## Manual Transmission Holdouts: Car Companies Still Offering the Stick Shift
Despite the waning popularity of manual transmissions in favor of automatic gearboxes, a handful of car companies still offer vehicles with the classic three-pedal setup. Here’s a comprehensive list of manufacturers that continue to embrace the manual option in 2023:
### Japanese Automakers
– Mazda: Mazda has a long-standing tradition of offering manual transmissions in its sports cars and enthusiast-oriented vehicles. The current lineup includes the MX-5 Miata, Mazda3, and CX-30.
– Subaru: Subaru is another Japanese automaker known for its embrace of manual transmissions. The Impreza, WRX, and BRZ all come with stick shift options.
– Honda: Honda has scaled back its manual transmission offerings in recent years, but the Civic Si and Accord Sport still feature the three-pedal setup.
– Nissan: Nissan’s 370Z sports car remains one of the few vehicles in its class to offer a manual gearbox.
– Toyota: In the Toyota lineup, the GR Corolla and GR86 stand out as manual-only performance vehicles.
### European Automakers
– BMW: While BMW has largely phased out manual transmissions from its luxury sedans and SUVs, the M2 and M3 still offer the option for enthusiasts.
– Volkswagen: Volkswagen continues to offer manual transmissions in a variety of models, including the Golf, GTI, Jetta, and Tiguan.
– Porsche: As a performance-oriented brand, Porsche has retained manual transmissions as an option in many of its models, including the 911, Boxster, and Cayman.
– Audi: Audi’s manual transmission options are limited to the RS3 and TT RS.
– Mercedes-Benz: Mercedes-Benz offers manual transmissions in a few performance models, such as the A 45 AMG and CLA 45 AMG.
### American Automakers
– Ford: Ford’s manual transmission offerings have dwindled, but the Mustang Shelby GT350 and GT500 remain available with the stick shift.
– Chevrolet: Chevrolet discontinued manual transmissions in most of its models, but the Corvette C8 and Silverado 1500 still feature the three-pedal setup as an option.
## Benefits of Manual Transmissions
For driving enthusiasts, manual transmissions offer a number of benefits over automatic gearboxes:
– Increased Control: Manual transmissions give drivers more direct control over the vehicle’s performance, allowing them to select the optimal gear for any situation.
– Improved Fuel Economy: In certain driving conditions, manual transmissions can improve fuel economy compared to automatics.
– Enhanced Engagement: The act of shifting gears manually provides a more engaging and rewarding driving experience.
## Drawbacks of Manual Transmissions
However, manual transmissions also come with some drawbacks:
– Steeper Learning Curve: Mastering a manual transmission requires more practice and skill than an automatic.
– Increased Driver Fatigue: In heavy traffic or on long journeys, shifting gears manually can lead to fatigue.
– Limited Availability: The availability of manual transmissions is increasingly limited, especially in newer vehicles.
## Future of Manual Transmissions
The future of manual transmissions is uncertain. As automated driving technologies become more prevalent, the need for manual gearboxes may diminish. However, for a dedicated group of enthusiasts, the stick shift will likely remain a cherished option for many years to come.