In 2020, manual transmission cars are a dying breed. However, they’re not dead yet. About 13% of all new vehicles on the U.S. market today are available with a manual gearbox, which is down significantly from only a few years ago. So if you’re wondering which vehicles can be had with a stick shift and three pedals, look no further.
Here is a complete list of all the 2020 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.
U.S. 2020 Manual Transmission Cars
Aston Martin
Vantage AMR
The Aston Martin Vantage AMR is a truly special car. Only 200 will be made worldwide. It comes with a 7-speed manual transmission, currently the only Aston Martin to do so. While the Vantage AMR adds to the list of 2020 manual transmission cars, other Vantage models will be available with this manual transmission starting in 2021. A 4-liter twin-turbo V8 puts out 503 HP and 461 lb-ft torque propelling the Vantage AMR from 0-60 MPH in just 3.9 seconds. The Vantage AMR can also top 200 MPH!
BMW
2-Series
This is BMW’s smallest coupe for the U.S. market. The 248 HP 230i coupe and 335 HP M240i coupe and convertible both can 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 2-Series can be mighty.
4-Series
Need a BMW bigger than a 2-Series but still want to shift the car yourself? The 4-Series is your ticket. A six-speed manual gearbox can be had on both the rear-drive 248 HP 430i coupe and 320 HP 44oi coupe, as wells as the all-wheel-drive 44oi xDrive coupe. The muscular 425 HP M4 coupe and convertible also come with three pedals. The four-door Grand Coupes are automatic only for 2020.
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.o-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, the 335 HP 3.6-liter six-cylinder, the brawny 455 HP 6.2-liter V8, or the fire-breathing supercharged 650 6.2-liter V8 in the ZL1 model, all can be had with a six-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 four-cylinder, the Spark puts efficient power to the front wheels through an available five-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, however.
Fiat
124 Spider
With Mazda MX-5 Miata underpinnings and a Fiat engine, the 124 Spider is a Japanese/Italian mashup. The Classica, Urbana, Lusso, and sporty Abarth models can all be mated to six-speed manual transmissions. All models employ the 1.4-liter Multiair engine making 160 HP in all but the Abarth model, which gets 164 HP. All are rear-drive sports convertibles providing plenty of driving fun and sensational exhaust note, especially the raspy Abarth. Add to it Mazda-bred driving dynamics and the 124 Spider amounts to a convincingly fun convertible.
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. The 2.3-liter four-banger in EcoBoost model, the 5.0-liter V8 in the GT, and 5.2-liter V8 in Shelby GT250 Mustangs are available with the six-speed manual. By the way, that four-pot will churn up to 330 HP, the 5.0 makes 460 HP, and the 5.2 will muster 526 HP. The 760 HP Shelby GT500 rocketship only comes with the automatic transmission, however.
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 2.0-liter turbocharged four-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
Accord
The Accord sedan is a long-running nameplate for Honda. And like Accords of yesteryear, 2020 models can be bought with a manual transmission; specifically, a six-speed. Fittingly, the manual can be had in Sport trim paired to either a 192 HP 1.5-liter or 252 HP 2.0-liter engine; both are turbocharged and offer solid, entertaining performance.
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 47 years later. Whether you opt for a coupe or sedan, you’ll be able to shift the Civic yourself. Choose the 180 HP Sport or Sport Touring Sedan, the 205 HP Civic Si Sedan, or the hyper 306 HP Civic Type R hatchback if you want a four-door. Prefer a two-door Civic coupe with a manual? Choose the 158 HP Civic Sport Coupe or the 205 HP Civic Si Coupe.
Fit
Possibly one of the most versatile small cars ever, the Fit offers loads of practicality and spunky driving characteristics, especially with its six-speed manual transmission. The shift-it-yourself experience is available on the entry-level LX model and the entertaining Sport version. Both models come equipped with a 130 HP 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine.
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 $15,300, too. It also includes Hyundai’s 5-year, 60,000 miles bumper-to-bumper warranty and 10-year, 100,000 miles powertrain warranty. Not bad for under $15,300.
