2019: The Year of the Manual Transmission
In an era where automatic transmissions are becoming increasingly popular, it’s refreshing to see that manual transmissions are still alive and well. In fact, many car enthusiasts argue that manual transmissions offer a more engaging and rewarding driving experience. If you’re in the market for a new car with a manual transmission, here are a few of the best options available in 2019.
Honda Civic Si
The Honda Civic Si is a perennial favorite among car enthusiasts, and for good reason. It’s a well-rounded car that offers a great combination of performance, handling, and fuel economy. The Si’s 1.5-liter turbocharged engine produces 205 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque, which is plenty of power to get you up to speed quickly. The six-speed manual transmission is smooth and precise, and the car’s handling is sharp and responsive. On top of that, the Si is relatively affordable, making it a great value for your money.
Subaru WRX STI
If you’re looking for a more hardcore driving experience, the Subaru WRX STI is a great choice. This all-wheel-drive sedan is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed manual transmission is one of the best in the business, and the car’s handling is simply superb. The WRX STI is also surprisingly practical, with a roomy interior and a decent amount of cargo space. However, it’s worth noting that the WRX STI is more expensive than the Civic Si, and its fuel economy is not as good.
Volkswagen Golf GTI
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is another great option for car enthusiasts who want a manual transmission. This hot hatch is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed manual transmission is slick and precise, and the car’s handling is sharp and responsive. The Golf GTI is also very well-equipped, with features like a touchscreen infotainment system, heated seats, and a sunroof. However, the Golf GTI is more expensive than the Civic Si and the WRX STI, and its fuel economy is not as good.
Ford Focus ST
The Ford Focus ST is a great choice for car enthusiasts who want a manual transmission and a hatchback body style. This hot hatch is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 252 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed manual transmission is one of the best in the business, and the car’s handling is sharp and responsive. The Focus ST is also very well-equipped, with features like a touchscreen infotainment system, heated seats, and a sunroof. However, the Focus ST is more expensive than the Civic Si and the WRX STI, and its fuel economy is not as good.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
If you’re looking for a pure driving experience, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is the car for you. This lightweight roadster is powered by a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed manual transmission is one of the best in the business, and the car’s handling is simply superb. The MX-5 Miata is also very affordable, making it a great value for your money. However, it’s worth noting that the MX-5 Miata is not very practical, with a tiny trunk and a cramped interior.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a new car with a manual transmission, there are plenty of great options available in 2019. The Honda Civic Si, Subaru WRX STI, Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Focus ST, and Mazda MX-5 Miata are all excellent choices that offer different combinations of performance, handling, and fuel economy. Ultimately, the best car for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
