For driving enthusiasts who crave both control and capability‚ the combination of all-wheel drive (AWD) and a manual transmission offers a unique and rewarding experience. While the popularity of automatics has surged in recent years‚ there are still compelling reasons to choose a manual transmission‚ especially when paired with AWD. Here’s a look at some of the best AWD cars with manual transmissions from 2015⁚
Subaru WRX STI
The Subaru WRX STI is a legendary rally-bred performance car that embodies the spirit of AWD and manual transmissions. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer engine produces 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque‚ propelling it to 60 mph in under 5 seconds. The STI’s renowned symmetrical AWD system provides exceptional grip and handling‚ while the precise 6-speed manual transmission allows drivers to fully engage with the car’s performance. Its iconic rally heritage and aggressive styling make it a true head-turner.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
Another Japanese icon‚ the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution‚ was known for its incredible performance and rally success. The final generation‚ launched in 2015‚ featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 291 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque‚ paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The Evolution’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) system provided exceptional grip and handling‚ making it a formidable track car. Its aggressive styling and iconic “Evo” badge solidified its status as a true performance legend.
Audi S4
Audi’s S4‚ a high-performance variant of the A4‚ offered a unique combination of luxury and performance. Its 3.0-liter supercharged V6 engine produced 333 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque‚ making it a powerful contender; The S4’s quattro AWD system and 6-speed manual transmission provided exceptional handling and grip‚ allowing drivers to enjoy its performance in all conditions. Its refined interior and sophisticated design made it a desirable choice for those seeking a blend of performance and luxury.
Volkswagen Golf R
The Volkswagen Golf R‚ the flagship model of the Golf lineup‚ offered a potent blend of performance and practicality. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine delivered 292 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque‚ making it a quick and agile car. The Golf R’s 4Motion AWD system and 6-speed manual transmission provided excellent handling and grip. Its spacious interior and versatile hatchback design made it a practical choice for everyday driving.
Ford Focus RS
The Ford Focus RS was a hot hatch that made a statement with its aggressive styling and impressive performance. Its 2.3-liter turbocharged engine produced 350 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque‚ making it one of the most powerful Focus models ever. The Focus RS’s all-wheel drive system and 6-speed manual transmission delivered exhilarating driving experiences‚ especially on winding roads. Its distinctive styling and rear wing made it instantly recognizable.
Conclusion
These AWD cars with manual transmissions from 2015 offered a unique and rewarding driving experience. From the legendary Subaru WRX STI and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution to the luxurious Audi S4 and practical Volkswagen Golf R‚ these cars provided a blend of performance‚ control‚ and capability. While the manual transmission market has shrunk in recent years‚ these models remain a testament to the enduring appeal of a driver-focused experience.