
The Corolla is available with a manual transmission. A manual transmission requires the driver to manually shift the gear lever to change the gear engagement positions inside the transmission, altering the gear ratio to achieve speed variation. The Corolla is a compact sedan with body dimensions of 4635mm in length, 1780mm in width, and 1455mm in height, a wheelbase of 2700mm, and a trunk capacity of 470 liters. The Corolla features an independent front suspension and an E-type multi-link independent rear suspension. It is equipped with a 1.2T turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum horsepower of 116 PS, a maximum power of 85 kW, and a maximum torque of 185 N·m, paired with a 10-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT). Advantages of manual transmission: Manual transmissions are generally cheaper than automatic transmissions, offering better value for money. The technology behind manual transmissions is mature and highly reliable, with lower maintenance and repair costs compared to AT automatic transmissions. Since manual transmissions are purely mechanical without electronic assistance, they have a lower failure rate. Manual transmission versions of the same model are typically heavier than their automatic counterparts, providing more stable driving. Manual transmission allows for early upshifting and coasting, making it particularly suitable for city driving, resulting in better fuel efficiency and faster acceleration from a standstill.

I remember my friend specifically checked when a Corolla last year, and now the models sold domestically are basically all automatic transmissions. However, there were indeed manual transmission versions in the past. If you look at older Corolla models, like the 2019 version, both the 1.2T and 1.6L models had manual transmission options, and the gear shifting was quite smooth. But nowadays, you can hardly see manual transmission models in the 4S showrooms. If you really want one, you might need to ask if there are any leftover stock cars or consider the used car market. By the way, manual transmissions can be a bit tiring in city traffic jams, but they offer better fuel economy, and experienced drivers often find them more engaging to drive.

Last week I was helping my cousin research this. The latest Corolla models all come with CVT transmissions now. But if you particularly like manual transmissions, you might want to look for pre-2020 models. For example, the early 12th generation 1.2T Pioneer edition came with a 6MT gearbox - it has short shift throws and the clutch is so light even female drivers can handle it. I heard some dealers in smaller towns might still have limited stock, but you'd need to act fast. Honestly, the hybrid version is even more fuel-efficient than manual transmissions nowadays, getting just over 4L/100km, and you don't need to use the clutch at traffic lights.

According to the official website's configuration list, the domestic Corolla has completely discontinued manual transmissions since the 2021 model year. However, last year I saw a 2019 manual transmission Corolla in the market - the 1.6L naturally aspirated version with a 5-speed manual gearbox that's particularly durable. It had run 80,000 kilometers without even needing a clutch replacement. If you're looking to buy a new car with manual transmission, you might need to consider other brands, such as the Sylphy Classic which still offers manual transmission models for sale.

I drove my uncle's 2018 Corolla manual transmission before. That 5MT gearbox has a satisfying engagement feel, much better to drive than the Santana we used in driving school. However, all new models now use the TNGA platform and come standard with automatic transmission. If you want to buy a new manual transmission car, you need to pay special attention - only the base 1.5L three-cylinder version initially offered a manual option, but it was later discontinued. I suggest going directly to the dealership to ask the salesperson, as they might still have some remaining inventory.

I've studied the evolution of the Corolla's transmission. Manual transmission models were quite common before the 12th generation. Nowadays, they're indeed harder to find. When I helped a colleague search for a last year, I noticed that 2017-2019 1.2T manual models were priced around 60,000 yuan, nearly 20,000 cheaper than automatic versions. These cars are perfect for beginners to practice driving skills, as Toyota's MT transmissions are renowned for durability - they can easily last a decade without major repairs. However, I wouldn't recommend insisting on manual for new cars nowadays. The current standard automatic parking and adaptive cruise control features are incredibly convenient in traffic jams.


