The Decline of Manual Transmissions in Modern Vehicles
It’s a bittersweet reality that manual transmissions are becoming increasingly scarce, even though they aren’t disappearing entirely. As driving preferences evolve and electric vehicles gain popularity, the availability of new cars featuring traditional three-pedal setups is dwindling. In the United States, numerous car manufacturers have ceased offering manual options altogether. Notable brands such as Mercedes, Audi, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Lexus, Jaguar, Maserati, and Aston Martin no longer produce stick-shift vehicles. However, a select few brands, including Porsche, BMW, and Cadillac, continue to champion this beloved driving style.
In the world of luxury automobiles, the focus on manual transmissions often shifts away from opulence and leans into performance and driving experience. This is particularly appealing to enthusiasts who relish the art of shifting gears themselves in contemporary automobiles.
Imagining iconic brands like Porsche or BMW eliminating manual transmissions entirely feels far-fetched. Nevertheless, like many traditional technologies in the automotive industry, this could eventually become a reality. This shift is driven not only by technological advancements but also by a decrease in consumer demand for stick shifts. For those who cherish the manual driving experience, it’s crucial to take advantage of the options currently available while they still exist.
Table of Contents
- BMW M2
- Acura Integra
- BMW M3 and M4
- BMW Z4
- Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
- Nissan Z
- Porsche 718
- Porsche 911
- Toyota GR Supra
BMW M2
BMW stands out as one of the few manufacturers still committed to offering manual transmissions. Among their lineup, the M2 is a standout choice. This compact powerhouse features a robust 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine. The latest design iteration presents a slightly less aggressive aesthetic compared to the larger M3 and M4 models, yet its driving dynamics remain exceptional.
The M2’s shifter embodies the classic BMW feel—solid and well-balanced—though it might lack the sharpness found in manuals from brands like Honda or Porsche. It is refreshing that BMW’s M series continues to provide drivers the option for manual gear shifting, and we hope this trend persists in the future.
Since its introduction in 2016, the M2 has impressed with a top powertrain option—a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine capable of producing 473 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. It achieves an exhilarating zero to 60 mph sprint in just 4.1 seconds, with a top speed of 177 mph. Starting at $64,900, it beautifully combines performance with luxury.
Acura Integra
The new Acura Integra may not retain the classic two-door coupe silhouette beloved by fans of the 1990s model, but it is still a remarkable driving machine—particularly the nimble Type S variant. The base model features a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a precise six-speed manual transmission, a hallmark of Honda’s engineering excellence.
The Type S variant amplifies the excitement, borrowing many characteristics from the Civic Type R. It boasts a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, sophisticated suspension, and an incredibly responsive manual transmission, wrapped in a more refined and comfortable design. Exclusive features in this trim include heated seats, sportier styling with wider fenders, and high-quality interior materials, all while maintaining the option for a manual transmission at a competitive price.
Since its revival in 2023, the Integra’s Type S variant showcases a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers an impressive 320 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This model accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 135 mph, all starting from an appealing price of $34,195.
BMW M3 and M4
Both the BMW M3 and M4 of the G8x generation exude a sense of intensity, from their aggressive front styling to the powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, complemented by the option for a manual transmission. While the Competition and xDrive versions do not offer a manual option, the base models with 473 horsepower deliver thrilling performance.
These vehicles blend raw performance with everyday comfort, making them practical for daily driving. With careful attention to ergonomics, the M3 and M4 ensure that drivers can enjoy spirited drives without sacrificing comfort.
In production since 1986, with the M4 variant debuting in 2014, this dynamic duo features a top powertrain option—a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine generating 473 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. This setup allows for a blistering zero to 60 mph time of just 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. The M3 starts at $77,175, while the M4 begins at $80,275, reflecting their exceptional performance capabilities.
BMW Z4
If you’re in the market for a sporty convertible that offers a manual shifting option and a luxurious interior, the BMW Z4 is an excellent pick. This latest iteration stands out in terms of technology and driving enjoyment, making older models feel outdated.
While a full M version of the Z4 is not available, the six-cylinder M40i model, which includes a manual option, produces a robust 382 horsepower and delivers exhilarating performance. Although the Z4 may not handle as sharply as a Porsche 718, it still provides a thrilling driving experience, especially with the added fun of a manual transmission.
