In a world increasingly dominated by automatic transmissions, finding a new car with a manual gearbox can feel like searching for a unicorn. But fear not, gearheads! While the selection may be shrinking, there are still some excellent compact and subcompact cars out there that offer the engaging driving experience of a stick shift.
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Why Choose a Manual Transmission?
- More Control⁚ Manuals give you direct control over gear selection, allowing for more precise acceleration and braking.
- Fuel Efficiency⁚ Manuals can be slightly more fuel-efficient than their automatic counterparts, especially in city driving.
- Engaging Driving Experience⁚ Many drivers find the act of shifting gears to be more enjoyable and engaging than simply pressing a pedal.
- Lower Cost⁚ Manual transmissions are typically less expensive to manufacture and repair than automatics.
Top 2019 Compact and Subcompact Cars with Manuals⁚
Compact Cars⁚
- Honda Civic⁚ The Civic continues to be a popular choice for its sporty handling and fuel efficiency. The Si trim offers a rev-happy 1.5-liter turbocharged engine paired with a slick 6-speed manual.
- Mazda3⁚ The Mazda3 has always been a driver’s car, and the manual transmission only enhances that experience. The 2.5-liter engine delivers smooth power and the 6-speed gearbox is a joy to use.
- Subaru Impreza⁚ The Impreza is a practical and capable hatchback that’s also surprisingly fun to drive. The 2.0-liter engine is paired with a 5-speed manual that makes the most of its power.
- Volkswagen Golf GTI⁚ The GTI is a legend in the hot hatch world, known for its sharp handling, powerful engine, and engaging manual transmission.
- Hyundai Elantra Sport⁚ The Elantra Sport offers a sporty driving experience with its 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and 6-speed manual transmission.
Subcompact Cars⁚
- Honda Fit⁚ The Fit is a small but spacious hatchback that’s perfect for city driving. The 1.5-liter engine is paired with a 6-speed manual that makes it surprisingly fun to drive.
- Mazda2⁚ The Mazda2 is a stylish and fuel-efficient subcompact that offers a surprisingly engaging driving experience thanks to its 6-speed manual transmission.
- Ford Fiesta ST⁚ The Fiesta ST is a hot hatch that packs a punch with its 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and 6-speed manual transmission.
- Chevrolet Spark⁚ The Spark is a fun and affordable city car that’s available with a 5-speed manual transmission.
This list is just a starting point, and there are other great compact and subcompact cars with manual transmissions available. So, if you’re looking for a car that offers a more engaging driving experience, be sure to check out these models.