Elantra GT
If you’re looking for a compact five-door performer in the Hyundai lineup and a manual transmission, the Elantra GT hatchback is it. However, you’ll need to step up to the more athletic N Line trim package to get the six-speed manual. It’s worth it, as the hatchback makes 201 HP to the front wheels and has a host of sportier features than the standard Elantra GT.
Veloster
The Veloster originally made its mark several years ago by offering coupe looks, but with two doors on one side of the car. Recently redesigned, it continues to offer a manual transmission option if you select the right trim levels. The 147 HP 2.0, 201 HP Turbo R Spec, and 250 HP N Line models all can be had with manual gearboxes. The new N Line Veloster has recently made is mark as one of the most entertaining hot hatches in recent history.
Venue
The 2020 Venue is all-new for Hyundai and is a front-drive crossover. It’s powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder making 121 HP. Select the base SE model and you can have this very usable vehicle with a six-speed manual. Unfortunately, the Venue SE doesn’t have the neat-looking white roof available as seen on higher-end trim levels which are automatic-only.
Jeep
Compass
The Compass is Jeep’s compact crossover. The Sport and Lattitude models can be had with AWD and the company’s six-speed manual transmission. A 180 HP 2.4-liter MultiAir engine is paired with this gearbox. The most off-road capable Compass, the Tralhawk, is only offered with an automatic transmission. The Compass is one of only two AWD crossovers available with a manual in 2020.
Gladiator
The Gladiator is Jeep’s newest pickup. It’s powered by a 285 HP 3.6-liter V6 and can be mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Nearly all versions, from the basic Sport package to the off-road-capable Rubicon model, can be had with the six-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 six-speed manual transmission when mated to the 285 HP 3.6-liter V6 engine. Wrangler’s 4WD system uses a manually engaged two-speed transfer case. The much-adored SUV is available in two or four-door variants and is extremely capable off-road, especially when modified with some quality off-road parts.
Kia
Forte GT
Literally the last Kia sedan for the U.S. market that can be manually shifted is the compact Forte in GT Manual trim. A six-speed Forte GT Manual comes with a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine making 201 HP to the front wheels. It also has available 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 six-speed manual, and that’s the base S version. With that, you’ll get a 147 HP 2.0-liter four-cylinder powering the front wheels. The speedy GT-Line Turbo only comes with a seven-speed dual-clutch auto.
Lotus
Evora GT
For 2020, British automaker, Lotus, offers just one model: the Evora GT. It includes a supercharged 3.5-liter V6 paired to a standard six-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 2020 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 2.5-liter four-cylinder powering the front wheels. An AWD Mazda3 is available, but only with an automatic.
MX-5 Miata
A modern classic, the 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 2.0-liter engine cranking out 181 HP. The MX-5 is available with a manually folding soft-top or a power-retractable hardtop.
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 five-speed manual. The car’s tiny 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine makes only 78 HP but returns exceptional fuel economy. In fact, it’s got the best overall non-hybrid gas mileage available in 2020. Starting at under $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 five-speed manual gearbox in ES trim, has the same 1.2-liter 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—50 years as of 2020. 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 3.7-liter 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. (The Versa Note hatchback was discontinued.) That is, of course, if you stick with the base-level S model. The 2020 Versa has a 122 HP 1.6-liter mill under the hood powering the front wheels. The ’20 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 Boxter convertibles and Cayman hardtops. So whether you want the standard 300 HP boosted 2.0-liter four-cylinder Boxter drop-top, or the or the racy naturally aspirated 4.0-liter 414 HP six-cylinder Cayman GT4 hardtop, you can make your own gear changes using a six-speed manual transmission. All Boxter and Cayman models are rear-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. It features a 205 HP 2.0-liter horizontally opposed Subaru “boxer” engine and a chassis co-developed with Toyota. 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 six-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 Limited or Hybrid), and you can also go for a six-speed manual. Power comes from a 2.0-liter 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 2.0-liter 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. 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 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 268 HP; the STI has a 2.5-liter four-pot making 310 HP. Both cars are available with six-speed manual transmissions. No matter which you choose, you’ll get a fast, fun four-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 2020. If you want a Corolla sedan with a six-speed manual gearbox, you’ll have to opt for the tarted-up SE model. That model also includes the more powerful 169 HP 2.0-liter 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 2020. The attractive-looking five-door Corolla has the same 169 HP engine as the sedan, but can be had with a six-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 is identical to the aforementioned Subaru BRZ. It gets the same 2.0-liter boxer four-pot making 205 HP and power is sent through a standard six-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
This is the last mid-sized pickup truck available on the U.S. market offering a manual transmission If you like to row your own gears, you’ll have to opt for the TRD Sport, TRD Off-Road, and TRD Pro models. They can have a six-speed manual behind the 278 HP 3.5-liter V6 engine. All will feature 4WD with a high/low range transfer case to get you through snow, sand, mud, or rocks.