In production since 1989, the Z4 M40i Handschalter features a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine, producing 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph, starting at $71,125, it offers a delightful blend of performance and heritage.
Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing
The CT4-V Blackwing may not garner as much attention as its larger V8 counterpart, yet it remains a formidable and swift sports sedan worthy of admiration. Its 3.6-liter turbocharged V6 engine delivers a punchy 472 horsepower and 445 lb-ft of torque, perfectly matched to a six-speed manual transmission.
Cadillac has integrated features like automatic rev-matching and the ability to shift gears without lifting off the accelerator, enhancing the driving experience, especially during spirited driving sessions.
Since its launch in 2021, the CT4-V Blackwing boasts a top powertrain option with a 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, enabling a swift 0 to 60 mph time of just 3.9 seconds and an impressive top speed of 189 mph. With a starting price of $62,195, it offers exceptional performance in a modern sports sedan package.
Nissan Z
The new Nissan Z, which pays homage to its storied predecessors, features a striking design that evokes nostalgia while incorporating contemporary performance. This sports car surprisingly offers a manual transmission option, a rarity in its segment, especially when compared to its sibling, the R35-generation GT-R, which utilizes a dual-clutch transmission.
Both the Sport and Performance models come with a stick shift option, although it’s unfortunate that the high-performance Nismo variant does not. Nonetheless, the available models provide an engaging driving experience for those who enjoy manual gear shifting.
Equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, the Nissan Z can sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph. In production since 1969, this iconic model starts at a competitive price of $42,970, honoring its legacy while delivering robust performance.
Porsche 718
Porsche’s reputation for crafting some of the finest manual transmissions is well-deserved. The latest iterations of the 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman continue this tradition, featuring cable-actuated shifters that feel incredibly smooth and satisfying. The 718 lineup uses a six-speed manual transmission, which differs from the seven-speed found in the 911, and offers a unique driving experience.
While the gear ratios may be longer than some enthusiasts prefer, the shifter’s feel and the easy-to-manage clutch enhance the driving pleasure. The 4.0-liter flat-six engine is an excellent match for this setup, although the four-cylinder models still deliver commendable performance.
Since its introduction in 1996, the 718 GTS 4.0 features a top powertrain option with a 4.0-liter six-cylinder engine, producing 394 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque. This model accelerates from zero to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 179 mph. With a starting price of $74,795, it offers a compelling combination of performance and sleek design.
Porsche 911
The Porsche 911 is synonymous with exceptional sports cars that embody precision engineering and thoughtful design. With various engine options available, the Carrera T trim features a base turbocharged flat-six engine delivering just under 400 horsepower, while the high-performance GT3 and GT3 RS models pack a thrilling 500-horsepower engine.
For the 2025 model year, the Carrera T is the only variant that includes a manual transmission. This model promises a thrilling driving experience with its six-speed manual, channeling 388 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels. It achieves a zero to 60 mph time of 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 183 mph, showcasing impressive performance even among the “lower” trims of this iconic vehicle.
Since its debut in 1964, the 911 Carrera T features a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine, delivering 388 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. Starting at $134,000, the 911 continues to uphold Porsche’s legacy of high-performance vehicles, offering exceptional driving experiences.
Toyota GR Supra
The Toyota GR Supra is a testament to the joy of driving, designed for enthusiasts who crave an engaging experience behind the wheel. While the model initially launched in 2019 without a manual option, it has since embraced this beloved feature in recent years.
Today, all versions of this stylish two-door coupe come equipped with a manual transmission, including the powerful variant boasting a BMW-sourced 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that generates 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. This setup allows the Supra to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in under four seconds, reaching a top speed of 155 mph.
Interestingly, the manual transmission option has gained popularity among buyers; in its first year of availability, 1,216 customers—approximately 47 percent—opted for the manual, a significant feat considering that less than two percent of cars sold in the U.S. feature manual transmissions today.
Since its revival in 2019, the GR Supra’s top powertrain option includes a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine, delivering 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds, with a starting price of $56,250, making it a thrilling option for driving enthusiasts.