Plenty of modern cars have traded in the third pedal for paddle shifters, but a few brands still know how to keep things interesting. These cars aren’t just throwbacks—they’re proof that the manual transmission still has a place in a world of automatic everything. Here are eight new cars from 2025 (and a few holdovers) that continue to keep the stick-shift spirit alive.
2025 Toyota GR86
The 2025 GR86 sticks to its formula with a 2.4L flat-four making 228 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, mated to a standard six-speed manual. It weighs just under 2,900 pounds and handles like a proper rear-wheel-drive coupe.
Pricing starts around $30,000, and the manual option costs no extra. The interior isn’t flashy, but it’s functional and focused. Toyota even revised the software for smoother rev-matching, making it easier to heel-toe your way through a backroad.
2025 Honda Civic Si
Honda’s Civic Si remains manual-only for 2025, sticking with a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder rated at 200 hp and 192 lb-ft. The slick-shifting six-speed and standard limited-slip differential make it a budget driver’s car.
At around $29,000, it’s one of the few sedans left with a manual option. The Si includes sport seats, red trim accents, and wireless smartphone integration, balancing comfort and performance without losing its analog roots.
2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Miata hasn’t given up on the stick shift—and it’s better for it. The 2025 model gets a slight refresh but keeps the 181-hp 2.0L inline-four and six-speed manual combo that’s made it a legend.
Weighing just 2,341 pounds in soft-top form, it delivers clean, communicative handling. The interior is simple and tight, but the short throw and perfect clutch take center stage. It’s still the benchmark for manual-driving joy under $30K.
2025 Ford Mustang GT
Ford’s seventh-gen Mustang GT keeps the six-speed manual alive, paired with a 5.0L Coyote V8 producing 480 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. A no-cost option, the stick shift remains standard on GT trims.
The cockpit offers a mix of analog appeal and digital function, but the shifter is mechanical and satisfying. With line lock, launch control, and track-tuned suspension available, the GT proves a muscle car can still be rowed by hand.
2025 Subaru BRZ
Like its Toyota cousin, the 2025 BRZ keeps the manual alive with the same 2.4L flat-four and six-speed transmission. With 228 hp and a rear-drive chassis, it’s still a purist’s coupe priced around $31,000.
The BRZ’s low center of gravity and precise steering make it ideal for backroad runs or autocross weekends. Subaru didn’t water it down—it still comes with analog gauges, tactile controls, and a lightweight feel that rewards good driving.
2025 Acura Integra Type S
The Integra Type S is Acura’s way of saying they still care about real drivers. It packs a 2.0L turbo four (320 hp, 310 lb-ft) paired with a six-speed manual and limited-slip diff, borrowed straight from the Civic Type R.
The interior is upscale, with bolstered seats and a digital dash, but the gearbox is front and center. At around $52,000, it’s not cheap—but it’s one of the best new front-drivers with a clutch pedal in 2025.
2025 BMW M2
BMW’s M2 continues to offer a six-speed manual, despite the rest of the lineup going dual-clutch. It’s powered by a 3.0L twin-turbo inline-six making 453 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, with rear-wheel drive only.
It’s heavier than older M cars, but it still delivers a visceral experience. The cockpit offers M-specific graphics and physical buttons, while the manual lets you connect with the powertrain in a way no automatic ever could.
2025 Porsche 718 Cayman GTS
Porsche continues to offer a six-speed manual in the 718 Cayman GTS, which features a 4.0L naturally aspirated flat-six with 394 hp and 309 lb-ft of torque. It’s one of the last sports cars in its class with a manual at all.
The gearbox feels precise and the clutch is perfectly weighted. Inside, the GTS trim balances track-ready intent with luxury. At over $90,000, it’s a premium way to keep shifting alive—but worth every gear change.
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