The manual transmission used to be known as the “standard” transmission. Times have changed; the stick shift is not extinct yet, but every year it becomes more endangered. The manual transmission, sadly, serves little purpose anymore. Our electric cars of the future won’t use them. Even today, improved automatics are outperforming manuals on both the race track and on the EPA fuel economy test cycle. Take rates for sticks are too low to justify the R&D costs to offer them, even for former manual stalwarts like BMW and Subaru.
What the stick shift does still offer is a more engaging driving experience. For certain vehicles, it’s that driving experience that remains paramount. Those cars’ robust and loyal fan bases scoff at “flappy paddles,” instead demanding ungoverned three-pedal amusement. And manufacturers are catering to them for now. There are some new options on the market like the Acura Integra and the Toyota GR Corolla. The Subaru WRX got a revamp as well. Cutting down this list was even harder than it was in years past.
Here are the best cars you can buy right now with a manual transmission.
2024 Acura Integra Type S
Will Sabel Courtney- Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Horsepower: 320
- Torque: 310 lb-ft
- Base Price: $50,800
Acura launched the all-new Integra Type S for 2024. It’s based on the Honda Civic Type R, but offers better looks, more premium creature comforts and more top-end power without costing dramatically more than the Type R.
