Manual transmissions are becoming a rare sight as automakers chase efficiency, emissions targets, and broad market appeal. Each year, more stick-shift models disappear, replaced by smooth-shifting automatics and advanced dual-clutch gearboxes. Yet for many driving enthusiasts, the tactile engagement of a manual remains unmatched. The satisfying clutch take-up and precise gear changes create a connection between driver and machine that no paddle shifter can fully replicate.
Even with shrinking demand, a handful of manufacturers continue to champion the three-pedal setup. These companies recognize that performance purists value control and involvement over sheer convenience. They also understand that offering a manual helps preserve a passionate community of drivers who see shifting for themselves as an essential part of the experience.
This list celebrates the cars that will keep that spirit alive into 2026. From nimble sports coupes to well-balanced sedans and even a few surprising outliers, these models prove that the joy of rowing your own gears isn’t dead, just more exclusive than ever.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including TopSpeed and the EPA. This is not a comprehensive list of all manual transmission cars in 2025, just five important and exciting models.
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### 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata
**Starting MSRP:** $29,830 (2025)
Perhaps one of the most important manual transmission cars is the Mazda MX-5 Miata. This little roadster has been around for decades and continues to capture the heart and soul of enthusiasts. While the future of this sporty Mazda remains mostly undecided, we’ve been assured it will stay true to its original ethos.
#### Mazda MX-5 Trims and Pricing (2025)
Mazda offers the Miata in two different forms: the soft top convertible and the RF targa top. It remains the most affordable new sports car on the market. For 2026, we expect that the MX-5’s starting price might finally crack $30,000. The next generation Miata is on the horizon as well, but we expect it to only come for the 2027 or 2028 model year.
Mazda’s Chief Technical Officer, Ryuichi Umeshita, assures us that a manual transmission is part of the plans no matter what.
> “Manual transmission gives us the feeling of maneuvering the car by ourselves. And our promise of driving dynamics, the oneness between car and driver; natural aspiration, lighter weight, and manual transmission are key for that package.”
> — Ryuichi Umeshita
We think that keeping things cheap is the best mindset when it comes to the MX-5, which is why we’d suggest the soft-top Club trim. It adds some niceties, including a Bose sound system and a better suspension tune.
#### Performance Specifications
Every MX-5 comes with the same naturally aspirated inline-four under the hood. It doesn’t post particularly large numbers, but the Miata’s curb weight of under 2,500 pounds means that it still feels exceptionally peppy. It is sharp and eager around corners and, more than anything else, it is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
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### 2026 Nissan Z
**Starting MSRP:** $42,970 (2025)
There have been a number of Japanese sports car revivals in the last couple of years. The Nissan Z had the roughest launch out of all of them, with public opinion favoring the Toyota GR Supra. However, the Z’s nostalgic ethos definitely deserves another look, with its low starting price being among its biggest strengths.
#### Nissan Z Trims and Pricing (2025)
The Z comes in three different trim levels. Nissan has yet to release pricing for the 2026 model year, but you can expect a slight increase. As it stands, the Sport and Performance trims are the only two that can be had with a manual transmission, but Nissan is adding the analog option to the NISMO in the future as well.
If we were to pick the best value option, we’d stick with the Performance trim. It comes fitted with upgraded brakes, an improved suspension setup, and a limited-slip differential. It also features a number of interior upgrades. The NISMO may be enticing, but the Performance is the best balanced for daily use.
#### Performance Specifications
The Z comes equipped with a twin-turbocharged V-6 no matter what model you opt for. The NISMO does, however, make more power, putting down 420 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. It’s not quite as sharp or as quick off the line as the GR Supra, but it is still more than capable of entertaining.
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### 2026 BMW M2
**Starting MSRP:** $68,200
The most affordable real M car in BMW’s lineup is the M2. While many look at the M3 and the M4 as being the performance benchmarks for the brand, the M2 is the most analog and visceral car you can get from the German brand. It is a monster that will eat you alive if you let it, and that is part of the appeal.
#### BMW M2 Trims and Pricing
The big news for the 2026 model year is that BMW has introduced a new lightweight CS model. Not only is it lighter than the regular M2, but it is also more powerful. If you want a manual transmission, though, you’re going to have to stick with the classic M2, which is in no way a bad thing as it is already a fantastic car.
The addition of the CS to the lineup definitely complicates things. With one choice on the table, it used to be pretty straightforward. It ultimately comes down to preference, though. If you’re going to save your M2 for track days, then opt for the CS, but if you’re looking forward to carving up backroads and rowing through gears, stick with the base model.
#### Performance Specifications
Every M2 comes with a twin-turbocharged inline-six, but output is different depending on which model you opt for. The automatic version of the base M2 puts out a little more muscle, delivering 443 pound-feet of torque. The CS is even more powerful. We haven’t driven the CS, but we expect it to be as smile-inducing as the regular M2.
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### 2026 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing
**Starting MSRP:** $99,095
If you’re looking for a premium sports sedan, the most traditional options are usually from Germany. However, the CT5-V Blackwing proves that Americans are still capable of coming out on top. It is a honed machine that is built for the track but transitions to highways with an exceptional amount of ease.
#### Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing Trims and Pricing
The CT5-V Blackwing is a single trim model, fully kitted from the word go. It comes standard with a manual transmission, with the automatic costing you an additional $6,275.
The main change for the 2026 model is that Cadillac is opening orders for custom-built models, with a limited number of customers getting to personalize their Blackwing. These bespoke models will start at $158,000. Other news is that Blind Zone steering assist is added as a standard feature and new color options join the lineup.
#### Performance Specifications
The CT5-V Blackwing is a weapon that is designed to dominate the track, featuring tons of technology like the Performance Traction Management stability control system. It absolutely rockets to 60 miles per hour thanks to its gorgeous supercharged V-8 and its standard manual is a joy to use.
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### 2026 Porsche 911 Carrera T
**Starting MSRP:** $143,700
The Porsche 911 has been the benchmark for all grand touring cars for as long as it has been around, with performance that is near unmatched and a fantastically plush cabin. Its iconic silhouette and unique driving dynamics have made it the dream car of just about every petrolhead ever.
#### Porsche 911 Trims and Pricing
The 911 Carrera comes in a number of different trims and body styles. It can be had as a coupe, cabriolet, or a targa-top. Of the many trims on offer, it is only the Carrera T that comes fitted with a manual transmission. It offers a more analog experience compared to the rest of the 911 lineup.
In classic Porsche fashion, the stripped-back T actually costs more than the base Carrera, despite being a little slower off the line. Despite this, we think it’s worth it for the more engaging driving experience. Otherwise, the new T-Hybrid system makes the GTS an attractive trim.
#### Performance Specifications
The base Carrera and the T both see a slight bump in power compared to last year, thanks to a number of upgrades. The S doesn’t see a boost in power but gets some upgraded brakes. The GTS sees the biggest upgrade, in the form of a new hybrid powertrain, which makes it absurdly quick off the line.
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Manual transmissions may be becoming rare, but these five models prove that the joy of a stick shift lives on — offering drivers an authentic and engaging experience in 2026 and beyond. Whether you prioritize affordability, nostalgic charm, raw power, or refined performance, there’s a manual car out there to keep your passion for driving alive.
https://www.howtogeek.com/five-cars-still-have-a-manual-2026/