Yes, manual transmissions are still available, primarily in sports cars, performance variants, and certain rugged off-road vehicles. While less common than a decade ago, the "three-pedal" setup persists as a niche choice for driving enthusiasts who value engagement and control. You'll find them in models like the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Subaru WRX, and Jeep Wrangler. The key is focusing your search on specific trims, as manuals are often not offered on base models.
The market for new manual cars has significantly narrowed. Most mainstream sedans and SUVs have phased them out entirely in favor of more efficient and faster-shifting automatic transmissions. However, the segment that remains is passionate. Sports cars and hot hatches are the strongesthold. For example, the 2024 Toyota GR Supra recently reintroduced a manual option to critical acclaim, and the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 twins are praised for their precise manual gearboxes that enhance their balanced chassis tuning.
Beyond pure sports cars, rugged icons like the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco continue to offer manuals, appealing to purists who want maximum control off-road. Some entry-level performance sedans, like the Subaru WRX, also keep the option alive. It's crucial to check the specific trim level; the manual is frequently an option only on the higher-performance or more basic, purpose-built versions.
Here is a sample of new 2024 models still offering a manual transmission:
| Vehicle Category | Model Example | Key Specification (e.g., 0-60 mph) | Starting Price (Approx.) | Notes |
|---|
| Sports Car | Chevrolet Camaro LT1 | ~4.5 seconds | $32,000 | V8 engine, available on specific trims. |
| Sports Car | Subaru BRZ | ~6.1 seconds | $29,000 | Standard manual, renowned for balance. |
| Performance Sedan | Subaru WRX | ~5.5 seconds | $31,000 | Standard on Base trim, optional upgrade. |
| Off-Road SUV | Jeep Wrangler | Varies by engine | $32,000 | Available on Sport and Willys trims. |
| Hot Hatch | Volkswagen GTI | ~5.9 seconds | $31,000 | The classic performance hatchback choice. |
| Hyper Hatch | Honda Civic Type R | ~4.9 seconds | $45,000 | High-revving, front-wheel-drive champion. |
| Sports Car | Porsche 718 Cayman | ~4.9 seconds | $68,000 | An optional but exceptional 6-speed. |
| Compact Sedan | Honda Civic Si | ~7.0 seconds | $29,000 | Focused on sporty yet efficient driving. |
| Off-Road SUV | Ford Bronco | Varies by engine | $38,000 | Available on Base and Black Diamond trims. |
| Sports Car | Nissan Z | ~4.3 seconds | $42,000 | Standard manual, modern retro sports car. |
If you're committed to a manual, your best strategy is to configure vehicles on manufacturer websites, carefully checking the transmission options for each trim. Inventory can be limited, so you may need to special order or expand your search radius.
