2021 Manual Transmission Cars

In 2021, manual transmission cars are a dying breed. If you’re looking for vehicles on the U.S. market today available with a manual gearbox, you’re going to have to look a little harder. However, they’re not dead yet. If you’re wondering which vehicles can be had with a stick shift and 3-pedals, look no further.

Here is a complete list of all the 2021 manual transmission cars (as well as trucks and crossovers). In fact, we even list which trim levels come with the manual, as well as their horsepower ratings. Just remember, get them while you can! More and more go away each year.

(Scroll to the bottom if you just want the raw list, without all the specifics.)

U.S. 2021 Manual Transmission Cars

Aston Martin

Vantage

The 2021 Aston Martin Vantage coupe got a special upgrade for driving enthusiasts as the coupe now comes standard with the seven-speed manual transmission previously released on the 2020 limited-edition Vantage AMR. As promised after the 200 limited-edition AMRs hit the market, Aston made the manual transmission available to a wider audience starting in 2021 with the Vantage. A 4-liter twin-turbo V8 puts out 503 hp and 460 lb-ft torque equalling the 2020 Vantage AMR. It boasts a 3.6 second 0-60 MPH in just 3.9 seconds and has a top speed of 195 mph.

BMW

2-Series

This is BMW’s smallest coupe for the U.S. market. For 2021, you can nab a 6-speed manual in the 248 hp 230i coupe and 335 hp M240i coupe can both be had with a manual transmission. If you want more power, the powerful 405 hp M2 Competition, good for a 4.2-second 0-60 blast, can also be had with a stick. They may be small, but the BMW 2-Series can be mighty.

M3

Say what you will about the front kidney grills on the 2021 M3, there’s no denying that the standard 6-speed manual transmission is made for driving enthusiasts. You can opt for the standard 473 hp sedan or bump up your smiles per mile with the 503 hp M3 Competition package. Both rear-wheel-drive sedans boast a 3.0L twin-turbo inline 6-cylinder engine.

M4

In previous years, BMW offered more options for manual transmissions in their 4-Series line-up. Unfortunately for 2021, they have a reduced offering with a stick shift. Fortunately, the model retaining the manual option is the 2021 M4 couple which can be ordered with a 6-speed manual.

Similar to the M3, you can opt for the standard 473 hp M4 Coupe or upgrade to the 503 hp M4 Competition. Either way, you’ll enjoy the 3-pedal experience driving this powerful twin-turbo inline-six.

Chevrolet

Camaro

One of America’s most renowned muscle car platforms still can be shifted manually in coupe or convertible configurations. Whether you opt for the 275 hp 2.oL turbocharged 4-cylinder, the 335 hp 3.6L 6-cylinder, the brawny 455 hp 6.2L V8, or the fire-breathing supercharged 650 hp 6.2L V8 in the ZL1 model, all can be had with a 6-speed stick shift.

There’s not a slouch in the bunch; even the four-banger will sprint to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds. The lightning-fast supercharged LT4 found in the ZL1 will blast to 60 in just 3.5 seconds!

Spark

Whether you’re looking for inexpensive wheels, a frugal commuter, or something in between, the subcompact Spark is available with a manual transmission. Making 98 hp from its ECOTEC 1.4-liter 4-cylinder, the Spark puts efficient power to the front wheels through an available 5-speed manual. The manual can be had on LS, 1Lt, 2LT, and crossover-like ACTIV trim levels. While it isn’t the fastest choice, buyers will have versatility, available bright colors, and up to 38 MPG.

Dodge

Challenger

The Challenger is Dodge’s answer to the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang. The powerful two-door coupe can be had with a manual transmission on its 375 hp R/T, 485 hp R/T Scat Pack, and tire-melting 717 hp Hellcat models. That Hellcat will get you to 60 MPH in the three-second range and to 100 MPH in just over seven seconds (but only on a racetrack, of course). We hear they can do some sweet burnouts, too. None of the AWD models can be had with the stick shift.

Ford

Mustang

The Mustang is Ford’s legendary entrant into the modern muscle wars. And like any good muscle car, it can be shifted manually. Though this year you no longer have the option of the 2020 Shelby GT350 and the Shelby GT500 is only available with a seven-speed DCT, you luckily can still get a stick shift in every other Mustang, coupe and convertible alike. The six-speed manual is available on the 2.3L four-banger, the 5.0L V8 in the GT, and the 480 hp Bullitt as well as in the 2021 Mach 1.

