In a world increasingly dominated by automatics, it’s easy to forget that the joy of driving a manual transmission still exists. And while you might think the days of rowing through gears are numbered, there are still some surprising cars out there that offer this engaging and rewarding experience.
Luxury and Sport⁚ Unexpected Manual Options
You might be surprised to learn that some luxury and sports cars still offer manual transmissions as an option. This is a testament to the fact that there are still many drivers who appreciate the control and engagement that a manual gearbox provides.
- Porsche 911⁚ The iconic sports car, despite being known for its advanced technology, still offers a 7-speed manual transmission in several models.
- BMW M3⁚ This high-performance sedan is available with a 6-speed manual, allowing drivers to experience the full thrill of its engine.
- Audi RS3⁚ The compact hot hatch, known for its blistering acceleration, can be had with a 6-speed manual transmission.
- Lexus IS 350⁚ This sporty sedan, often overlooked for its Japanese luxury, offers a 6-speed manual transmission in its F Sport trim.
Unexpected Manual Options⁚ Beyond the Usual Suspects
The manual transmission isn’t just reserved for high-performance cars. Here are some surprising everyday vehicles that still offer this driving experience⁚
- Mazda MX-5 Miata⁚ This iconic roadster, a favorite among enthusiasts, is available with a 6-speed manual.
- Subaru WRX⁚ The rally-inspired hot hatch, known for its all-wheel drive, offers a 6-speed manual transmission.
- Honda Civic Si⁚ This sporty compact car, a favorite among budget-minded enthusiasts, comes with a 6-speed manual.
- Toyota GR Supra⁚ This modern-day sports car, a joint venture between Toyota and BMW, offers a 6-speed manual transmission.
The Appeal of Manual Transmission
So why do people still choose manual transmissions? The reasons are numerous⁚
- Engagement and Control⁚ Manually shifting gears provides a more direct connection to the car’s power and allows drivers to fine-tune their driving experience.
- Cost Savings⁚ Manual transmissions are typically less expensive than automatic transmissions, making them a more budget-friendly option.
- Fuel Efficiency⁚ Manual transmissions can offer slightly better fuel economy than automatics, especially in city driving.
- Driving Enthusiasm⁚ For many drivers, the act of shifting gears is a part of the driving experience that adds to the overall enjoyment.
The manual transmission, while not as common as it once was, is far from extinct. These hidden gems demonstrate that the joy of driving a manual gearbox is still alive and well, waiting to be discovered by those who appreciate the art of driving.