Remember the satisfying feel of a stick shift in your hand, the precise engagement of the clutch, and the direct connection to your car? For many driving enthusiasts, nothing beats the engagement and control of a manual transmission. While automatic transmissions have become increasingly sophisticated and dominant in the automotive market, the good news is that the stick shift is far from extinct.
For those who still crave that hands-on driving experience, 2025 offers a surprising number of new cars equipped with manual transmissions. From sporty coupes and sedans to rugged SUVs and even a pickup truck, the stick shift lives on in a diverse range of vehicles. Let’s dive into the exciting world of Stick Shift Cars available in 2025 and explore the models that keep the manual spirit alive.
Acura Stick Shift Lineup
Acura is keeping the flame burning for manual transmissions, offering stick shifts in two compelling models:
Acura Integra
The Acura Integra brings back a celebrated nameplate with modern appeal and, crucially, a stick shift option. The base Integra pairs a slick six-speed manual transmission with front-wheel drive and a spirited turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 200 horsepower. This combination offers an engaging and fun-to-drive experience for enthusiasts who appreciate a well-balanced sport compact. And with a starting price around $34,195, the 2025 Integra manual is an accessible entry point into the world of stick shift cars.
Acura Integra Type S
For those seeking even more performance, the Acura Integra Type S is the answer. This sporty variant exclusively features a six-speed manual transmission, highlighting Acura’s commitment to driver engagement in its performance models. Under the hood, a potent turbocharged 2.0-liter engine cranks out an impressive 320 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, all sent to the front wheels. The Integra Type S delivers thrilling acceleration and precise handling, making it a standout stick shift car in its class.
BMW: The King of Manuals?
BMW boasts the most extensive lineup of stick shift cars of any single brand in 2025, with four distinct models offering the joy of manual shifting.
BMW M2
The BMW M2 is the entry point into BMW’s M performance division but offers a driving experience that’s anything but entry-level, especially with the manual gearbox. The 2025 BMW M2 pairs a six-speed manual transmission with a ferocious twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine generating 453 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. While an eight-speed automatic is available, the manual transmission is the purist’s choice, offering maximum driver involvement and control in this compact performance coupe.
BMW M3
The iconic BMW M3 sedan continues to offer a stick shift for the 2025 model year, though with a slight caveat. To get the six-speed manual in the M3, you need to opt for the rear-wheel-drive base model, which still delivers a potent 473 horsepower. The higher-performance M3 Competition models, with up to 523 horsepower, are exclusively paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This strategy from BMW caters to drivers who prioritize the classic manual driving experience in the M3.
BMW M4
Similar to the M3, the BMW M4 coupe also reserves the six-speed manual transmission for the rear-wheel-drive base model in 2025. This M4 configuration delivers 473 horsepower and the engaging driving dynamics that come with a stick shift. The more powerful M4 Competition and M4 Competition xDrive models, boasting up to 523 horsepower, are only available with the eight-speed automatic, again emphasizing the manual for the purist rear-drive experience.
BMW Z4
BMW finally answered enthusiasts’ calls and introduced a manual transmission option for the Z4 roadster in 2024, continuing into 2025. This six-speed convertible is exclusively available in the higher-performance M40i trim, which is hardly a compromise. The Z4 M40i manual is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing a robust 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Combining open-top driving with a stick shift and a powerful inline-six, the BMW Z4 M40i is a compelling choice for those seeking a sporty and engaging roadster.
Cadillac’s V-Series Stick Shift Sedans
Cadillac continues to offer high-performance stick shift cars in its V-Series lineup, demonstrating a commitment to driver engagement in the luxury performance segment.
Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
The Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing remains a top choice for enthusiasts seeking a compact, high-performance stick shift sedan. It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, with a 10-speed automatic available as an option. Powering the CT4-V Blackwing is a twin-turbocharged 3.6-liter V-6 engine producing a formidable 472 horsepower and 445 pound-feet of torque. Starting at $63,590, the 2025 CT4-V Blackwing offers exceptional performance and driver involvement at a competitive price point.
Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing
The larger Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing takes the stick shift experience to an even higher level of performance. This super sedan also features a standard six-speed manual transmission, paired with a monstrous supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 engine. This combination unleashes a staggering 668 horsepower and 659 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. The 2025 CT5-V Blackwing, starting at $96,990, is a true testament to Cadillac’s dedication to raw power and driver engagement in a luxurious package.
Ford: Stick Shifts Across Segments
Ford offers stick shift cars in diverse vehicle types, from SUVs to iconic sports cars, appealing to a broad range of driving enthusiasts.
Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco stands out as one of the few SUVs available with a manual transmission in 2025. A seven-speed manual is offered on Base, Big Bend, Badlands, and Heritage Edition Bronco models. This manual gearbox is paired with the standard turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower. For off-road enthusiasts who value control and engagement on the trails, the stick shift Bronco is a unique and appealing option.
Ford Mustang
The Ford Mustang, an iconic American muscle car, continues to offer a stick shift for the 2025 model year, much to the delight of driving purists. The six-speed manual transmission is available on the Mustang GT and Dark Horse models, which produce 480 and 500 horsepower respectively. Whether you choose the GT, starting at $48,155 with a manual, or the higher-performance Dark Horse, starting at $65,975, the manual Mustang delivers a classic and visceral driving experience.
Hypercar Stick Shift: Hennessey Venom F5
Hennessey Venom F5
For those with unlimited budgets and a desire for the ultimate stick shift experience, the Hennessey Venom F5-M Roadster is in a league of its own. This American-built hypercar boasts a gated six-speed manual transmission and an astonishing 1,817 horsepower. Hennessey claims it’s the most powerful manual car in the world. With a price tag of $2.65 million, the Venom F5-M Roadster is an ultra-exclusive and extreme example of the stick shift’s enduring appeal, even at the pinnacle of automotive performance.
Honda’s Sporty Stick Shift Civics
Honda maintains its reputation for driver-focused cars by offering stick shift options in its sporty Civic models.
Honda Civic Si
While Honda discontinued the manual transmission in the base Civic sedan and hatchback, the stick shift lives on in the sporty Civic Si. The 2025 Civic Si exclusively offers a six-speed manual transmission, paired with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower. The Civic Si manual provides a fun and engaging driving experience in a practical and affordable package, starting at $31,400.
Honda Civic Type R
The high-performance Honda Civic Type R also remains a stick shift-only affair for 2025, further emphasizing Honda’s commitment to driver engagement in its flagship hot hatchback. Like the Integra Type S, the Type R features a six-speed manual transmission mated to a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, here producing 315 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Civic Type R manual delivers blistering performance and razor-sharp handling, making it a benchmark in the front-wheel-drive performance car segment. The 2025 model starts at $47,045.
Hyundai Elantra N: The Last Manual N Car
Hyundai Elantra N
The Hyundai Elantra N stands out as the last gas-powered N model in Hyundai’s lineup to offer a manual transmission. The Elantra N pairs a six-speed manual with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. While an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission is also available, the manual option caters to driving enthusiasts who prefer a more direct and engaging connection with the car.
Jeep Wrangler: Manual Option Returns
Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is an icon of off-road capability and customization, and for 2025, it continues to offer a manual transmission option. The base 2025 Wrangler is available with both a six-speed manual and an automatic transmission, both paired with the standard 3.6-liter V-6 engine. The availability of a stick shift in the Wrangler reinforces its appeal to off-road enthusiasts who value control and driver involvement in challenging terrains.
Lotus Emira: Stick Shift Sports Car
Lotus Emira
Lotus, renowned for its lightweight and driver-focused sports cars, offers the Emira as its sole stick shift model in the 2025 lineup. The six-speed manual transmission comes standard with the supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine, which produces 400 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Emira manual delivers the pure and engaging driving experience that Lotus is known for, connecting the driver directly to the car’s performance and dynamics.
Mazda: Stick Shifts in Unexpected Places
Mazda, a brand known for its “zoom-zoom” driving philosophy, surprisingly offers stick shifts in more models than some might expect.
Mazda3
The Mazda3 compact car, while not overtly sporty in its standard trims, still offers a stick shift option for driving enthusiasts. The front-wheel-drive Mazda3 2.5S Premium trim comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, paired with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. While limited to this specific trim and body style, the manual Mazda3 offers a more engaging driving experience in the compact car segment.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Of course, the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the quintessential affordable roadster, continues to offer a stick shift for 2025. The Miata offers a six-speed manual transmission in both the standard soft-top convertible and the hard-top RF model. Both trims are powered by the same spirited 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. The Miata manual remains a benchmark for affordable, fun, and engaging stick shift sports cars.
Nissan: Budget-Friendly and Sporty Stick Shifts
Nissan caters to both budget-conscious buyers and sports car enthusiasts with its stick shift offerings.
Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa subcompact sedan is an unlikely hero for stick shift enthusiasts, particularly those on a budget. For 2025, the base Versa S model retains its five-speed manual transmission, helping it maintain its position as one of the most affordable cars in America. The 2025 Versa starts at a remarkably low $18,330, making it the most accessible new stick shift car on the market.
