Three Pedals, No Apologies
They said it was the end of an era—but it turns out, the stick shift isn’t going down without a fight! As the car world flirts harder with automation and electric everything, a quiet resistance lives on in gearheads who crave something a little more tactile. The clutch, the gear lever, and the control still exist in some cars—you just need to know where to look. If you’re hunting for the thrill of a manual transmission, here are 20 cars that stll offer it in their latest 2025 models.
1. Porsche 911
Porsche reserves the stick shift for trims that beg to be driven, not just owned. The GT3 and Carrera T come with a raw, mechanical connection that few modern cars replicate. Ask any 911 purist and you’ll be told it’s in spirit than in stats.
2. Toyota Supra
Originally automatic-only, the Supra's manual arrived thanks to unapologetic fan pressure. Toyota finally gave in, and this was a smart move. The six-speed gearbox pairs with the 3.0-liter turbo inline-six, altering it from a quick car to a more connected one.
3. Kia Forte GT
The Forte GT’s six-speed manual isn’t just about saving cash—it’s about saving fun. Paired with a turbocharged engine, the setup punches well above its price tag. Shift action is smooth, engagement is instant. In a market dropping manuals fast, Kia’s holding on with purpose.
4. Subaru WRX
Turbocharged, all-wheel-drive, and manual—that’s the 2025 WRX. It pairs a six-speed manual with its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which keeps it aligned with its rally heritage. Drivers appreciate the control this car shows both on asphalt and sketchy gravel.
5. Hyundai Elantra N
Hyundai’s Elantra N throws performance at you, then hands over the stick shift without tacking on extra cost. Its 276-hp turbocharged engine gets a six-speed manual as standard, shaving off about $1,500 compared to the DCT model.
6. Jeep Wrangler
Clutch control and crawling rocks go hand-in-hand in the Wrangler. The car still has a six-speed manual for those who like their trail days gritty and unscripted. Automatic may be easier, but this transmission is about feel.
7. Toyota Tacoma
The Tacoma is the last mid-size pickup in the U.S. with a clutch pedal. Found on trims like SR and TRD Off-Road, the manual pairs with a 2.4-liter turbo engine. For loyalists, this setup hauls more than gear.
8. Nissan Z
Nissan didn’t modernize the Z by erasing its purpose—it kept the front-engine, rear-drive, and manual-shifting formula that’s defined the badge for over 50 years. Throttle response is immediate, and gearing is tight. The chassis stays quite composed when pushed through corners.
9. Mazda MX-5 Miata
Decades later, the Miata still proves that fun weighs less than 2,500 pounds and comes with a clutch. Mazda’s commitment to simplicity pays off here. It’s one of the few cars that still feels like a handshake between you and the road.
2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review | Still the Enthusiast’s Choice? by Tom Swiatek
10. Ford Mustang
The Getrag six-speed is standard for the GT, while the Tremec in the Dark Horse variant raises the stakes. That connection between driver, clutch, and V8 rumble is why fans keep coming back.
11. Chevrolet Camaro SS
Camaro SS six-speed manual channels raw V8 energy straight to your fingertips, offering an experience that’s as loud as it is mechanical. Chevy might be winding down its production, but the stick shift goes out swinging.
2025/2026 Camaro SS 1LE – The V8 Monster Chevy Doesn’t Want to Kill🔥 by Drive Dive
12. Nissan Versa
Nissan Versa has a five-speed and four doors for under $20K. The Versa S isn’t here to thrill; it’s here to teach or do the boring stuff reliably. Perfect for first-time drivers or budget hawks. And yes, it’s probably the slowest manual on this list.
13. Subaru BRZ
The BRZ keeps it simple: lightweight chassis, naturally aspirated boxer engine, and a smooth-shifting six-speed manual. Enthusiasts love the overall feel—no screen or paddle replicates it.
The 2025 Subaru BRZ tS is a new sports car you will NOT regret buying! by Raiti's Rides
14. Mini Cooper S
A six-speed manual turns the Mini Cooper S into a corner-carving tool. The 2.0-liter turbo engine delivers 189 horsepower, and the short wheelbase makes every turn feel intentional. Shifts are crisp, clutch feel is forgiving, and the fun shows up before second gear.
Did BMW make the NEW 2025 Mini Cooper S WORSE or BETTER? by Raiti's Rides
15. Toyota GR Corolla
Three cylinders and six gears will make you grin. The GR Corolla’s intelligent manual transmission gives drivers full access to its rally DNA and eager turbo engine. While competitors have gone dual-clutch or CVT, Toyota doubled down on feel.
16. Volkswagen Jetta GLI
The GLI’s turbo-four and slick six-speed manual strike a perfect commuter-meets-corner-carver balance. VW’s gearbox provides clean engagement and long-haul durability. For drivers who want a grown-up sedan that still knows how to have fun, this one’s quietly loud.
17. Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
If you crave luxury with old-school driving thrills, here’s your answer. Cadillac’s CT4-V Blackwing roars to life with a manual transmission. Inside, it includes 18‑way power‑adjustable and heated performance front seats, synthetic‑leather upholstery, and a 14‑speaker AKG premium sound system.
Ultra Rare! 2025 Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing Petit Pataud edition! Full review by AlexOnDrives
18. Acura Integra Type S
Acura brought the Integra name back with the Type S. It channels the Civic Type R’s spirit but adds refinement—320 horsepower through a six-speed manual that’s built for serious drivers.
2025 Acura Integra Type-S: TEST DRIVE+FULL REVIEW by W.T.F Car Reviews
19. Lotus Emira
The 2025 Lotus Emira comes with a 3.5-liter supercharged V6, borrowed from Toyota. Its six-speed manual is sharp and deeply rewarding. Zero to 60 in 4.2 seconds! This one’s pricey, yes—but every shift feels like a flex.
20. Honda Civic Si
The Civic Si continues Honda’s legacy of accessible performance. The car’s turbocharged 1.5-liter engine comes exclusively with a six-speed manual—no automatic option available. Crisp shift throws, balanced chassis, and front-wheel drive make it a reliable and affordable choice.