Yaris
The current generation Yaris sedan is actually built by Mazda, despite its Toyota badge. Power comes from the Mazda-made 1.5-liter mill making 106 HP. Both L and LE models can be had with a six-speed manual transmission. The XLE model is CVT only. With its Mazda DNA, the Yaris sedan is surprisingly rewarding to drive. Unfortunately, if you want the new Mazda-built Yaris Hatchback, you’ll have to settle for the CVT.
Volkswagen
Golf / GTI / R
Now in its seventh generation, VW continues to offer its mainstay hatchback with a six-speed manual transmission in all of its hatchback versions. For 2020, the turbocharged 1.4-liter engine in TSI trim makes 147 HP to the front wheels. The fun-to-drive Golf GTI, one of the best hot hatchbacks out there, makes 228 turbocharged HP. The high-performance all-wheel-drive 4MOTION Golf R whips up 288 pones. 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 six-speed manual, too. However, you’ll need to choose the S or R Line trims. Both produce 147 HP to the front wheels. Pick the GLI sports sedan instead and you’ll get a 2.0-liter four-cylinder making 228 HP. Expect a similar driving experience to the Golf/GTI, but with a locking trunk.
2020 Manual Transmission Cars: 42 Vehicles With Three Pedals & a Stick-Shift
- Aston Martin Vantage AMR
- BMW 2 Series
- BMW 4 Series
- Chevrolet Camaro
- Chevrolet Spark
- Dodge Challenger
- Fiat 124 Spider
- Ford Mustang
- Genesis G70
- Honda Accord
- Honda Civic
- Honda Fit
- Hyundai Accent
- Hyundai Elantra GT
- Hyundai Veloster
- Hyundai Venue
- Jeep Compass
- Jeep Gladiator
- Jeep Wrangler
- Kia Forte GT
- Kia Soul
- Lotus Evora GT
- Mazda Mazda3
- Mazda MX-5 Miata
- Mitsubishi Mirage
- Mitsubishi Mirage G4
- Nissan 370Z
- Nissan Versa
- Porsche 718 Boxter
- Porsche 718 Cayman
- Porsche 911
- Subaru BRZ
- Subaru Crosstrek
- Subaru Impreza
- Subaru WRX / STI
- Toyota Corolla
- Toyota Corolla Hatchback
- Toyota 86
- Toyota Tacoma
- Toyota Yaris
- Volkswagen Golf / GTI / R
- Volkswagen Jetta
Manual Transmission Cars
Every year the list of cars equipped with three pedals and a stick shift becomes ever more sparse. While 2020 manual transmission cars might be the driving enthusiast’s choice, new more modern automatic transmissions can offer better performance, fuel economy, and can shift faster than any human can. But for some, driving a car with a manual gearbox offers the feeling of more control and a more direct connection with the vehicle. While there are still “purists” out there who only buy manual-equipped vehicles, these cars are getting harder and harder to come by. So if you’re in the market, don’t delay. These 2020 manual transmission cars might be gone soon!
