Looking for a stick shift? Manual transmissions
can be hard to come by, but that doesn't mean they’re an endangered species. In a world transitioning to a zero-emissions future, it’s still possible to snag some new models that offer an engaging drive. Jerry
, the car ownership super app, checks out the best 2021 cars with manual transmission.2021 cars with manual transmission: Hatchbacks and muscle cars
The VW Golf and Jetta both share the same running gear, chassis, and come with a standard six-speed manual transmission. The base models offer a 1.4-liter engine with 147 hp. According to Wheels.ca
, if you’re craving more excitement, “the GTI and GLI variants of the Golf and Jetta respectively are available with 228-horsepower and still offer the 6-speed manual as standard.” The Honda Civic Hatchback goes for $32,531. The hatchback also offers a six-speed manual transmission. Go with the 306 hp Type-R and you’ll enjoy hugging those corners on windy canyon roads. The hot hatch balances athleticism and comfort, with a high-quality spacious cabin.
If you’re looking for 2021 cars with manual transmission for under $30,000, you can get your hands on a Chevy Camaro with zero upcharges for a manual transmission. The Camaro sports a 2.0-liter engine with 275 hp with a superior TREMEC 6-speed gearbox.
According to Wheels.ca, “As you go up the Camaro hierarchy, from the V8 SS to the supercharged ZL1, the TREMEC transmission is upgraded from a modest TR-31 unit to the robust TR-6060 — a descendant of the tried and true TR-56.”
The Ford Mustang starts at $30,745 and is an incredible value for a rear-wheel drive and 310 hp. The Mustang offers a 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost variant and a standard six-speed manual. The MT-82 six-speed is also a standard option for the 5.0-liter 460-hp GT models.
MORE: Manual Transmission Trucks You Can Still Buy
Ready for adventure
Starting at $37,665, the iconic Jeep Wrangler is available in various trim levels featuring different colors, wheels, badges, engines, differentials, engines, and transmissions. There are actually at least 16 trim levels to choose from for the 2021 4x4 SUV.
“The important bit is that a good number of trim levels — particularly those with beefed-up suspension, differentials and low range, 2-speed transfer cases, are available with a 6-speed manual,” notes Wheels.ca.
The Toyota Tacoma 4x4 6M is a bit more expensive, with a sticker price of $41,990. While it can be tricky to navigate the Tacoma’s options list, just make sure you select a six-speed manual transmission with “6M” and not “6A.”
According to Wheels.ca, “You still get Toyota’s familiar, but punchy 3.5-liter DOHC V6 with VVT-i, producing 278 hp, 264 lb-ft torque, as well as part-time selectable 4wd with a 2-speed transfer case.”
At $50,360, the Jeep Gladiator is a little bit more of an investment. Known more for its towing and off-road capabilities than the Wrangler, the Gladiator comes with a standard six-speed manual transmission. It also sports a 3.5-liter V6 engine and cranks out 285 hp.
Feeling sporty?
The 2021 Mazda MX-5 is priced at $35,172 and is the only manual Japanese car you can buy with rear-wheel drive. So unless you want to wait for the Nissan Z, this 181 hp Skyactiv four-cylinder engine makes for a run and lightweight ride. With a six-speed manual transmission, it’s hard to go wrong with this fuel-efficient sports car.
The redesigned BMW M3 houses a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six routed through a six-speed manual transmission. With 473 hp, the M3 offers swift acceleration, deft handling, and a spacious cabin and trunk. While its base engine gets some awesome fuel economy, the cabin may be underwhelming compared to the competition.
Ending our list of 2021 cars with manual transmission is the Porsche 911. If you’ve got the budget, why not snag one starting at $115,000? As an alternative to the standard eight-speed PDK transmission, the Carrera S and 4S offer a seven-speed manual transmission for the European market—perfect for drivers with sporty ambitions and who like to change the gears themselves.