At one time, having an automatic gearbox felt like a luxury. However these days, it’s far more likely your car will come with an auto instead of a manual transmission.
In fact, of the 450 different makes, models and derivatives of cars currently on sale, only around a quarter can still be had with a manual gearbox. With a greater push towards more hybrid and electric models, which are nearly always automatic, the number of manual cars is only set to keep reducing.
Manufacturers such as Alfa Romeo, Mercedes and Volvo no longer make a manual, but if you like changing gear with a traditional gearstick, what new cars can you still get with a manual gearbox? Let’s take a look.
Vauxhall Corsa
Now that Ford has stopped making its Fiesta, Vauxhall is looking to benefit with its best-selling Corsa. It’s recently been sharpened with a mid-life update, giving it a new front-end design and additional technology to help keep it fresh.
Though the Corsa is also sold as a hybrid and electric model, Vauxhall also sells a choice of 1.2-litre petrol engines with either a five- or six-speed manual gearbox.
Honda Civic Type R
Honda’s range is now almost entirely made up of hybrid and electric models, but there’s one big exception – the Civic Type R. The latest version of the firm’s acclaimed hot hatch is the best car Honda sells - by some margin.
Its revvy 2.0-litre petrol engine also comes exclusively with a sensational six-speed manual gearbox, which is a joy to use.
Ford Puma
While Ford might have axed the Fiesta, its Puma crossover has taken over its place as Britain’s most popular car. The Puma is good to drive, well-specified and offers plenty of interior space for a compact car.
The Puma comes with the choice of a 1.0-litre mild-hybrid and 1.5-litre petrol engine, with both coming with a six-speed manual gearbox, which continue to account for the majority of sales here.
Mazda CX-5
It’s larger SUVs that are fairly hard to find with a manual transmission these days, but an exception to this rule is the Mazda CX-5. In fact, the Japanese manufacturer continues to champion this type of gearbox, with most of its cars still available with a manual.
On the CX-5, you can have a manual on both petrol and diesel engines, with this SUV being great to drive but still roomy and well-equipped for family duties.
BMW 1 Series
BMW is another that has largely removed all manual models from its range, but its entry-level 1 Series continues to be available for those wanting to change gear themselves, on both petrol and diesel models.
This premium hatchback offers an enjoyable driving experience, while its interior is among the best in the family hatchback class.
Renault Clio
Renault introduced its latest Clio towards the end of 2023, and initially, its UK arm said it would only be available as an automatic hybrid model. However, the firm quickly changed its mind to lower this supermini’s price by introducing an entry-level petrol engine.
It’s this engine, known as the TCe 90, that we’d choose with the Clio, and it also uses a six-speed manual gearbox. It’s £3,500 cheaper than the hybrid model, and with prices starting from £17,795 represents great value for money.
Cupra Formentor
Cupra is a brand that continues to grow, with many of its sales being of the coupe-styled Formentor crossover. It’s the first all-new model since Cupra split from Seat, and is available with a broad choice of engines and hybrid models.
But if you want a manual version, the entry-level 148bhp 1.5-litre petrol engine is what you’ll need. The Formentor looks the part inside and out and is generously equipped as well.
Toyota Aygo X
Toyota now predominantly sells hybrid cars, but acknowledges the need to make a cheaper car for its customers, with that model being the Aygo X. It’s a compact city car that’s ideal for new drivers owing to its easy-to-live-with size and low running costs.
Though a CVT automatic model is available, most Aygo X customers opt for the standard five-speed manual gearbox.
Nissan Qashqai
The Nissan Qashqai continues to sell in huge numbers, and a key part of its appeal is the extensive range of versions available. So while you can get this family SUV as a full hybrid, you can still get it with a regular 1.3-litre petrol engine, which is available with a six-speed manual gearbox.
The Qashqai is generously-equipped and packs a spacious interior that is ideal for family duties.
Porsche 718 Cayman
It’s surprising just how many sports cars can’t be had with a manual gearbox these days, but Porsche continues to make sure purists have this option, including on the 911. The firm’s flagship sports car gets a unique seven-speed manual gearbox – adding an extra gear for long-distance and faster driving.
You can get a manual gearbox on the majority of 911 models, from the standard 911 up to its outrageous GT3.
