-revving turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The GR Corolla’s manual transmission is essential to its raw and exciting character as a high-performance hatchback.
Toyota GR Supra
The Toyota GR Supra sports car, despite sales trends, continues to offer a six-speed manual transmission for 2025. The manual option is available across both Supra trims and is paired with the now-standard turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 382 horsepower. The introduction of a manual transmission to the Supra in recent years demonstrates Toyota’s commitment to catering to driving enthusiasts and offering a more traditional sports car experience.
Toyota Tacoma
The Toyota Tacoma pickup truck is a surprising and unique entry as the only truck available with a manual transmission in 2025. The six-speed manual option is offered on the Tacoma SR, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-Road models. This availability of a manual transmission in a modern pickup truck is a rare offering, appealing to drivers who value the control and engagement of a stick shift even in a utilitarian vehicle.
Volkswagen
Volkswagen, while phasing out manual transmissions in some of its performance models, still offers a manual in the Jetta GLI sedan.
Volkswagen Jetta GLI
While the manual transmission options for the GTI and Golf R have been discontinued for 2025, the Volkswagen Jetta GLI sedan retains its six-speed manual. This manual gearbox is paired with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The Jetta GLI manual offers a sporty and engaging driving experience in a practical sedan, keeping the manual transmission alive in the Volkswagen lineup.
Long Live The Manual Transmission
While the automotive landscape continues to evolve, the availability of new cars with manual transmissions in 2025 is a testament to the enduring appeal of driver engagement and the joy of rowing your own gears. From budget-friendly options to high-performance machines, the stick shift is still an option for those who seek a more connected and involved driving experience. If you appreciate the art of driving and the tactile feedback of a manual gearbox, the 2025 model year offers a surprising array of choices to keep the manual transmission spirit thriving.
