In a world increasingly dominated by automatics, the manual transmission remains a cherished relic for driving enthusiasts. It’s a connection, a visceral experience, and a testament to the art of driving. For those who crave that pure, unadulterated connection with their car, 2018 offered a selection of fantastic vehicles with manual gearboxes. Here’s a look at some of the best⁚
Sports Cars
1. Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Miata remains the undisputed king of affordable sports cars. Its nimble handling, peppy engine, and engaging manual transmission make it a joy to drive on winding roads. The 2018 model offered a 2.0-liter engine with 155 horsepower, making it both fun and efficient.
2. Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86
These twins share the same platform and offer a similar driving experience. The BRZ and 86 are known for their balanced handling, light steering, and responsive throttle. They are a great choice for drivers who want a more affordable and sporty alternative to the Miata.
3. Honda Civic Type R
If you’re looking for a hot hatch that can hold its own on the track, the Civic Type R is a strong contender. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 306 horsepower, and its six-speed manual gearbox is a delight to use.
Sedans and Hatchbacks
4. Volkswagen GTI
The GTI is a legend in the hot hatch segment. Its turbocharged engine, precise handling, and engaging manual transmission make it one of the most fun-to-drive cars on the market.
5. Ford Focus ST
The Focus ST offers a similar driving experience to the GTI, but with a slightly more aggressive and muscular feel. Its turbocharged engine provides plenty of power, and its six-speed manual transmission is smooth and precise.
6. Hyundai Elantra Sport
The Elantra Sport is a surprisingly fun-to-drive compact sedan. Its turbocharged engine and six-speed manual transmission deliver a rewarding driving experience, and its price tag makes it a compelling value.
Trucks and SUVs
7. Jeep Wrangler
The Wrangler is the ultimate off-road vehicle, and its manual transmission is a perfect complement to its rugged capabilities. It allows you to control the vehicle’s speed and momentum with precision, which is essential for navigating challenging terrain.
8. Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon
These mid-size trucks offer a surprising amount of off-road capability, and their manual transmission options make them even more engaging to drive. The Colorado and Canyon are also surprisingly fuel-efficient, thanks to their powerful yet efficient engines.
Honorable Mentions
Several other excellent vehicles offer manual transmission options. These include⁚
- Ford Mustang
- Chevrolet Camaro
- Dodge Challenger
- Subaru WRX/STI
- Mazda3
- Fiat 500 Abarth
The manual transmission may be a dying breed, but it remains a testament to the joy of driving. For those who appreciate the pure, unadulterated connection with their car, these vehicles offer a compelling driving experience.