Stick shift (Photo by Alok Sharma on Unsplash)
If you love the experience of shifting gears manually as you drive, you are part of a shrinking club. Stick shift cars are becoming rare, and most newly licensed teens probably wouldn’t even know how to drive one. If you don’t know what a manual transmission is, it’s the kind of car where you drive with two feet – one for the clutch and one for the gas – using a gearstick to shift gears yourself. Despite their decline, some of the best stick shift cars are still worth considering for a custom driving experience.
Which vehicles are top contenders? We’ve researched and compiled a list of the best stick shift cars from enthusiasts across eight websites, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Is there a favorite of yours that we overlooked? Let us know.
StudyFinds is a research-driven platform that analyzes and synthesizes expert recommendations from trusted sources. Rather than writing reviews ourselves, we meticulously compile consensus findings from leading industry experts and established publications to save consumers valuable research time. Each article represents hours of analysis across multiple authoritative sources to identify the most consistently recommended choices.
Top Stick Shift Cars on the Market Today
1. Acura Integra
Looking for an affordable way to enjoy a manual gearbox without sacrificing luxury? Robb Report recommends the 2025 Acura Integra. It may lack the iconic ’90s styling, but it’s still a driver’s dream with its precise six-speed manual. The Type S model amps up the Civic Type R’s performance with a 315-horsepower engine and a more refined, aggressive design.
If you want a manual transmission, U.S. News says you need to upgrade to the A-Spec with Technology Package which includes an upgraded audio system, wireless device charging, and synthetic suede upholstery – nice extras to make driving more fun.
This is the only model in its class offering a manual transmission, according to TrueCar. With 200 horsepower, a turbocharged engine, and a well-tuned suspension, it delivers a quick and athletic ride. Additionally, its spacious interior and hatchback design give it an edge over pricier German rivals like the Audi A3.
2. Mazda MX-5 Miata
The 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a dream ride for manual transmission lovers, thanks to its iconic open-top design and zippy 181-hp engine. Auto Easy credits the car’s light build and sharp handling for making every drive a blast. This classic roadster blends charm with modern performance, delivering pure driving joy.
No list of new manual cars is complete without the Miata – the ultimate driver’s car. Road & Track writes its six-speed manual system is a joy to use, offering way more engagement than the automatic. Simply put, the Miata is the gold standard for driving fun.
According to SFGate, the beloved Miata has been a hit since 1989 because it’s fun to drive. With 181 horsepower and rear-wheel drive, this compact convertible offers a classic, top-down driving experience that’s hard to beat.
3. Honda Civic Type R
SFGate believes the high-performance Type R is the ultimate pick for stick shift devotees. With a 315-horsepower four-cylinder engine, high-performance brakes, and grippy tires, Honda knows a manual transmission transforms the drive, so much so that they don’t even offer an automatic option.
The Honda Civic ranks among the top compact cars, thanks to its spacious interior and abundant standard features, according to U.S. News. All models include an intuitive touchscreen, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. The hatchback version offers a manual transmission, with the Sport trim featuring a 158-horsepower engine and the Sport Touring boasting a 180-horsepower turbo-four.
4. Cadillac CT5V Blackwing
The CT5-V Blackwing is GM’s swan song to its legendary small-block V-8s, and it doesn’t disappoint. With a 668-horsepower supercharged 6.2-liter V-8, rear-wheel drive, and a six-speed manual, it’s a masterclass in performance. As Road & Track puts it, this is one of the best-driving sedans on the planet.
Top Speed agrees this car is ready for the track the minute it rolls off the assembly line. Standard features include adaptive high-performance suspension, Brembo brakes all around, electronic limited-slip rear differential, and custom launch control. What more could you want?
The CT4-V model is also highly recommended. In Cadillac’s lineup, “Blackwing” signifies peak performance, and the CT4-V Blackwing is no exception, boasting a 472-hp twin-turbo V6, says U.S. News. Power hits the rear wheels via a six-speed manual, complemented by a performance suspension and Brembo brakes. Inside, enjoy heated sport seats, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.
5. Subaru WRX
The 2024 Subaru WRX stands out with its 271-horsepower turbocharged engine and standard all-wheel drive. TrueCar likes its slick-shifting six-speed manual, which enhances driver engagement and makes this sport compact a thrill on twisty roads. While it may not be as powerful as some rivals, the WRX offers impressive performance value and remains a favorite among driving purists.
Auto Easy picks the 2024 Subaru WRX Premium as a top pick for manual transmission enthusiasts, thanks to its turbocharged engine, agile chassis, and six-speed manual transmission. With performance upgrades like stiffer springs and Recaro seats, this sport-compact sedan delivers a thrilling and engaging driving experience, making it a standout choice.
Subaru may be synonymous with all-wheel-drive SUVs, but the BRZ is a refreshing departure from the norm, according to SFGate. This low-slung, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe is all about pure driving pleasure. Co-developed with Toyota and sharing its DNA with the Toyota GR86 (#7 on our list), the BRZ embodies the classic sports car trifecta: lightweight design, rear-wheel drive, and an accessible price tag.
6. Lotus Emira
If you want to stand out, Road & Track guarantees the Lotus Emira is your ride. Opt for the Toyota-sourced 3.5-liter supercharged V-6 with a six-speed manual, and you’re in for a thrilling time on any twisty road. Just be ready to splurge a bit!
According to True Car, the 2024 Lotus Emira is a purist’s dream, offering stick-shift thrills with a roaring 3.5L V6 in a lightweight, no-frills package. It’s pricey and light on tech, but perfect for those who live for the pure joy of driving. With 16 MPG city and 24 highways, this final Lotus combustion engine is about the experience.
TopSpeed‘s Garret Donahue had the chance to drive the Emira, and he describes it as “focused all the time,” highlighting just how sharp and responsive this sports car is. Enjoy it now because the British automaker plans to roll out a turbocharged four-cylinder engine as the standard powertrain, but it won’t have a manual transmission.
7. Toyota GR86
The 2024 Toyota GR86 Premium makes the list for its unbeatable combo of fun, affordability, and manual transmission magic. With a zippy 228-hp engine, sharp handling, and a sleek design, Auto Easy promises it’s a thrill to drive. Plus, the new Trueno Edition with performance upgrades makes it even more exciting.
U.S. News says the Toyota GR86, twin to the BRZ, stands out with its sleek design and straightforward controls. While the rear seat is tight, it doubles as extra storage, keeping the cabin practical. Powered by a Subaru-sourced 288-hp flat-four engine and a six-speed manual, the GR86 now offers the Trueno Edition trim and an optional Performance Package with Brembo brakes and Sachs dampers for 2024.
TrueCar says the 2024 Toyota GR86 is a blast to drive and a great performance deal, especially with the manual transmission. It seats four and has three trims, and the popular Premium Manual starts at $33,035 with a 2.4L engine and RWD. Expect around 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway.
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.
