Manual transmission cars still going strong in 2025

Why driving stick still stands strong in 2025

Manual transmission cars may not dominate sales anymore, but they continue to attract drivers who enjoy control, connection, and performance. A small number of manufacturers, around 19 in the U.S., still offer manual transmission models for enthusiast buyers.

These cars offer a more engaging experience compared to automatic options. In 2025, manual cars stand out as symbols of tradition, skill, and personal driving enjoyment.

2025 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Volkswagen continues to offer a manual option with the 2025 Jetta GLI, unlike other Jetta models that dropped it. Every GLI includes a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 228 horsepower, paired with a six-speed manual.

The sport sedan also has a roomy cabin, though some materials feel less refined compared to rivals. Standard technology includes a digital instrument cluster, an 8-inch touch screen, and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

2025 Nissan Z

The 2025 Nissan Z is a two-seat sports car powered by a 400-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6 engine. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, delivering power to the rear wheels with strong acceleration.

The automatic-only Nismo version provides even more power, but the manual remains the core enthusiast’s choice. Inside, Nissan offers a 12.3-inch digital cluster, wired smartphone connectivity, and driver-assistance features, though interior materials could be nicer.

2025 Ford Bronco

The 2025 Ford Bronco remains a rugged SUV designed for off-road adventures with a manual option. The 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine makes 275 horsepower.

It pairs with a seven-speed manual transmission that includes a dedicated crawl gear for trail driving. Ford reintroduced the base model this year and added the Stroppe Special Edition and Free Wheeling package.

2025 BMW M4

The BMW M4 delivers sports car performance while keeping daily usability in mind. Its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine makes 473 horsepower, paired to a six-speed manual with rear-wheel drive.

Updates for 2025 include the iDrive 8.5 infotainment system with sharper graphics and quicker responses. The cabin also features a digital instrument cluster, Harman/Kardon sound system, and standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

2025 Toyota GR Corolla

Toyota’s GR Corolla continues as a compact hatchback that emphasizes power and control. It has a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine making 300 horsepower, with torque raised to 295 pound-feet for 2025.

A six-speed manual transmission remains standard even though Toyota added an automatic option this year. Suspension updates improve traction, and the GR-Four all-wheel-drive system uses a variable torque split.

2025 Ford Mustang

Ford keeps manual transmissions alive with the Mustang GT and Dark Horse models in 2025. The Mustang GT produces 480 horsepower, while the Dark Horse increases that to 500 horsepower.

Both engines come paired with a six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive. The Dark Horse also features Brembo brakes, MagneRide adaptive suspension, and a 60th-Anniversary edition joins the lineup.

2025 Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma is one of the few midsize trucks still offering a manual transmission. A six-speed manual is available on SR, TRD Off-Road, and TRD Sport trims.

Power comes from a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing either 228 or 270 horsepower. Buyers can choose between Xtra Cab and Double Cab configurations, with both 5-foot and 6-foot bed options.

2025 BMW M3

The 2025 BMW M3 remains a sports sedan that mixes performance with comfort and technology. Its base trim comes with a six-speed manual paired to a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six making 473 horsepower.

Higher trims use an automatic, but the stick shift remains free on the entry model. BMW also added new exterior design touches and updated the infotainment with M-specific graphics.

2025 BMW Z4

BMW reintroduced a manual option for the Z4 in 2025 through the Handschalter Package. Available on the Z4 M40i, it pairs a six-speed manual with a 382-horsepower 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six.

The package also adds revised steering and suspension tuning, along with unique wheels. Inside, the Z4 provides a comfortable roadster layout with firm seats and a trunk offering 9.9 cubic feet of space.

2025 Toyota Supra

The Toyota Supra lineup now uses only the 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 382 horsepower. A six-speed manual remains optional alongside the automatic transmission, with power going to the rear wheels.

Additional performance features include adaptive suspension, Brembo brakes, and a limited-slip differential. Inside, buyers find a 14-way power driver’s seat, a 10-speaker system, optional leather, and wireless Apple CarPlay.

2025 Porsche 911

The Porsche 911 continues as one of the most iconic sports cars, now offering two manual choices. The Carrera T uses a six-speed manual paired to a 388-horsepower flat-six engine.

The GT3 raises performance further, delivering 502 horsepower with a manual option available. Both models use rear-wheel drive and combine everyday usability with sharp, precise cornering and track-ready handling.

2025 Toyota GR86

Toyota’s GR86 shares most traits with the Subaru BRZ but gains unique editions for 2025. It uses a Subaru-sourced 2.4-liter flat-four engine producing 228 horsepower with a six-speed manual transmission.

A Hakone Edition adds green paint, bronze wheels, Brembo brakes, and Sachs dampers. The GR86 has four seats, though the rear area is extremely tight and best suited for storage.

2025 Subaru WRX

The Subaru WRX blends everyday usability with strong performance, making it a standout compact sports sedan. It comes with a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine that produces 271 horsepower and pairs with a six-speed manual transmission.

For 2025, Subaru introduced the STI-tuned WRX tS trim, which replaces the WRX TR model. The new trim includes upgraded brakes, stronger suspension, and sporty seats.

2025 Hyundai Elantra N

The Hyundai Elantra N is a sporty compact sedan that focuses on performance value. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 276 horsepower and connects to a six-speed manual transmission.

The manual version includes automatic rev-matching, providing smoother downshifts for better control. Standard features include adaptive suspension, active exhaust, and drive modes that adjust throttle, steering, and sound.

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2025 Porsche Cayman

The Porsche Cayman is built for handling precision rather than pure luxury. A six-speed manual transmission is available across models, paired with engines ranging from 300 to 394 horsepower.

The Cayman GTS version upgrades with adaptive suspension and a torque-vectoring rear differential for sharper performance. Every model uses rear-wheel drive, giving the Cayman a balanced and responsive driving experience.

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This slideshow was made with AI assistance and human editing.