what cars are still made with manual transmission

[AlexandraLee]

Yes, several new cars are still offered with a manual transmission, primarily targeting driving enthusiasts and budget-conscious shoppers. While automatic transmissions dominate the market, the manual, or "stick shift," persists in key segments: sports cars, performance variants of mainstream models, and some entry-level trims. The choice often comes down to a more engaging driving experience and a typically lower purchase price.

The decline of the manual is a well-documented trend. According to industry analyses from sources like Car and Driver and J.D. Power, manuals now account for less than 2% of new car sales in the U.S. This is due to the superior fuel efficiency and lightning-fast shift times of modern automatic and dual-clutch transmissions (DCTs). However, for a dedicated group of buyers, the direct connection and control offered by a third pedal are irreplaceable.

Here’s a look at some of the most notable new cars available with a manual transmission in the U.S. market:

Car Model	Starting Price (MSRP)	Engine	Horsepower	0-60 mph (est.)	Key Selling Point
Ford Mustang	~$29,000	2.3L EcoBoost I4	310 hp	5.0 sec	Affordable V8 power, classic muscle
Chevrolet Camaro	~$27,000	2.0L Turbo I4	275 hp	5.4 sec	Sharp handling, high-revving option
Subaru WRX	~$30,000	2.4L Turbo Flat-4	271 hp	5.5 sec	All-wheel drive, practical sedan
Volkswagen GTI	~$31,000	2.0L Turbo I4	241 hp	5.9 sec	Premium interior, daily driver comfort
Toyota GR86 / Subaru BRZ	~$29,000	2.4L Flat-4	228 hp	6.1 sec	Lightweight, rear-wheel drive balance
Honda Civic Si	~$29,000	1.5L Turbo I4	200 hp	6.9 sec	Fuel-efficient, precise shifter feel
Jeep Wrangler	~$32,000	3.6L V6	285 hp	7.5 sec	Off-road capability, iconic design
Porsche 911	~$115,000	3.0L Twin-Turbo H6	379 hp	4.0 sec	Supercar performance, heritage
BMW M3	~$76,000	3.0L Twin-Turbo I6	473 hp	4.1 sec	Luxury sedan with track-ready power
Nissan Z	~$41,000	3.0L Twin-Turbo V6	400 hp	4.5 sec	Modern classic, strong performance

When considering a manual, it's important to weigh the pros and cons. The primary advantage is driver engagement. You become an integral part of the driving process, managing gear selection for optimal performance. This can also lead to lower maintenance costs over the long term, as manual transmissions are generally simpler mechanically. The main drawback is resale value; with such low demand, finding a buyer later can be more challenging. Ultimately, buying a new manual-transmission car is a conscious choice for passion over pure practicality.

[Hall]

Look for sports cars and some rugged SUVs. The Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro still offer manuals, even with their V8 engines. The Subaru WRX and Volkswagen GTI are fantastic practical sports cars with sticks. If you want something unique, the Jeep Wrangler is one of the few off-roaders you can get with three pedals. It’s a shrinking list, but the options are still really fun.

[LaFinn]

As a car guy who tracks his car on weekends, the manual is the only choice for me. It’s not about being faster than a dual-clutch; it’s about the feeling. The perfect heel-toe downshift entering a corner, the mechanical connection to the car—that’s the joy of driving. Cars like the Toyota GR86 and Porsche 911 are built for this. They remind you that you’re in control, not just a passenger. It’s a dying art, but that makes it more special.

[StLukas]

I bought my Honda Civic with a manual because it was the cheapest model on the lot. It’s been surprisingly great. I get better gas mileage than the automatic version, and my teenaged kids can’t borrow it because they don’t know how to drive it! It’s also been dead reliable. For an everyday commuter car, it’s a smart, budget-friendly choice if you don’t mind the extra work in traffic. You just have to search a bit harder to find one.

[Whitney]

From an industry perspective, the manual transmission is a niche product. Most manufacturers only offer it on high-performance trims or base models to keep the starting price low. The development cost is now focused on automatics and electrification. However, there's a vocal enthusiast community that demands manuals, which is why companies like Porsche and BMW still offer them on halo cars like the 911 and M3. It’s a brand-building exercise as much as a sales strategy.