Bronco

The 2021 Ford Bronco comes in a wide range of models and luckily for manual lovers you the Base, Big Bend, Black Diamond, and Badlands all come standard with Ford’s 7-speed manual transmission—complete with crawler gear. Thanks to the Bronco’s highly customizable build, you can piece together the perfect package starting with whether you want a 2-door or 4-door version and go from there. If you prefer stick-shifting your way through your off-road adventures, it’s hard to beat this versatile machine

Genesis

G70

Genesis is Hyundai’s luxury marque. The G70 sedan is the smallest Genesis, and it can be equipped with a six-speed manual when paired to its 252 hp 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This option will up the cost by $3,050. If you want the manual, power goes to the rear wheels only. If you’d prefer the larger V6 engine or all-wheel drive, you’ll need to get the automatic transmission.

Honda

Civic

Honda’s Civic has been sold in the U.S. since 1973 and it’s always had a manual option. That doesn’t change some 48-years later. Though the manual-only Si is no more, you can still get the 180 hp Sport hatchback with a stick. And perhaps even more appealing, the 305 hp Civic Type R is also still offered with the 6-speed manual.

Hyundai

Accent

The subcompact Accent sedan makes 120 hp and, if you opt for the base-level SE model, you can have a six-speed manual transmission. This car will get up to 41 MPG highway, has standard steering wheel-mounted controls, and starts at under $15,395. It also includes Hyundai’s 5-year, 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and 10-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Not bad for under $15,400.

Veloster

Another manual option from Hyundai is the Veloster hatchback. This unique, 3-door model comes standard with a 6-speed manual and a base 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that makes 147 hp. Or you can opt for a turbocharged 1.6L for a bump up to 201 hp. Hyundai also decks out a 275 hp version called the Veloster N which is billed as the performance enthusiast’s hatchback which also comes with the 6-speed manual. The new Veloster N has recently made its mark as one of the most entertaining hot hatches in recent history.

Elantra

The 2021 Hyundai Elantra is a good all-around sedan if you are looking for a manual option. The N Line trim package comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission. The Elantra’s 1.6L turbocharged engine makes 201 hp and has plenty of get-up-and-go. Plus with a spacious interior, a few sport upgrades, and an estimated 34 MPG, the N Line Elantra delivers on all fronts.

Jeep

Gladiator

The Gladiator is Jeep’s newest pickup. It’s powered by a 285 hp 3.6L V6 and can be mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Nearly all versions, from the basic Sport package to the off-road-capable Rubicon model, can be had with the 6-speed manual transmission. All include a rugged part-time 4WD system with a low-range transfer case.

Wrangler

Jeep’s Wrangler is a legend among 4WD vehicles. Loved by off-roaders across the globe, it’s available with a 6-speed manual transmission when mated to the 285 hp 3.6L V6 engine. Wrangler’s 4WD system uses a manually engaged two-speed transfer case. The much-adored SUV is available in two or 4-door variants and is extremely capable off-road, especially when modified with some quality off-road parts.

Kia

Forte

Literally, the last Kia sedan for the U.S. market that can be manually shifted is the compact Forte. You can opt for either the base Forte FE trim or upgrade to the GT Manual package with a 6-speed manual transmission. The 147 hp FE has a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder while the GT Manual comes with a 1.6L turbocharged engine making 201 hp to the front wheels. The GT Manual also comes with larger front disc brakes and a free-flowing exhaust system making this a spunky sedan.

Soul

The Soul has become a very popular hatchback with lots of space and a fun-to-drive nature, not to mention funky styling. Only one of the six Soul trim levels can be had with a 6-speed manual, and that’s the base LX version. With that, you’ll get a 147 HP 2.0Lr 4-cylinder powering the front wheels. The speedy GT-Line Turbo only comes with a 7-speed dual-clutch auto.