Nissan Z
The Nissan Z sports car, a successor to the legendary Z lineage, thankfully continues to offer a stick shift for the 2025 model year. The six-speed manual transmission is available on the Sport, Performance, and Heritage Edition trims of the Z. This manual gearbox is paired with a potent twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine producing 400 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. The Nissan Z manual offers a compelling blend of performance and driver engagement in a stylish and modern sports car.
Porsche: Stick Shifts in Iconic Sports Cars
Porsche, synonymous with sports car excellence, continues to offer stick shifts in its legendary models, appealing to purists and driving enthusiasts.
Porsche 718 Boxster / Cayman
The Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman sports cars, while potentially nearing the end of their gasoline-powered era, thankfully still offer a standard six-speed manual transmission in 2025. Porsche recognizes the importance of the manual gearbox for a segment of its enthusiast customer base, offering it alongside the optional seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission.
Porsche 911
The iconic Porsche 911, a benchmark in the sports car world, would be unimaginable to many without a stick shift option. For 2025, Porsche continues to offer the six-speed manual on the 911 Carrera T and GT3 models. The Carrera T pairs the manual with a twin-turbocharged flat-six producing 388 horsepower, while the GT3 uses a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six with 502 horsepower. Whether you choose the Carrera T or the GT3, the manual 911 delivers an unparalleled sports car driving experience.
Subaru: Stick Shifts Across Performance Models
Subaru, known for its all-wheel-drive and rally-inspired heritage, offers stick shifts in its performance-oriented models.
Subaru BRZ
The Subaru BRZ affordable sports car remains a strong advocate for the stick shift in 2025. The BRZ comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission across all trims, paired with a 2.4-liter Boxer engine producing 228 horsepower. The BRZ manual offers a balanced and engaging rear-wheel-drive driving experience at an accessible price point.
Subaru WRX
Subaru’s iconic WRX sports sedan also continues to offer a stick shift for 2025. The WRX pairs a standard six-speed manual transmission with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder boxer engine producing 271 horsepower. The manual is available on the Base, Premium, Limited, and the new-for-2025 WRX tS models. Starting at a reasonable $33,855, the WRX manual offers rally-bred performance and all-weather capability with the added engagement of a stick shift.
Toyota: Stick Shifts in Sports Cars and Trucks
Toyota offers stick shifts in both its sports car and truck lineups, catering to diverse driving preferences.
Toyota GR86
The Toyota GR86, sibling to the Subaru BRZ, predictably also continues to offer a stick shift for 2025. The GR86 pairs a six-speed manual transmission with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder boxer engine producing 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The GR86 manual provides a similar engaging and affordable rear-wheel-drive sports car experience to the BRZ. The Hakone Edition returns for 2025, but you can get into a new GR86 manual for as little as $31,135.
Toyota GR Corolla
The Toyota GR Corolla hot hatchback, even with the introduction of an automatic transmission option for 2025, thankfully retains its standard manual gearbox. The GR Corolla comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, paired with a potent turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The GR Corolla manual offers exhilarating performance and a rally-inspired driving experience in a practical hatchback form factor.
Toyota GR Supra
The Toyota GR Supra sports car, while sales might not be as high as initially anticipated, still offers a stick shift option for enthusiasts in 2025. The GR Supra offers a six-speed manual transmission option across both trims, paired with the now-standard turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 382 horsepower. The availability of a manual in the Supra reinforces Toyota’s commitment to catering to driving purists in its sports car lineup.
Toyota Tacoma
In a surprising twist, the Toyota Tacoma pickup truck stands out as the only truck you can buy new with a manual transmission in 2025. The Tacoma offers a six-speed manual transmission option on the SR, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-Road trims. The availability of a stick shift in the Tacoma caters to truck buyers who value control and a more traditional driving experience, even in a modern pickup.
Volkswagen Jetta GLI: Stick Shift Sedan Lives On
Volkswagen Jetta GLI
While Volkswagen sadly discontinued the manual transmission in the GTI and Golf R for 2025, the stick shift lives on in the Jetta GLI sedan. The 2025 Jetta GLI continues to offer a six-speed manual transmission, paired with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The Jetta GLI manual offers a sporty and engaging driving experience in a practical and affordable sedan package.
Long Live the Stick Shift
Despite the automotive industry’s shift towards automatic transmissions and electric vehicles, the stick shift is not dead. As this list demonstrates, nearly 30 cars in 2025 still offer the engaging and rewarding experience of manual shifting. From budget-friendly compacts to high-performance sports cars and even a truck, the stick shift car continues to cater to driving enthusiasts who value control, connection, and the pure joy of driving. So, if you’re a fan of the clutch pedal and the gear lever, 2025 offers a diverse and exciting range of stick shift cars to choose from.
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