As gearheads, we all know that driving a manual transmission is the pinnacle of automotive enjoyment. But with each passing year, it seems like there are fewer and fewer stick shift options available on the market. Sure, we’ll always have the Porsche 911, Mazda Miata, and Toyobaru 86/BRZ, and you know the easiest way to SAVE THE MANUALS is to snag our limited Ideal Tee… but we’ve discovered some surprising contenders fighting to keep the manual dream alive. These eight cars, plus a few honorable mentions, are the unsung heroes of the 2023 manual transmission movement. Buckle up and let’s dive in!
- Ford Bronco (4-Cylinder) Who would’ve thought that an off-roading beast like the Ford Bronco would come to the rescue of manual transmissions? Sure, it’s limited to the 4-cylinder engine option, but with 300 horsepower under the hood, who’s complaining? Plus, you can choose between a nifty 6-speed or a 7-speed option for extra precision during your off-roading adventures.
- American Muscle Trio Detroit hasn’t given up on the stick shift just yet, as the Chevy Camaro, Dodge Challenger, and Ford Mustang still come equipped with 3-pedal options. Hurry up, though, because the Camaro and Challenger won’t be around for much longer!
- Cadillac Blackwings Cadillac has been on fire lately, offering not one, but two manual transmission options for enthusiasts. The CT4-V and CT5-V Blackwings are packed with power, style, and a whole lot of attitude. Who said luxury and manual transmissions can’t go hand in hand?
- BMW M2 BMW continues to live up to its “Ultimate Driving Machine” moniker with the 2023 M2. With a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged straight-six engine, 453 horsepower, and a standard six-speed manual, the M2 is a force to be reckoned with.
- Toyota GR Supra While the BMW Z4 comes automatic only, the Toyota-badged version, aka the Mk5 Supra, gets the 3-pedal treatment. With jaw-dropping looks and impressive speed, the return of the manual transmission Supra is definitely worth celebrating.
- Nissan Z The Nissan Z car has been delighting drivers for decades, and the latest model keeps the tradition alive. With a twin-turbocharged V6 engine and a 6-speed manual, the new Nissan Z delivers 400 horsepower and is perfect for gearheads who want a more premium package.
- Honda Civic Type R The newest generation Civic Type R may not have the same wild looks as the FK8, but it’s just as exciting to drive. With a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, 315 horsepower, and a spacious hatchback design, the Type R is the ideal daily driver that can still turn heads on the track.
- Toyota GR Corolla The GR Corolla has surprisingly become the new king of hot hatches. With a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-3 engine producing 300 horsepower and an all-wheel-drive powertrain, the GR Corolla is a true gem for manual transmission enthusiasts.
Honorable Mentions:
- Hyundai Elantra N
- Volkswagen GTI
- Mazda 3 Hatchback
There you have it, folks! These eight cars, along with some notable mentions, are keeping the manual transmission dream alive in 2023. So, which of these stick shift saviors is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