Lotus

Evora GT

For 2021, British automaker, Lotus, offers just one model: the 416-hp Evora GT. It includes a supercharged 3.5L V6 paired to a standard 6-speed gearbox. This super-fast supercar will sprint to 60 mph in just 3.8-seconds. It also has a lightweight composite body and a host of other goodies to make it a bantamweight street fighter, typical of the Lotus tradition. The Evora GT is one of the very best handling 2021 manual transmission cars available.

Mazda

Mazda3

The compact Mazda3 was recently redesigned and can be had as a hatchback or sedan. If you want a manual transmission, however, you’ll have to choose the uniquely styled hatchback then opt for the Premium Package—the only model with the stick shift. Power comes courtesy of a non-turbo 186 hp twin-cam 2.5L 4-cylinder powering the front wheels. An AWD Mazda3 is available, but only with an automatic.

MX-5 Miata

A modern classic, the fourth-generation MX-5 Miata is a living legend among sports cars. While not the fastest, this convertible is one of the most fun cars available, especially for the money. Like any classic sports car, a manual gearbox is standard fare. (An automatic is available.) Power is sent to the rear wheels via a sewing-machine-smooth 2.0L engine cranking out 181 hp. The MX-5 is available with a manually folding soft-top or a power-retractable hardtop.

Mini Cooper

Hardtop and Clubman

Though not every Mini model is offered with a manual, you do have two stick shift options in the 2021 line-up. The Mini Cooper Hardtop and Clubman both come with a standard 6-speed manual. On the Hardtop, you can choose from the Cooper, Cooper S, and John Cooper Works models which range from 134 hp up to 228 hp for the JCW package. The larger Clubman boasts 189 hp and comes in a 6-speed manual in the Cooper and Cooper S models.

Mitsubishi

Mirage

The Mirage hatchback is one of the least expensive, least powerful but most frugal cars on the U.S. market. The base ES model can be purchased with a 5-speed manual. The car’s tiny 1.2L 3-cylinder engine makes only 78 hp but returns exceptional fuel economy. Starting at just over $14,000, the Mirage has a 5-year, 60,000-mile, bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year, 100,000 powertrain warranty; one of the longest available.

Mirage G4

If you like everything but the Mitsubishi Mirage except the hatchback body style, take a look at the Mirage G4. This sedan, which can also be had with a 5-speed manual gearbox in ES trim, has the same 1.2L three-banger found in the hatchback version but gets one less MPG. The trunk is surprisingly big, and it carries that exceptional warranty, too (5-year or 50,000 miles bumper to bumper and 10-year or 100,000 powertrain).

Nissan

370Z

Nissan’s Z cars have a long history of performance—over 50 years as of 2021. They’ve always been available with a manual transmission as well. This tradition continues with the 370Z, which can be mated to a six-speed manual. The 370Z’s gearbox also includes rev-matching. This feature blips the throttle when downshifting to help drivers get smooth, quick shifts each time. The naturally aspirated 3.7L V6 makes a great song and loves to rev. The engine sends 332 hp to the rear wheels and provides plenty of canyon-carving entertainment.

Versa

The newly redesigned subcompact Versa retains its manual transmission option, although only a sedan body style remains. That is, of course, if you stick with the base-level S model. The 2021 Versa has a 122 hp 1.6L mill under the hood powering the front wheels. The ’21 Versa is larger and more refined than the previous iteration. It can also net up to 35 MPG on the highway.

Porsche

718 (Boxter / Cayman)

The mid-engine Porche 718 includes Boxster convertibles and Cayman hardtops. So whether you want the standard 300 hp boosted 2.0L 4-cylinder Boxster drop-top or the racy, naturally aspirated 4.0L 414 hp 6-cylinder Cayman GT4 hardtop, you can make your own gear changes using a 6-speed manual transmission. All Boxster and Cayman models are rear-wheel-drive and sure to please driving enthusiasts.

911

When most people think Porsche, they think of the quintessential 911. While it’s evolved a lot over the years, it is still available with a manual gearbox. The 911 with a manual has a whopping 10-variants to choose from. These cars can be had with rear- or all-wheel drive, and in a variety of body styles. Power output ranges from 442 hp on the 911 Carrera S to 450 hp on Carrara GTS models. These are serious German performance machines that can be had in nearly any option to satisfy any Porche buyer.

