In a world increasingly dominated by automatics and dual-clutch transmissions, finding a car with a manual gearbox can feel like searching for a dinosaur. But fear not, gearheads! There are still a handful of manufacturers who recognize the joy of rowing your own gears, offering manual transmission options in their 2019 model year lineups.
Here are some of the top cars that still let you experience the visceral thrill of a stick shift⁚
Sports Cars
- Mazda MX-5 Miata⁚ The iconic roadster remains a manual transmission purists dream, offering a direct, engaging driving experience.
- Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86⁚ These twins offer a lightweight, agile platform perfect for enthusiasts who want a rewarding manual driving experience.
- Ford Mustang⁚ The muscle car icon still offers a manual gearbox, allowing you to unleash its power in a truly visceral way.
- Chevrolet Camaro⁚ The Camaro, like its Ford rival, offers a manual transmission option for those who want to feel the cars raw power.
- Honda Civic Type R⁚ This hot hatch packs a punch and offers a precise, engaging manual transmission.
Performance Sedans
- Volkswagen Golf GTI⁚ The GTI has always been a hot hatch icon, and its manual transmission option provides a classic, sporty feel.
- Subaru WRX⁚ The WRX offers a powerful turbocharged engine and a manual gearbox that makes it a true rally-inspired driving experience.
- Honda Civic Si⁚ The Si is a more affordable option than the Type R, but still offers a spirited driving experience with its manual transmission.
Affordable Options
- Honda Fit⁚ The Fit is a practical, fuel-efficient hatchback that still offers a manual transmission option.
- Hyundai Elantra GT⁚ The Elantra GT offers a sporty driving experience with its available manual transmission.
- Kia Forte⁚ The Forte is another affordable sedan that offers a manual transmission option, making it a great choice for budget-minded drivers.
While the number of manual transmission cars may be dwindling, there are still plenty of great options available for those who appreciate the art of shifting gears. Whether youre looking for a sporty roadster, a powerful sedan, or a practical hatchback, theres a manual transmission car out there thats perfect for you.
Beyond the Mainstream
While the above list covers some of the most popular manual transmission cars, there are also some hidden gems waiting to be discovered. For those seeking a truly unique driving experience, consider these options⁚
- Fiat 124 Spider⁚ A stylish Italian roadster with a charming manual gearbox, the 124 Spider offers a taste of European driving flair.
- Mazda 3⁚ The Mazda 3 is a refined hatchback with a surprisingly engaging manual transmission option, offering a more affordable alternative to the GTI.
- Scion FR-S (now Toyota 86)⁚ The FR-S was a cult classic for its engaging handling and manual transmission. Its successor, the Toyota 86, continues this legacy.
- Ford Focus ST⁚ The Focus ST is a hot hatch that offers a manual transmission option for drivers who want a more engaging driving experience.
- Chevrolet Sonic⁚ The Sonic is a small hatchback with a manual transmission option, offering a fun and affordable driving experience.
The Future of Manual Transmission
Despite the growing popularity of automatic and dual-clutch transmissions, the manual gearbox still holds a special place in the hearts of many drivers. The tactile experience of shifting gears, the ability to truly control the cars power, and the sense of accomplishment that comes with mastering the art of driving a manual transmission are qualities that cannot be replicated by automated systems.
While the number of manual transmission cars may continue to decline, there are still plenty of options available for those who appreciate the pure driving experience. So if youre looking for a car that offers a true connection to the road, dont be afraid to give a manual transmission a try. You might just be surprised at how much you enjoy it.