2020 cars with a manual transmission
The Enduring Appeal of the Stick Shift: 2020 Cars with a Manual Transmission
In a world increasingly dominated by the convenience of automatic transmissions, the manual gearbox stubbornly persists, its appeal resonating with a dedicated group of drivers. The act of shifting gears, the physical connection to the car’s powertrain, and the sense of control it affords are experiences that many find deeply satisfying – a visceral connection to the driving experience that automatics simply can’t replicate. For purists and enthusiasts, driving a manual car isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about actively participating in the act of driving, about feeling the car’s engine respond to your commands, and about savoring the nuanced dance between clutch, shifter, and accelerator.
While the market for manual transmissions has shrunk considerably in recent years, there’s still a healthy demand for cars that offer this engaging driving experience. Thankfully, several car manufacturers continue to offer manual options in their lineups, catering to those who appreciate the art of the stick shift.
## Reasons Why Manual Transmissions Still Matter
The allure of the manual transmission goes beyond mere nostalgia. It’s about the unique driving experience it offers, a feeling that can’t be replicated by even the most sophisticated automatic transmissions. Here’s why the manual transmission continues to be a cherished option for many drivers:
**1. Enhanced Driver Engagement:** Manual transmissions require active driver involvement, demanding a level of focus and skill that an automatic transmission simply doesn’t. This heightened engagement contributes to a more fulfilling and engaging driving experience.
**2. Improved Fuel Efficiency:** Manual transmissions, especially in smaller cars, can offer better fuel economy than their automatic counterparts. This is because the driver has direct control over engine speed and can optimize gear selection for fuel efficiency.
**3. Greater Control:** Manual transmissions give drivers absolute control over the car’s power delivery. This is especially beneficial in situations where precise control is needed, such as driving on winding roads or in challenging weather conditions.
**4. More Engaging Performance:** For driving enthusiasts, the manual transmission offers a more direct connection to the engine and powertrain, allowing for a more engaging and rewarding driving experience. The ability to rev-match downshifts and feel the engine’s response to your input creates a visceral connection to the car that’s hard to match.
**5. Lower Cost:** Manual transmissions are generally less expensive to manufacture than automatics, which can result in lower overall vehicle prices.
## 2020 Cars With Manual Transmissions
Despite the increasing dominance of automatic transmissions, a number of car manufacturers continue to offer manual transmission options in their lineups, catering to those who appreciate the art of the stick shift.
1. Mazda
Mazda has long been known for its commitment to driver-focused cars that offer a rewarding driving experience, and that includes offering manual transmissions in several of its models.
**Mazda3:** The Mazda3, a compact hatchback and sedan, is a popular choice for those who value both style and performance. Both the Hatchback and Sedan models offer a 6-speed manual transmission paired with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering a lively driving experience that is both engaging and efficient.
**Mazda6:** The Mazda6, a mid-size sedan, offers a more refined and luxurious driving experience. While the top-of-the-line Signature trim level is only available with an automatic transmission, the Sport and Touring trims can be had with a 6-speed manual transmission, paired with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine.
2. Honda
While Honda is known for its reliable automatic transmissions, they do offer a few models with manual options, catering to those who crave a more involving driving experience.
**Civic Si:** The Civic Si is a performance-oriented model that is designed to deliver both speed and handling. It comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission paired with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 205 horsepower. The smooth-shifting gearbox and the engine’s eager acceleration make for an exciting driving experience.
**Civic Type R:** For those who want the ultimate performance from a Civic, the Type R is the model to consider. This hot hatch boasts a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 306 horsepower, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. The Type R is a true performance machine, offering a thrilling driving experience that is sure to excite even the most seasoned enthusiast.
3. Subaru
Subaru is known for its rugged all-wheel-drive vehicles, and several of them are available with manual transmissions, catering to those who seek both capability and driving engagement.
**WRX:** The WRX is Subaru’s flagship performance model, known for its rally-bred heritage and impressive performance. It comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission paired with a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine, generating 271 horsepower. The WRX offers a potent blend of performance and practicality, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking a car that can handle both the daily commute and a spirited drive on a winding road.
**BRZ:** The BRZ is a sports car developed jointly by Subaru and Toyota. This lightweight coupe is designed for pure driving enjoyment, offering a nimble and engaging driving experience. The BRZ comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission paired with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter flat-four engine, generating 205 horsepower. The BRZ’s rear-wheel-drive platform and precise handling make it a joy to drive, whether on a backroad or at the track.
4. Toyota
Toyota, while primarily known for its automatic transmissions, does offer a few models with manual options for those who enjoy the manual experience.
**86:** This sports coupe, a twin under the skin to the Subaru BRZ, is known for its engaging handling and responsive performance. It comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission paired with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter flat-four engine, producing 205 horsepower. The 86 offers a fun and rewarding driving experience that is perfect for enthusiasts looking for a lightweight and nimble sports car.
**GR Supra:** The GR Supra is Toyota’s newest sports car, and it’s a head-turner. It comes standard with a 8-speed automatic transmission, but the model offered with a 6-speed manual transmission is the GR Supra 3.0. The 3.0-liter inline-six engine produces 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque, making it a true performance machine. The manual transmission, with its precision and responsiveness, adds to the GR Supra’s already thrilling driving experience.
5. Ford
Ford, while increasingly focusing on automatic transmissions in its mainstream models, still offers a few manual-equipped vehicles for those who appreciate the traditional driving experience.
**Fiesta ST:** The Fiesta ST is a hot hatch that offers a thrilling driving experience. It comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission paired with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 197 horsepower. The Fiesta ST is a fun and engaging car to drive, offering a perfect blend of performance and practicality.
**Focus ST:** The Focus ST is Ford’s larger hot hatch, offering a blend of practicality and performance. It comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission paired with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 252 horsepower. The Focus ST is a capable and engaging car to drive, offering a sporty driving experience that is both fun and rewarding.
**Mustang:** The Mustang, an American icon, is a muscle car that can be had with a manual transmission. The base V6 and the EcoBoost four-cylinder engines can be paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, while the 5.0-liter V8 engine is offered with a 6-speed manual transmission or a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Mustang, with its iconic styling and thrilling performance, is a true American classic.
6. Chevrolet
Chevrolet, a brand known for its muscle cars and performance vehicles, continues to offer manual transmissions in a few of its models.
**Camaro:** The Camaro, a muscle car with a long and storied history, comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission paired with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generating 275 horsepower. The Camaro also offers a 6-speed manual transmission paired with the 3.6-liter V6 engine, generating 335 horsepower, and a 6-speed manual transmission paired with the 6.2-liter V8 engine, generating 455 horsepower. The Camaro, with its powerful engines and sporty handling, offers a thrilling driving experience for enthusiasts.
**Corvette:** The Corvette, a true American sports car, comes standard with a 7-speed manual transmission paired with a 6.2-liter V8 engine, generating 495 horsepower. The Corvette’s manual transmission is known for its smooth and precise shifting, adding to the car’s already exhilarating driving experience.
7. Jeep
Jeep, a brand known for its iconic off-road vehicles, offers a few models with manual transmissions, appealing to those who value both capability and involvement in the driving process.
**Wrangler:** The Wrangler, a true off-road icon, is available with a 6-speed manual transmission paired with a 3.6-liter V6 engine, generating 2