Subaru

BRZ

The BRZ is part Subaru, part Toyota. New for this year, it features a 228 hp 2.4L naturally aspirated Subaru “boxer” engine. The rear-drive sports car is a ton of fun to drive and it even has a back seat, albeit a small one. And yes—a 6-speed manual transmission is available. The BRZ has a mechanical twin, the Toyota 86 if you prefer your sports cars to start with a T. This is also the only non-AWD Subaru for sale in the U.S. today.

Crosstrek

The all-wheel-drive Crosstrek is a compact crossover based on the Subaru Impreza. It has scads of personality and a go-anywhere spirit. Plus, you can get it in orange! Opt for the standard Crosstrek or Crosstrek Premium (not the Sport, Limited, or Hybrid), and you can also go for a 6-speed manual. Power comes from a 2.0L horizontally opposed engine making 152 hp. The Crosstrek offers more ground clearance than the Impreza, making it great for hikers, bikers, kayakers, and skiers who may often encounter bad roads or foul weather.

Impreza

Subaru’s all-wheel-drive Impreza Sedan and 5-door employ the same 152 hp 2.0L engine as the above-mentioned Crosstrek and can also be mated to a manual transmission. Unlike the Crosstrek, the Impreza gets a five-speed instead of a 6-speed. Also, you can only get the manual on standard model Imprezas. If you want the Impreza Premium, it’s a CVT for you.

WRX/STI

With rally racing DNA, Subaru’s WRX and STI AWD sports sedans offer gusty turbocharged engines and tuned suspension systems for outstanding performance. The WRX has a 2.0L 4-cylinder making 268 hp; the STI has a 2.5Lr four-pot making 310 hp. Both cars are available with 6-speed manual transmissions. No matter which you choose, you’ll get a fast, fun 4-door sedan offering great performance in a variety of road conditions.

Toyota

Corolla

Toyota’s Corolla has long been a bastion of reliability, economy, and steadfast transportation. Additionally, they’ve always been available with a stick shift; that continues for 2021. If you want a Corolla sedan with a 6-speed manual gearbox, you’ll have to opt for the tarted-up SE model. That model also includes the more powerful 169 hp 2.0L engine compared to CVT-equipped models. While the car may have had dowdy looks in the past, the Corolla has shaped up to be a handsome sedan.

Corolla Hatchback

The Corolla Hatchback made a triumphant return to the U.S. market in 2019 and continues to be sold for 2021. The attractive-looking 5-door Corolla has the same 169 hp engine as the sedan, but can be had with a 6-speed manual on the SE as well as the racier XSE models. The Hatchback puts to bed any inkling of a vanilla-looking past. The Corolla Hatchbacks, especially in XSE trim, look athletic and modern.

86

Mechanically speaking, the Toyota 86 which was co-developed with Suburu, shares some DNA with the aforementioned Subaru BRZ. It gets boasts a 2.0L boxer four-pot making 205 hp and power is sent through a standard 6-speed manual transmission. The 86, named after the esteemed rear-drive Toyota AE86 of the 1980s, is available in standard, GT, and Hakone Edition trim levels. All get you a fun-to-drive sports car with dashing good looks without spending crazy wads of cash.

Tacoma

If you like to row your own gears in the Toyota Tacoma you’ll have to opt for the TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and TRD Pro models. They can have a 6-speed manual behind the 278 hp 3.5L V6 engine. All will feature 4WD with a high/low range transfer case to get you through snow, sand, mud, or rocks.

Volkswagen

Golf / GTI

For the all-new eighth-generation Golf, VW continues to offer its mainstay hatchback with a 6-speed manual transmission. For 2021, the fun-to-drive Golf GTI, one of the best hot hatchbacks out there, makes 228 hp thanks to its 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Keep an eye open for the 2022 model arriving later this year. All Golf versions are known for their European feel and German engineering.

Jetta

The Jetta has been the compact compadre to VWs Golf for decades. It also shares many of the engine choices. Like the Golf, it can be had with a 6-speed manual, too. However, you’ll need to choose the base S trim to get that option. Alternatively, pick the GLI sports sedan instead, and you’ll get a 2.0L 4-cylinder making 228 hp. Expect a similar driving experience to the Golf/GTI, but with a locking trunk.