Ever dreamed of feeling truly connected to your car, shifting gears by hand and savoring every drive? If you’re wondering whether modern car manufacturers still make manual transmissions, you’re not alone. As automatics take over the market, many drivers are curious if the art of the stick shift is disappearing—or simply evolving.
In this article, we’ll break down which brands still offer manuals, why the trend is changing, and what it means for drivers today.
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Do Car Manufacturers Still Make Manual Transmission Cars?
Car enthusiasts have long cherished the tactile feel of shifting gears and the sense of control that comes with driving a manual transmission vehicle. Yet, as technology advances and driver preferences change, many people wonder: do car manufacturers still make manual transmissions? The answer is yes—but with important caveats.
Let’s explore which brands still offer manuals, why they’re becoming rarer, the benefits for those who love them, and practical advice if you’re considering a stick shift.
The State of Manual Transmissions in 2025
Manual Transmissions: Still Alive, But Rare
While the popularity of automatic transmissions has surged worldwide, several car makers continue to produce vehicles with manual gearboxes. These are often found in:
- Performance-oriented sports cars
- Affordable compact vehicles aimed at enthusiasts
- Some pickup trucks and utility vehicles
However, manual options are rapidly shrinking. Each year, fewer new cars—especially in North America—are offered with a manual. In 2025, less than 2% of new vehicles sold come with a stick shift option.
Brands Still Making Manuals
Some of the manufacturers that continue to cater to manual fans include:
- Mazda: The MX-5 Miata and Mazda3 are notable for their engaging manuals.
- Honda: Civic Si and Type R, along with some base models, still offer manuals.
- Ford: The Mustang continues to have a stick option in its performance trims.
- Toyota: GR Supra and GR86 keep the manual tradition alive.
- Volkswagen: Certain Golf GTI and Golf R models are available with manual gearboxes.
- Subaru: The BRZ and, in some markets, basic Imprezas offer a manual.
Some brands—especially luxury and electric vehicle manufacturers—have phased out manual options completely.
Why Are Car Manufacturers Still Making Manual Transmissions?
Even as automatics dominate the market, some car companies maintain manual offerings for reasons including:
Enthusiast Demand
- Driving Experience: Purists value the direct connection with the car.
- Community: Manuals foster a sense of nostalgia and exclusivity among owners.
Lower Production and Maintenance Costs
- Simpler Technology: Manual gearboxes are typically less complex than modern automatic or dual-clutch systems, which can translate into lower repair costs.
- Global Markets: In some countries, especially outside North America, manuals are still popular for economy and reliability.
Performance and Control
- Precision: Many sports car drivers prefer the ability to choose their own gears.
- Light Weight: Manuals can reduce a car’s overall weight, improving performance.
Why Are Manual Transmissions Disappearing?
Despite the passionate fan base, several factors are driving the decline of new manual transmission cars.
Advancing Automatic Technology
- Efficiency: Modern automatics, especially those with many gears or CVTs (Continuously Variable Transmissions), now match or surpass manuals in fuel economy.
- Performance: Dual-clutch and automatic transmissions can shift faster than human drivers, offering quicker acceleration.
- Convenience: Automatics eliminate the learning curve and are easier in stop-and-go traffic.
Changing Consumer Preferences
- Ease of Use: Most drivers prefer the simplicity of automatics.
- Urbanization: City driving often involves frequent stopping, making manuals tiring for some individuals.
- Younger Generations: Fewer young drivers learn to drive a stick.
Regulatory and Safety Changes
- Emissions Regulations: Automatically controlled gearboxes are better for meeting strict emission targets.
- Autonomous Features: Adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and self-parking systems are more compatible with automatics.
Advantages of Driving a Manual
Despite the declining numbers, there are unique benefits to choosing a manual transmission:
- Driver Engagement
- You feel more connected and in control of the vehicle.
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Shifting gears can make the drive more entertaining, especially on winding roads.
