"Stick shift" is a dying feature in all vehicles, even dedicated sports cars. However, there is still hope for car lovers who want to choose their own gear. For example, the 2022 Chevrolet Camaro 1LT and 2023 Subaru BRZ come standard with his 3-pedal setup. Check out some new cheap cars with sports car DNA and manual transmissions that won't break the bank.
2022 Chevrolet Camaro 1LT
2022 Ford Mustang Ecoboost
2023 Subaru BRZ
2023 Toyota GR86
2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Anyone still offering a manual transmission?
Many makes and models don't offer manual transmissions in their current American market lineup, but some options are happy to host a three-pedal setup. For example, some inexpensive sports cars, such as the 2023 Subaru BRZ and the 2022 Chevrolet Camaro 1LT, have 6-speed manual transmissions. In fact, all five of his best cheap sports cars under $30,000, as picked by US News, offer the option to row a boat.
Subaru BRZ | Subaru
Additionally, many of the higher end sports and muscle cars still offer manual transmissions. For example, Dodge's final Challenger SRT Hellcat model year sees the return of his 6-speed as a swan song option. Also, the Toyota GR Supra 3.0 offers his three-pedal setup for fans who don't want a lightning-fast automatic.
Does the Camaro have a manual transmission?
The Chevrolet Camaro has a 6-speed manual transmission. Even better, fans who want a cheaper sports car option can opt for his Chevy Camaro 1LT V6 for 2022 instead of his 275-horsepower four-cylinder mill. The LT1 V6 option starts at around $27,695 and makes a far more enthusiastic 335 hp from the 3.6L 6-cylinder engine. Whatever engine a potential owner wants, the Camaro has a manual option.
Chevrolet Camaro LT1 | General Motors
Does EcoBoost come with a manual?
The Ford Mustang EcoBoost didn't get the 3-pedal application in the 7th generation Mustang lineup, but the current EcoBoost does offer a manual transmission. For example, the 2022 Ford Mustang Ecoboost with his standard 6-speed gearbox starts at around $27,470, according to US News. Although more expensive than the entry-level Camaro, the EcoBoost is cheaper than the Camaro 1LT V6 and produces 310 horsepower from a more efficient turbocharged 4-cylinder mill.
The 2023 Subaru BRZ comes with a manual transmission or optional automatic for owners who don't want to shift gears. Additionally, with a starting price of around $28,585, the BRZ is an inexpensive sports car for the new car market. Subaru's tiny sports coupe doubles as a driver's car. A short wheelbase, an engaging driving experience, and a return to the basics focused on sports car ownership.
In addition to the BRZ, the Toyota GR86 has a 6-speed option for fun driving and smile-inducing slides. Also, the GR86 shares his 228-horsepower horizontal four-cylinder engine in his BRZ, so the choice comes down to badge and chassis stiffness preferences. The Toyota has a slightly sharper, stiffer ride.
Is the MX-5 all manual?
The Mazda MX-5 Miata has provided a manual for every model year for over 20 years. This is great news for enthusiasts looking for a small, sharp sports car with an engaging driving experience. The 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata makes only 181 horsepower but manages about 34 mpg on the highway and has two convertible tops.
Manual transmissions are dying to make room for easy-to-use, quick-shifting automatics. The automotive industry is shifting gears from an aggressive driving experience to a lower level of driver engagement. Additionally, the latest generation of electric vehicles (EVs) is playing an increasing role for autonomous and semi-autonomous systems. We are closer to self-driving cars than mainstream driver's cars.
