In a world increasingly dominated by automatics‚ manual transmissions still hold a special place in the hearts of driving enthusiasts. The visceral experience of rowing through gears‚ the tactile feedback of the clutch‚ and the sheer joy of being in complete control of the car’s power delivery are all factors that make manual cars so appealing.
If you’re looking for a new car with a manual gearbox‚ you’re in luck! 2018 saw a number of great options hit the market‚ catering to a wide range of budgets and tastes. Here’s a look at some of the top manual transmission cars of 2018⁚
Sports Cars
1. Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is the undisputed king of affordable sports cars‚ and its manual transmission is one of the best in the business. It’s a joy to shift‚ with precise throws and a satisfyingly mechanical feel. The Miata’s light weight and balanced handling make it a blast to drive on twisty roads.
2. Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86
The Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 are twins under the skin‚ sharing a platform and engine. They’re both rear-wheel drive sports cars with a focus on handling and driving engagement. The manual gearbox is smooth and precise‚ making it easy to get the most out of the car’s performance.
3. Honda Civic Si
The Honda Civic Si is a hot hatch that offers a surprisingly engaging driving experience. The manual transmission is a delight to use‚ with short throws and a satisfyingly crisp feel. The Si’s turbocharged engine provides plenty of power‚ and the car’s handling is sharp and precise.
Sedans
4. Volkswagen Golf GTI
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a legendary hot hatch that continues to impress with its blend of performance and practicality. The manual transmission is a masterpiece of engineering‚ with short throws and a precise feel. The GTI’s turbocharged engine provides plenty of power‚ and the car’s handling is agile and fun.
5. Ford Focus ST
The Ford Focus ST is another great option for enthusiasts looking for a hot hatch with a manual transmission. The Focus ST’s turbocharged engine is a beast‚ and the car’s handling is sharp and responsive. The manual gearbox is smooth and precise‚ making it easy to exploit the car’s performance potential.
Trucks
6. Toyota Tacoma
For those who need a truck but don’t want to sacrifice the joy of driving‚ the Toyota Tacoma is a great choice. The Tacoma’s manual transmission is smooth and durable‚ and it’s well-suited for off-road driving. The Tacoma’s powerful engine and rugged chassis make it a capable workhorse‚ while its comfortable interior makes it a pleasant place to spend time.
7. Chevrolet Colorado ZR2
The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 is a hardcore off-road truck that’s also surprisingly fun to drive on the road. The Colorado ZR2’s manual transmission is a bit rougher than some of the others on this list‚ but it’s still capable and durable. The ZR2’s powerful engine and advanced off-road suspension make it a force to be reckoned with on the trails.
Conclusion
The manual transmission is far from dead. In fact‚ it’s still alive and well‚ offering a unique and engaging driving experience that can’t be replicated by an automatic gearbox. If you’re looking for a new car that’s fun to drive‚ be sure to check out these top manual transmission cars of 2018. You won’t be disappointed!