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Theft Deterrence
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Fewer people know how to drive a stick; this can discourage car theft.
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Potential Long-Term Reliability
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Manuals generally have fewer components that can fail.
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Lower Purchase Price
- In some cases, manual-equipped models cost less than their automatic counterparts.
Challenges of Owning a Manual Today
While there are benefits, you should also consider:
- Limited Model Availability: Fewer cars and trucks offer manuals.
- Lower Resale Value: Unless you find an enthusiast buyer, resale can be difficult.
- Difficulty in Traffic: Driving a manual in heavy traffic can be tiring.
- Learning Curve for New Drivers: Learning to drive stick is another hurdle if you’re new to driving.
Practical Tips for Manual Transmission Car Buyers
If you’re thinking of buying a new or used manual transmission car, keep these pointers in mind:
1. Check Availability
- Not all dealerships stock manual cars on their lots. Be ready to order or travel farther to find your desired model.
- Research which trims and options are available with a manual gearbox.
2. Assess Your Driving Needs
- Consider if the regions you drive in have lots of hills or heavy traffic.
- Think about how much you value the driving experience versus daily convenience.
3. Learn Proper Technique
- If you’re new to manuals, practice in a safe area. Master clutch control and smooth shifting to prolong the life of the gearbox.
4. Consider Future Value
- Certain rare or performance-oriented models may hold their value or even appreciate as manuals become more exclusive.
5. Maintenance
- Manuals are generally robust, but regular maintenance (like clutch replacement) is important. Make sure you’re comfortable with potential repair costs.
Fun Facts and Best Practices
- Manual transmissions are still the norm in some global markets. In parts of Europe, Asia, and Africa, manuals often outnumber automatics for their simplicity and lower cost.
- Performance models keep the manual spirit alive. Automakers like Honda, Toyota, and Mazda utilize press coverage and passionate owner communities to showcase their stick-shift cars.
- Test Drive Before You Buy. Every manual shifter feels a little different. Comfort and ease of use can vary from model to model.
The Future of Manual Transmissions
Automakers increasingly see manuals as a niche offering. However, as of 2025, there are still dozens of cars you can buy new with a manual transmission. Enthusiast demand, along with heritage models and grassroots communities, ensure that while manuals become rarer, they’re unlikely to disappear entirely in the next few years.
With the continued rise of electric vehicles (which do not use multi-speed manual gearboxes at all), manual transmissions will shift from being mainstream to a special treat for those who truly love the art of driving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What new cars are still available with manual transmissions in 2025?
A select group of sports cars, compacts, and a few trucks still offer manuals. Examples include the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Honda Civic Si, Toyota GR86, Ford Mustang, Volkswagen Golf GTI, and Subaru BRZ.
2. Why are manual transmissions becoming rare in new cars?
Automatic technology has dramatically improved, offering better fuel economy, performance, and convenience. Automatic-only features, emission regulations, and changing driver preferences also contribute to the decline.
3. Are manual transmission cars more fuel efficient?
Modern automatics often match or exceed the fuel economy of manuals thanks to advanced designs. Older manuals used to be more efficient, but that’s no longer always the case.
4. Is it hard to learn to drive a manual?
Learning to drive stick takes practice, especially to master smooth clutch-work and gear changes. Most drivers can learn with several hours of focused instruction and practice.
5. Will manuals become completely extinct?
While manual transmissions will likely become increasingly rare, they may survive in select models—particularly performance-oriented cars—as long as a dedicated group of enthusiasts continues to demand them.
In summary, while the age of the manual car is waning, it’s not over just yet. The thrill of rowing your own gears, the joy of a perfectly timed downshift, and the unique connection to your car remain strong incentives for many drivers to choose manual. As long as enthusiasts continue to value the driving experience, car manufacturers will likely find ways to offer these mechanical marvels—albeit in limited numbers—for years to come.
