Like hand-written thank-you notes and dim sum servers pushing carts of food for diners to order from, a premium manual-transmission (MT) vehicle is a rare thing nowadays. Thankfully, a few manufacturers still offer MT options for 2026. Here are the best new models to consider if you’re a staunch MT loyalist—or if you want to pass the skill down to future drivers in your family.
Easy-Driving Options
Acura Integra Type S
The Acura Integra Elite A-Spec MT sedan is stylish, versatile, and easy to drive. Starting at $50,310, it offers a light clutch pedal, 200 horsepower, and nimble handling for a front-wheel-drive sedan. For a more exclusive Integra variant that will hold its value while providing more fun, power, and even better handling, consider the 300+ horsepower Integra Type S.
Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing starts at just under $80,000
If you want even more power in a compact sedan package, the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing pairs a 6-speed MT with a 3.6L twin-turbo V6 producing 472 horsepower.
If power isn’t a priority but pure driving fun is, the Mazda MX-5 Miata is an excellent choice. It’s also available as a convertible, though it only seats two and offers limited cargo capacity due to its compact size.
BMW to the Rescue
We salute BMW for continuing to offer MTs in several of their most desirable models, which aligns perfectly with their “Ultimate Driving Machine” mantra. These include the M2 coupe, M3 sedan , and M4 coupe.
M2 coupe starting at $85,179
M3 sedan starting at $99,179
M4 coupe starting at $101,415
All three vehicles feature the same twin-turbo inline six-cylinder engine paired with a 6-speed MT producing 473 horsepower and serving up thrilling, fiery power (0–100 km/h in roughly 4.2 seconds). The best part is you control the power delivery with your feet and right hand, which makes driving these BMWs even more fun and rewarding. Furthermore, choosing the M3 or M4 in MT will knock several thousand dollars off their respective starting prices versus automatic options.
V8 Muscle
2026 Cadillac CTS-V Blackwing
The holy trinity of a rumbly V8 engine, rear-wheel drive, and a manual transmission is now a rare formula—one that only American automakers still offer new. The Cadillac CTS-V Blackwing pairs a 6-speed MT with a 6.2L supercharged V8 engine that produces 668 horsepower and 659 lb-ft of torque. For all that power plus a host of premium interior features, it starts at a reasonable $117,080 and includes a technology called No Lift Shift (NLS), which allows drivers to shift gears without lifting off the gas pedal—enabling faster acceleration.
Ford Mustang GT
We can’t ignore the recently redesigned Ford Mustang GT, which we drove and loved. Even though the Mustang isn’t traditionally perceived as a premium nameplate, it’s nevertheless an icon. Its naturally aspirated V8 produces one of the best exhaust notes ever, making every rev a joy. You can select from four distinct exhaust volumes and also get a user-friendly infotainment system, comfortable seating, and lots of available factory options that make it a de facto premium vehicle when fully optioned. A convertible variant can also be paired with its precise 6-speed MT for even more summer fun.
Mustang Dark Horse
For a meaner, more exclusive Mustang, consider the Dark Horse model that offers marginally more power and distinct styling.
Exotic Options
Lotus Emira V6 SE
For greater exclusivity, the head-turning Lotus Emira V6 SE is a compelling choice. It pairs a 6-speed MT with a 3.5L supercharged V6 that sprints from 0–100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds, starting at $143,000.
911 Carrera T
While less of a head-turner, the 911 Carrera T is surprisingly the only 2026 Porsche still offering a manual transmission. It’s plenty quick, with 388 horsepower and a 0–100 km/h time of 4.7 seconds, though it’s not the most powerful 911 available. Its starting price of $173,000 also makes other MT vehicles better performance bargains, but what you get in return is Porsche prestige and top-notch motorsports engineering that guarantees world-class handling and the ability to drive it hard for extended periods.
