are manual cars still made

[DiKayden]

Yes, manual transmission cars are still being made, but their availability in the United States has become extremely limited and is primarily concentrated on performance-oriented models, sports cars, and some entry-level economy cars. The vast majority of new vehicles sold today are automatics, with the market share for manuals estimated to be well below 2%. The shift is driven by consumer preference for convenience, the superior fuel efficiency of modern automatics, and the rise of electric vehicles, which have no traditional multi-speed gearbox.

However, for a dedicated group of enthusiasts, the manual transmission remains a sought-after feature. Often referred to as a "third pedal" or "stick shift," it offers a more engaging and connected driving experience. Car manufacturers like Ford, Chevrolet, Porsche, and BMW continue to offer manuals on specific trims of popular models as a nod to this purist segment.

Current New Cars with Manual Transmission Availability (2024-2025 Model Years)

Car Model	Segment	Starting Price (Approx.)	Notes
Ford Mustang	Sports Car	~$30,000	Available on base EcoBoost and GT trims.
Chevrolet Camaro	Sports Car	~$27,000	Offered on select trims, but being phased out.
Subaru WRX	Performance Sedan	~$30,000	A standout in the sedan category.
Volkswagen Golf GTI / Golf R	Hot Hatch	~$31,000 / ~45,000	A legend in the manual hot hatch world.
Honda Civic Si / Type R	Sport Compact	~$29,000 / ~45,000	The Type R is a high-performance benchmark.
Toyota GR Supra / GR 86	Sports Car	~$46,000 / ~29,000	Toyota's dedicated sports car lineup.
Porsche 718 Cayman/Boxster	Luxury Sports Car	~$68,000	Often a no-cost option on these models.
Jeep Wrangler	SUV	~$32,000	One of the few SUVs with a manual option.
Mini Cooper	Subcompact	~$25,000	Available on several hardtop and convertible models.

If you're determined to buy a new manual car, your best bet is to act quickly. Many models offering a manual are special editions or are on their way to being discontinued. You will likely need to special-order the vehicle or search dealer inventories extensively, as they are not commonly stocked on lots. For most daily drivers, an automatic is more practical, but the manual persists as a rewarding choice for those who view driving as a passion.

[StJudah]

They’re hanging on by a thread, but yeah, you can still find them. You just have to look harder. It’s mostly on the fun stuff now—sports cars and hot hatches. My buddy just ordered a new Ford Bronco with a stick. It’s becoming a special-order thing. If you want that direct connection to the machine, it’s out there, but you’re not going to find it on your average family SUV. It’s a niche choice for sure.

[MacPiper]

From a purely practical standpoint, manuals are nearly extinct in the American market. The automatic transmission is simply more efficient and easier to drive in heavy traffic. For the average commuter, there's no real benefit to choosing a manual anymore. The few that remain are often on base-model economy cars or high-end performance vehicles, catering to opposite ends of the spectrum. The trend is unmistakably toward automatics and, ultimately, single-speed electric vehicles.

[ONatalie]

I was shopping for a used car recently and noticed manuals are often cheaper upfront and can be a great deal for the right buyer. Because demand is so low, they tend to sit on lots longer, which can give you some negotiating power. Just be aware that when it's time to sell, your pool of potential buyers will be much smaller. It’s a double-edged sword. If you plan on keeping the car for a long time and enjoy driving stick, it can be a smart financial and personal decision.

[GabrielleLynn]

It feels like a secret handshake among car people. Seeing three pedals in a new car is a statement that the driver values the experience over sheer convenience. Brands like Porsche and Toyota with their GR line are keeping it alive because they understand it’s part of their performance identity. It’s not about being faster than an automatic dual-clutch; it’s about the satisfaction of a perfect heel-toe downshift. It’s a feature that turns a car from an appliance into a hobby.