Manual cars still exist, but you'll find far fewer of them in the U.S. than you would have ten or twenty years ago
Yes, manufacturers still produce manual transmissions and manual cars. However, the number of models available with a stick shift has shrunk dramatically. In 2024, fewer than 50 new car models sold in the United States offer a manual option, compared to hundreds just two decades ago. Most of those remaining manuals are in sports cars, trucks, and compact vehicles where enthusiasts still seek them out.
The decline isn't because manuals are obsolete—it's because automatic and continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) now outperform them in fuel economy, acceleration, and convenience for most drivers. Manufacturers have largely stopped offering manuals in sedans, crossovers, and family vehicles because consumer demand has shifted. If you want a manual today, you're shopping from a much smaller menu, and you'll pay attention to which specific models still offer one.
Key Takeaways
- Manual transmissions are still manufactured and sold new in the U.S., but only in roughly 40 to 50 vehicle models across all brands.
- Sports cars, pickup trucks, and a few compact models remain the primary segments where manuals are still offered as an option.
- Modern automatics and CVTs now deliver better fuel economy and faster acceleration than manuals in most vehicle classes, which is why manufacturers have phased them out elsewhere.
- If you're shopping for a manual, you'll need to check the specific model year and trim level, because availability changes annually and varies by region.
Which new cars still come with manual transmissions
The brands and models that still offer manuals are concentrated in a few categories. Sports cars like the Chevrolet Corvette, Dodge Challenger, and BMW M series still include manual options. The Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco offer manuals in certain trims. Several pickup trucks—including the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and GMC Sierra—still have manual options, though they're typically available only in base or work-focused trims.
Compact and subcompact cars have largely abandoned manuals, with a few exceptions. The Hyundai Veloster and Honda Civic Si remain among the last affordable manual options in the mainstream market. Some economy cars sold in other regions still come with manuals, but U.S. availability has narrowed significantly. Availability also shifts year to year—a model that offered a manual in 2023 might drop it in 2024, or vice versa, depending on manufacturer strategy and dealer orders.
International brands sometimes offer manuals in models not sold in the U.S., or in limited quantities for the American market. If you're set on a manual, check the manufacturer's website or contact dealers directly for the current model year, because inventory and options change frequently.
Why manuals have nearly disappeared from the market
Automatic transmissions have become so efficient that they now outperform manuals in real-world fuel economy. Modern eight-, nine-, and ten-speed automatics keep engines in their optimal RPM range better than a driver shifting manually can. Continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) offer even smoother power delivery and better mileage in many compact and midsize vehicles. For manufacturers trying to meet federal fuel economy standards, automatics and CVTs are the better engineering choice.
Acceleration and performance have also shifted in favor of automatics. Dual-clutch automatics and modern torque-converter automatics can shift faster than a human driver, which is why even performance cars now use them. The manual's advantage—driver engagement and control—matters to enthusiasts, but it doesn't matter to the majority of buyers who prioritize convenience, fuel economy, and resale value.
Consumer preference has moved decisively away from manuals. Fewer drivers learn to drive stick shift, which reduces demand. Resale value for manual cars is often lower than automatics in the same model, which discourages buyers. Manufacturers respond to this by dropping manuals from lineups where they don't sell well, which further reduces the pool of people who learn to drive them. It's a self-reinforcing cycle that has nearly eliminated manuals from mainstream vehicles.
What to expect if you buy a new manual car today
Your choice will be limited. You won't find manuals in most sedans, SUVs, or family vehicles. You'll be shopping from a curated list of sports cars, trucks, and a handful of compact models. Pricing may be higher or lower depending on the model—some manufacturers charge a premium for a manual because it's a specialty option; others discount it because it's less desirable to the general market.
Dealer inventory for manuals is often thin. A dealer may not have a manual in stock and may need to order one, which can add weeks to your purchase timeline. Some dealers have stopped ordering manuals altogether because they don't move quickly. Before you commit to a manual purchase, confirm that the dealer can actually source one and ask about the timeline.
