Table of Contents
1. The Manual Transmission’s Resilience
For decades, the manual gearbox has been the hallmark of driving purists, offering a tactile connection that many feel is missing in modern automatics. Yet, as automakers increasingly favor seamless gearboxes and electric drivetrains, the stick shift has slipped from showroom floors. The trend is clear: every year a new model drops the stick, and the average buyer seems to prefer the convenience of an automatic. But the manual is not dead. A handful of manufacturers still produce cars that demand the left‑foot to be active, keeping the tradition alive for those who value control.
2. The 2027 Manual‑Transmission Lineup
In 2027, ten models still offer a manual gearbox, each catering to a distinct segment of the market. From the rugged Jeep Wrangler to the high‑performance BMW M4, these cars prove that the stick shift can coexist with modern performance and technology. Below is a quick look at each model and what makes it stand out.
3. Highlights from the Top Ten
10. Jeep Wrangler – The Wrangler remains the most iconic off‑road vehicle with a six‑speed manual paired to a V6. Its smooth shift and direct gear control make it ideal for crawling over technical terrain, while the V6 provides enough power for highway cruising.
9. Nissan Z Nismo – The Z is the sole manual in Nissan’s lineup, featuring a six‑speed gearbox that mates to a twin‑turbo 3‑liter V6 producing 400 horsepower. The Nismo package adds stiffer suspension, upgraded brakes, and a more aggressive tuning, keeping the manual experience sharp.
8. Toyota GR Series (GR86, GR Corolla, GR Supra, Tacoma) – Toyota keeps the manual alive across four models. The GR86 and GR Corolla offer six‑speed manuals in lightweight, rear‑wheel‑drive platforms, while the GR Supra brings a turbo‑charged 3‑liter boxer to an all‑wheel‑drive layout. The Tacoma, a mid‑size truck, is the only American truck still offering a manual, a rarity in the segment.
7. Ford Mustang and Bronco – The Mustang’s GT and Dark Horse variants both feature six‑speed manuals, with the Dark Horse delivering 500 horsepower from a Coyote V8. The Bronco also offers a manual, though it is paired with a smaller four‑cylinder engine, highlighting the brand’s commitment to the stick shift.
6. Hyundai Elantra N – A front‑wheel‑drive sedan that surprises with a turbocharged 2‑liter four‑cylinder engine producing 276 horsepower. Its six‑speed manual includes a temporary overboost function that adds a burst of power when the driver presses a button, adding a playful element to everyday driving.
5. Volkswagen Jetta GLI – The GLI’s 2‑liter turbo four delivers 228 horsepower with early torque and a flat rev range. Its six‑speed manual feels precise, with short throws and clean gates, making it a sensible choice for those who want a real car for real life.
4. Subaru BRZ and WRX – The BRZ, a lightweight, rear‑wheel‑drive coupe, pairs a naturally aspirated flat‑four with a manual, rewarding clean driving. The WRX, meanwhile, offers a six‑speed manual mated to a turbo‑charged boxer and all‑wheel drive, providing a different kind of engagement that the automatic cannot replicate.
3. Mazda 3 and Miata – Mazda’s philosophy of “Jinba Ittai” is embodied in the Miata, the only car on the list that makes the manual feel essential. Its six‑speed gearbox has a short, precise throw, and the lightweight 2‑liter engine delivers 181 horsepower, enough to keep the car alive on the open road.
2. Honda Civic Type R – The Civic Type R is a front‑wheel‑drive hot hatch that refuses to offer an automatic. Its 2‑liter turbocharged engine produces 315 horsepower, and the six‑speed manual is the star of the show, delivering a lively driving experience that balances performance with everyday usability.
4. Honorable Mentions and Future Outlook
While the list focuses on the top ten, several other models deserve recognition. The Porsche 911 still offers a 7‑speed manual, and the Cadillac CT5 and CT4 Blackwing models feature a six‑speed manual that competes with European rivals. The Acura Integra returns with a 6‑speed manual, and the BMW M2, M3, M4, and Z4 collectively offer a range of high‑performance manuals that keep the brand at the forefront of the stick‑shift conversation.
As automakers continue to push toward electrification, the manual transmission’s future may seem uncertain. However, the persistence of these models shows that there remains a dedicated segment of drivers who value the engagement and control that only a stick shift can provide. Whether it’s the thrill of a manual in a high‑performance coupe or the practicality of a manual in a rugged off‑road vehicle, the manual transmission continues to carve out its niche in the evolving automotive landscape.