## 2020 Cars with Manual Transmissions: A Comprehensive Guide
In an era dominated by automatic transmissions, manual transmissions have become increasingly rare, relegated to the realm of enthusiast vehicles and budget-friendly offerings. However, for those who still crave the visceral experience of shifting gears and controlling the car’s performance with their own hands, there are still a handful of 2020 cars available with manual transmissions.
### Sports Cars and Performance Vehicles
For performance enthusiasts, manual transmissions offer an unparalleled level of control and engagement. Here are some of the 2020 sports cars and performance vehicles that still feature manual transmission options:
– BMW M2 Competition: The compact BMW M2 Competition is renowned for its raw power and handling capabilities. It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, which allows drivers to fully exploit the car’s 405 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque.
– Chevrolet Corvette Stingray: The iconic Chevrolet Corvette Stingray has always been synonymous with performance, and the 2020 model is no exception. While the base Stingray comes with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, the high-performance Z51 and Z06 variants offer a seven-speed manual transmission.
– Ford Mustang Shelby GT350: Ford’s Mustang Shelby GT350 is a track-focused beast that demands driver involvement. It comes equipped with a six-speed Tremec manual transmission that is perfectly matched to the car’s naturally aspirated V8 engine, producing 526 horsepower and 429 lb-ft of torque.
– Mazda MX-5 Miata: The Mazda MX-5 Miata is the epitome of a driver’s car, offering a pure and exhilarating driving experience. It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission that is precise and effortless to operate, enhancing the car’s overall agility and responsiveness.
– Toyota GR Supra: The Toyota GR Supra is a reborn performance icon that rekindles the spirit of the legendary Supra. It is available with a six-speed manual transmission on the base 3.0 and 3.0 Premium trims, providing a direct connection between driver and car.
### Budget-Friendly Manual Transmissions
While manual transmissions are often associated with sports cars, there are also a few budget-friendly options available for those who want to enjoy the benefits of a manual transmission without breaking the bank:
– Kia Forte GT: The Kia Forte GT is a compact sedan that offers surprising performance for its price. It is available with a six-speed manual transmission on the GT trim, which is paired with a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine producing 201 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque.
– Hyundai Veloster N: The Hyundai Veloster N is a hot hatch that combines practicality with performance. It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission that is precise and engaging, allowing drivers to make the most of the car’s 250 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
– Mazda3: The Mazda3 is a compact car that offers a balance of comfort, style, and performance. It is available with a six-speed manual transmission on the base and Premium trims, which are powered by a 2.5-liter engine producing 186 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque.
– Subaru Impreza: The Subaru Impreza is a compact car that is known for its all-wheel drive capability and ruggedness. It offers a five-speed manual transmission on the base, Premium, and Limited trims, which are powered by a 2.0-liter engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque.
– Toyota Corolla Hatchback: The Toyota Corolla Hatchback is a practical and fuel-efficient car that also offers a manual transmission option. The SE and XSE trims can be had with a six-speed manual transmission, which is paired with a 2.0-liter engine producing 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque.
### Advantages of Manual Transmissions
For those who embrace the challenge and reward of driving a manual transmission, there are several advantages:
– Greater Control: Manual transmissions provide a higher level of control over the vehicle’s performance, allowing drivers to choose the optimal gear for acceleration, braking, and cornering.
– Enhanced Engagement: The act of shifting gears engages the driver more directly in the driving experience, creating a more visceral and connected feeling with the car.
– Improved Fuel Efficiency: In certain driving conditions, manual transmissions can improve fuel efficiency compared to automatic transmissions, as drivers can select the most efficient gear for the given situation.
– Lower Maintenance Costs: Manual transmissions are generally more affordable to maintain than automatic transmissions, as they have fewer complex components and require less frequent servicing.
### Disadvantages of Manual Transmissions
While manual transmissions offer many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider:
– Learning Curve: Driving a manual transmission requires some practice to become proficient, especially for those who are new to it.
– Physical Effort: Operating a manual transmission requires more physical effort than an automatic transmission, which can be tiring in heavy traffic or on long drives.
– Limited Availability: As automatic transmissions have become increasingly popular, manual transmissions have become increasingly rare, limiting the selection of new cars available with them.
– Resale Value: In some cases, cars with manual transmissions may have lower resale value than those with automatic transmissions, as the market for manual-equipped vehicles is smaller.
### Conclusion
In an era where automatic transmissions dominate the automotive landscape, manual transmissions still hold a special place in the hearts of driving enthusiasts and those who appreciate the visceral experience of controlling their vehicle’s performance. While their availability is dwindling, there are still a handful of 2020 cars that offer manual transmission options, ranging from high-performance sports cars to budget-friendly sedans and hatchbacks. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling driving experience or simply want to enjoy the satisfaction of shifting gears, a manual transmission car may be the right choice for you.