Resale value is a real consideration. Manual cars typically sell for less on the used market than their automatic equivalents, and the pool of potential buyers is smaller. If you plan to keep the car long-term, this matters less. If you think you'll sell it in five years, factor in that you may take a bigger depreciation hit than you would with an automatic.
Used manual cars as an alternative to new
If you want more choice and lower cost, the used market still has plenty of manuals. Cars built before 2015 are far more likely to have manual options, and you can find them across many more model lines. Used manuals are often cheaper than their automatic counterparts, which can offset the smaller resale pool when you eventually sell.
The trade-off is age and mileage. A used manual from 2010 or 2012 will have more wear on the clutch and transmission than a new one, and repair costs for manual transmissions can be steep. A clutch replacement typically runs $800 to $1,500 depending on the vehicle, and transmission work is more expensive. Budget for potential repairs if you're buying used, especially if the car has high mileage or you don't know the service history.
Certified pre-owned (CPO) manuals from franchised dealers come with a warranty, which protects you against major transmission failure. This is worth considering if you're uncomfortable with the risk of an older manual. The CPO price will be higher than a private sale, but the warranty coverage can justify it.
Manual transmission maintenance and repair costs
Manual transmissions are simpler mechanically than automatics, which means some repairs are cheaper. A fluid change on a manual is straightforward and inexpensive. However, the clutch is a wear item that will eventually need replacement, and that's where costs add up. Clutch life varies widely depending on driving habits—aggressive drivers who ride the clutch or slip it frequently may need a replacement at 50,000 miles, while smooth drivers might get 150,000 miles or more.
Transmission failure on a manual is less common than on an automatic, but when it happens, repair costs are comparable or higher. A manual transmission rebuild or replacement can run $1,500 to $3,000 or more depending on the vehicle. Synchronizer wear, bearing failure, and gear damage are the most common issues in high-mileage manuals.
Finding a mechanic who works on manuals is becoming harder. As manuals disappear from the market, fewer independent shops maintain the informed to diagnose and repair them. Dealerships will always have the capability, but dealer labor rates are typically higher than independent shops. If you're buying a manual, factor in that maintenance and repair options may be more limited and potentially more expensive than for automatics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I special-order a manual car from a dealership?
Yes, most manufacturers allow special orders. Contact the dealership and ask if they can order a manual in your desired model and trim. Lead times vary from a few weeks to several months depending on the manufacturer and current production schedules. Confirm the price and terms in writing before placing the order, and understand that special orders are typically non-cancellable once production begins.
Are manual cars cheaper to insure?
Insurance rates are based on the vehicle's value, repair costs, and claims history—not the transmission type. A manual and automatic version of the same car will have nearly identical insurance premiums. Some insurers may offer tiny discounts for manual cars because they're less desirable to thieves, but the difference is negligible.
Will manual cars become valuable as collector's items?
Some manuals will likely become more sought-after as they become rarer, particularly sports cars and performance models. However, not all manuals will appreciate. Common economy cars with manuals may remain cheap and difficult to sell. If you're buying a manual hoping it will become valuable, focus on models with strong enthusiast followings or limited production runs.
Is it hard to find parts for manual transmissions?
Parts availability depends on the vehicle's age and popularity. New manuals have no problem sourcing parts through dealerships. Older or less common manuals may require longer lead times or specialty suppliers. Clutches, flywheels, and pressure plates are widely available for popular models, but transmission internals for rare vehicles can be difficult to find.
Do manual cars hold their value better because they're rare?
Rarity alone doesn't preserve value. Manual cars typically depreciate faster than automatics in the same model because the buyer pool is smaller. The exception is performance or sports cars where manuals are desirable to enthusiasts. In those cases, a manual might hold value better than an automatic, but this varies by model and market.