Ah, the good old days when driving meant more than just getting from point A to point B—it was about the thrill of the journey, the connection between man and machine, and the satisfaction of mastering the art of the stick shift. For many of us, those three pedals underfoot were a rite of passage, a symbol of freedom, and a source of countless memories. While the automotive world has largely shifted to automatics, there are still a few car brands that honor the legacy of the manual transmission. Let’s take a nostalgic drive through 12 car brands that still offer the joy of shifting gears yourself.
1. Acura
Acura has rekindled the spirit of driving with the Integra, a nameplate that resonates with many enthusiasts. The modern Integra comes equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, especially in the A-Spec and Type S variants, offering a direct connection to the road reminiscent of earlier models. The Acura has a rich history in the U.S., writes Honda Newsroom.
This revival not only brings back memories but also introduces the joy of manual driving to a new generation. It’s heartening to see Acura preserving this tactile experience, ensuring that the essence of driving isn’t lost in the digital age.
2. BMW
BMW has long been a champion of the driving enthusiast, and models like the M2, M3, and M4 continue this tradition by offering six-speed manual transmissions. These vehicles embody the brand’s commitment to performance and driver engagement, allowing for precise control and an exhilarating driving experience. The car is so beloved, it’s getting a visual historical storytelling, according to Car and Driver.
The inclusion of a manual option in these high-performance models is a testament to BMW’s dedication to those who cherish the art of driving. It’s a nod to the purists who believe that true driving pleasure comes with a clutch pedal and a gear stick.
3. Cadillac
Cadillac’s CT4-V and CT5-V Blackwing models are a delightful surprise for manual transmission aficionados. These high-performance sedans come standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, blending luxury with the raw, unfiltered driving experience that only a stick shift can provide. The Cadillac is another car with a rich history in the U.S.A., writes Detroit Historical Society
It’s refreshing to see an American luxury brand embracing the manual transmission, offering a unique blend of sophistication and hands-on driving engagement. These models serve as a reminder that luxury and performance can coexist with the timeless appeal of a manual gearbox.
4. Ford
The Ford Mustang has been an icon for decades, and it’s reassuring to know that it still offers a manual transmission option. Particularly in the GT and the performance-focused Dark Horse variants, drivers can enjoy the visceral connection that comes with shifting gears manually. This is part of a bigger picture of the way Ford innovates, as outlined on Britannica.
This enduring feature ensures that the Mustang remains true to its roots, providing an authentic driving experience that has thrilled enthusiasts for generations. The manual gearbox keeps the spirit of the classic muscle car alive, offering an engaging and immersive drive.
5. Toyota
Toyota continues to cater to driving enthusiasts with models like the GR Supra and the GR Corolla, both available with manual transmissions. These cars reflect Toyota’s commitment to performance and driver engagement, offering a hands-on driving experience that’s becoming increasingly rare.
The availability of a manual gearbox in these models is a testament to Toyota’s understanding of the desires of driving purists. It ensures that the joy of manual shifting remains accessible to those who seek it.
6. Nissan
Nissan’s Z series has always been a favorite among sports car enthusiasts, and the latest iteration continues to offer a six-speed manual transmission. This feature maintains the Z’s legacy of driver-focused performance, allowing for a more connected and engaging driving experience.
The manual option in the Nissan Z ensures that the tradition of hands-on driving pleasure is preserved, appealing to both longtime fans and new enthusiasts alike. It’s a nod to the timeless appeal of a manual gearbox in a sports car.
7. Mazda
Mazda’s MX-5 Miata has long been celebrated for its pure driving experience, and it continues to offer a manual transmission. This lightweight roadster embodies the joy of driving, with its precise handling and the tactile satisfaction of a stick shift.
The manual gearbox in the Miata ensures that the essence of driving pleasure remains at the forefront, providing an unfiltered connection between driver and machine. It’s a testament to Mazda’s dedication to the driving enthusiast.
8. Subaru
Subaru’s WRX has been a staple for those seeking rally-inspired performance, and it continues to offer a manual transmission. This feature allows drivers to fully engage with the car’s turbocharged power and all-wheel-drive system, providing a dynamic and interactive driving experience.
The manual option in the WRX ensures that the spirit of rally driving is accessible to enthusiasts, offering control and engagement that automatics can’t replicate. It’s a nod to Subaru’s performance heritage and commitment to driver involvement.
9. Lotus
Lotus has always been synonymous with pure driving pleasure, and the Emira continues this tradition by offering a manual transmission. This sports car emphasizes lightweight design and driver engagement, with the manual gearbox enhancing the tactile connection to the road.
The inclusion of a manual option in the Emira ensures that Lotus’s legacy of performance and driver-focused design continues, providing an authentic and exhilarating driving experience. It’s a testament to the brand’s dedication to the art of driving.
10. Aston Martin
Aston Martin’s Valour is a limited-production model that offers a six-speed manual transmission, catering to purists who value the traditional driving experience. This feature enhances the car’s appeal to enthusiasts who appreciate the tactile engagement that only a manual gearbox can provide.
For those of us who cherish the tactile engagement of a manual transmission, it’s heartening to know that some car manufacturers still cater to our driving passions. Here are two additional car brands that continue to offer models with stick shifts, keeping the joy of manual driving alive.
11. Porsche
Porsche remains a steadfast supporter of the manual transmission, particularly in its iconic 911 lineup. The 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera T, for instance, is crafted for true driving enthusiasts who value the analog thrill of a manual gearbox.
This model emphasizes tactile driving experiences, offering a mechanical and engaging feel that resonates with purists. Despite the industry’s shift towards automatics, Porsche’s commitment ensures that drivers can still enjoy the classic connection between car and driver.
12. Volkswagen
Volkswagen has long offered manual transmissions in some of its most beloved models, and that tradition continues today. The Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R still come with a six-speed manual, appealing to those who want a sporty yet practical car with an engaging drive. The Beetle and classic Microbus of the past made shifting gears a fun and interactive part of driving, and VW continues to honor that spirit.
While many mainstream brands have phased out manuals, Volkswagen has kept the option alive for enthusiasts who refuse to let go of the experience. The GTI, in particular, remains a staple for drivers who appreciate a hot hatch with a stick shift. As long as VW keeps offering a manual, there will always be a place for true driver involvement.
Even though manuals are becoming a rarity, these brands prove that the thrill of shifting gears hasn’t been completely lost to time. For those of us who learned to drive on a stick and still crave that level of control, it’s a comfort knowing some cars still offer it. Every time you engage the clutch and shift into gear, you’re keeping a part of driving history alive. Let’s hope these manufacturers continue to keep that legacy going for as long as possible.
