In a world increasingly dominated by automatics and CVTs, the manual transmission remains a bastion of driver engagement and control. For those who appreciate the visceral connection of shifting gears themselves, 2019 offered a solid selection of cars with stick shifts. Here are some of the best⁚
Sports Cars
- Honda Civic Type R⁚ The Civic Type R is a hot hatch that’s as practical as it is fun to drive. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 306 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the quickest cars in its class. The six-speed manual transmission is precise and engaging, and the car’s handling is sharp and responsive.
- Subaru WRX STI⁚ The WRX STI is a rally-inspired performance sedan that’s renowned for its all-wheel drive system and its powerful turbocharged engine. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, and the six-speed manual transmission is smooth and precise. The WRX STI is also surprisingly comfortable for a performance car.
- Mazda MX-5 Miata⁚ The MX-5 Miata is a lightweight roadster that’s designed for pure driving enjoyment. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, and the six-speed manual transmission is a joy to use. The Miata’s handling is superb, and its convertible top makes it perfect for sunny days.
Performance Sedans
- Ford Focus ST⁚ The Focus ST is a hot hatch that’s both practical and fun to drive. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 252 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, and the six-speed manual transmission is smooth and precise. The Focus ST is also surprisingly comfortable for a performance car.
- Volkswagen Golf GTI⁚ The Golf GTI is a classic hot hatch that’s known for its balanced handling and fun-to-drive nature. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, and the six-speed manual transmission is precise and engaging. The GTI is also comfortable and practical.
- Hyundai Veloster N⁚ The Veloster N is a performance hatchback that’s designed to be a serious contender on the track. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and the six-speed manual transmission is precise and engaging. The Veloster N’s handling is sharp and responsive, and its suspension is firm but comfortable.
Affordable Options
- Honda Civic Si⁚ The Civic Si is a performance sedan that’s both affordable and fun to drive. Its 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 205 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, and the six-speed manual transmission is precise and engaging. The Civic Si is also comfortable and practical.
- Mazda3⁚ The Mazda3 is a compact car that’s known for its sharp styling and engaging driving dynamics. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and the six-speed manual transmission is smooth and precise. The Mazda3 is also comfortable and fuel-efficient.
- Fiat 500 Abarth⁚ The Fiat 500 Abarth is a small but sporty hatchback that’s a lot of fun to drive. Its 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 160 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque, and the five-speed manual transmission is short-throw and engaging. The Abarth is also surprisingly practical for a small car.
These are just a few of the many great manual transmission cars available in 2019. Whether you’re looking for a sports car, a performance sedan, or an affordable option, there’s a manual transmission car out there for you. So get out there and enjoy the joy of driving!