All articles tagged with #manual transmission
A Cars.com list highlights five new manual-transmission cars to buy in 2026—VW Jetta GLI, Subaru WRX, Honda Civic Si, Toyota GR86, and Mazda MX-5 Miata—priced roughly from $31k to $35k, offering engaging performance and a hands-on driving experience as manuals become rarer.
Nissan updates the 2027 Z lineup with styling tweaks and performance refinements, notably adding a 6-speed manual gearbox to the Nissan Z Nismo, along with a revised throttle/ignition map, upgraded brakes that drop unsprung weight, and retuned suspension. All Z models gain a new front fascia, a larger interior option (including a black-and-tan interior), a 15-watt wireless charger with a magnetic connector, and a redesigned gas tank for better fuel delivery at high speeds. Prices are not yet announced, but are not expected to change drastically from current MSRPs, and the 2027 Z hits dealers this summer.
In a California road-test comparison, the 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack with AWD and a turbo inline-six delivers strong midrange power and generous cabin space, while the lighter Ford Mustang GT—with a standard manual and a poised chassis—offers sharper handling and a more engaging driving experience; the Mustang ultimately wins the shootout, reaffirming its blend of sportiness and everyday usability.
Five manual-equipped cars beat their automatic counterparts in acceleration: Mazda MX-5 Miata ND (6.4s manual vs 7.1s auto), GR86/BRZ (about 5.4s vs 6.1s), Honda/Acura NSX (manual ~5.6s vs auto ~6.5s), BMW M3 E46 (manual ~4.5s vs SMG ~4.8s), and Porsche 911 Carrera 996 (manual ~4.9s vs Tiptronic ~5.6s). The piece argues that clutch control and shorter gearing in manuals can yield faster launches and a more engaging drive, despite modern automatics’ general speed advantage.
Jalopnik surveys the dwindling list of new cars still offered with manual transmissions in 2026, highlighting brands like Toyota, Ford, BMW, Honda/Acura, Nissan, Subaru, Porsche, Volkswagen, Mazda, Jeep, Lotus, Hyundai, and Cadillac, with models such as the GR lineup, Civic Si/Type R, Z, MX-5 Miata, WRX/BRZ, Mustang GT/Dark Horse and Bronco, 911 GT3, Jetta GLI, Emira, and more—proof that a dedicated manual-enthusiast market persists even as automatics dominate.
Singer extends its backdating program to the 911 Carrera Cabriolet, transforming a 964-generation car into a Turbo Look‑style drop-top with discreet pop-up fog lights, carbon‑fiber bodywork, and an optional rear wing. It packs a 4.0-liter flat‑six producing 420 hp paired to a six‑speed manual, four‑way electronically adjustable dampers with a nose‑lift system, carbon‑ceramic brakes, and 18-inch center‑lock wheels, plus refined interior craftsmanship and configurable materials. Production is limited to 75 Cabriolets (vs. 100 coupes), while Singer continues turbocharged projects like a 934/5‑inspired line.
A Chicago reader wants a manual, four-seat car under $40k that can handle winter and family duties. Experts suggest several strong options, including a 2003 BMW M3 (E46) under budget, a 2005 Porsche 911 S Cabriolet, a 2013 BMW M3 E93 convertible, and a 2017 BMW M2, underscoring that stick-shift cars are fading and the best choice depends on whether the priority is everyday reliability, a convertible experience, or maximum driving engagement.
The article discusses the possibility of a manual transmission swap for the C8 Corvette, highlighting Tremec's new six-speed manual transaxle designed for easier installation and the challenges involved in such a conversion, including electronic and interior modifications. Despite GM's current stance against offering a manual, aftermarket solutions may soon make manual swaps feasible, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a more traditional driving experience.
A 1998 Volvo V70 with expressive, artist-created paintwork and a manual transmission is listed for $2,999, blending artistic expression with practical features, making it a unique and potentially appealing collector's or art enthusiast's vehicle.
Garagisti & Co. has launched the GP1, a lightweight, non-electric V12 supercar built with 2025 technology and 1990s principles, featuring a 6.6-liter V12 engine with 790 horsepower, manual transmission, and a weight of only 1,000 kg. Limited to 25 units, it costs around $4 million, reflecting a niche market trend of returning to simple, lightweight, manual supercars.
Garagisti & Co introduces the GP1, a limited-edition supercar featuring a naturally aspirated 6.6-liter V12 engine, manual gearbox, and minimalist design, emphasizing mechanical purity and driving engagement, with only 25 units available at around $3.3 million.
A 1999 Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4 with only 27,300 miles is listed on Cars & Bids, featuring twin-turbo V6, all-wheel drive, four-wheel steering, active aero, and a manual transmission, appealing to enthusiasts who enjoy complex, high-performance '90s sports cars. Bidding has already exceeded $40,000, making it a desirable and collectible vehicle for fans of vintage Japanese sports cars.
The 2025 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is an enhanced performance sedan that maintains its reputation as a driver-centric vehicle with minimal updates, including a new front end, a 33-inch screen, and an advanced Performance Data Recorder. The $18,000 Precision Package adds features like carbon-ceramic brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R tires, enhancing track performance without sacrificing road comfort. The CT5-V Blackwing, available with a manual transmission, remains a top choice for driving enthusiasts, offering a blend of practicality and race car-like performance.
The 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera T offers a more affordable and engaging alternative to the GT3, featuring a manual transmission and a focus on driving pleasure. With a 388 hp twin-turbo flat-six engine, the 911 T is lighter and more agile, boasting improved handling and braking. Despite a price increase to $135,595 for the coupe, it remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a three-pedal sports car experience, offering a balance of performance and driving feedback.
Porsche will not offer a manual transmission for any 2025 model-year 911, marking a first in the car's 60-year history. The new GTS model will be hybrid and PDK-only, while other trims like the Carrera S, T, and 4S, which previously had manual options, are not yet announced. Porsche hints that manual options may return in the future.