In a world increasingly dominated by automatics, the manual transmission remains a cherished relic for driving enthusiasts. The act of shifting gears, the tactile connection to the engine, the pure joy of control ⎻ these are elements that many drivers find irreplaceable. If you’re looking for a car that offers this visceral experience, 2019 had some excellent options to choose from.
Sports Cars
1. Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Miata remains the benchmark for affordable, engaging roadster fun. Its lightweight chassis, responsive engine, and precise steering make it a joy to drive on winding roads. The manual transmission is a perfect match for its character, allowing you to fully exploit its playful nature.
2. Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86
The BRZ and 86 twins offer a similar recipe to the Miata, but with a slightly more powerful engine and a more aggressive stance. The manual gearbox is precise and engaging, making it an ideal choice for spirited driving.
3. Honda Civic Type R
For those seeking a more hardcore experience, the Civic Type R delivers in spades. Its turbocharged engine, aggressive styling, and race-inspired chassis make it a true performance machine. The short-throw manual transmission is a delight to use, allowing you to quickly and smoothly shift through the gears.
Hot Hatches
1. Volkswagen Golf GTI
The GTI has been a manual transmission icon for decades, and the 2019 model continues that tradition. Its turbocharged engine provides ample power, while its well-balanced chassis and precise steering make it a joy to drive. The manual gearbox is smooth and engaging, offering a perfect blend of performance and practicality.
2. Honda Civic Si
The Civic Si offers a similar blend of performance and practicality as the GTI, but with a more aggressive driving experience. Its naturally aspirated engine provides a linear power delivery that’s perfect for revving, and the manual gearbox is precise and engaging.
3; Ford Focus ST
The Focus ST is a compelling option for those seeking a more affordable hot hatch. Its turbocharged engine delivers strong performance, while its sharp handling and engaging manual transmission make it a blast to drive.
Affordable Options
1. Hyundai Elantra Sport
The Elantra Sport offers a surprisingly engaging driving experience for its price point. Its turbocharged engine is punchy, and the manual gearbox is smooth and precise. It’s a great choice for those looking for an affordable car with a bit of personality.
2. Mazda3
The Mazda3 is known for its stylish design and refined driving experience. The manual transmission adds an extra layer of engagement to its already impressive driving dynamics. It’s a great all-around car that happens to be available with a stick shift.
Conclusion
While automatic transmissions are becoming increasingly popular, the manual transmission continues to hold a special place in the hearts of driving enthusiasts. The cars on this list represent some of the best manual transmission options available in 2019, offering a range of performance, style, and affordability. If you’re looking for a car that will put a smile on your face and engage your senses, consider giving one of these manual transmission marvels a try.