Manuals Becoming Rare

Fading Away

Each year, spotting a new car with a manual transmission becomes trickier. Long gone are the days when every car came with a manual as standard. In fact, a recent study highlights that the number of models with manual gearboxes has plummeted, declining by 57% over the past decade. It might just make auto enthusiasts shed a tear.

Current Trends

The research took place in the UK, looking closely at the top 30 car brands. Back in 2015, there were 192 different models offering manual transmissions. Fast forward to 2025, and that number has fallen to a mere 82. If things keep going like this, manual transmissions could go the way of the dodo by 2037.

A major shift to electric vehicles (EVs) isn’t helping keep manuals alive. Manufacturers like Mini and Land Rover have ditched manuals entirely in favor of automatic transmissions. They’ve joined the ranks of brands like Lexus, Mercedes, Tesla, and Volvo, which no longer offer manual options either.

Who’s Holding On

Despite the trend, Volkswagen is holding on to the manual tradition stronger than most, with seven models still available with a stick shift. They lead the pack, followed by Citroen and Ford, each offering six models with manual gears. Not far behind are auto brands like Dacia, Hyundai, Mazda, and Skoda, each supporting five manual models.

Driving Experience

Driving a manual transmission car is an experience cherished by many car enthusiasts. There’s an unmistakable connection between car and driver that automatics just can’t replicate. The tactile feel of shifting gears gives off a sense of control and involvement. When comparing driving experiences, manual transmission cars often provide a more engaging drive than their automatic counterparts.

For instance, a Volkswagen Golf with a manual transmission feels lively on the road. Compare this to an automatic, where the drive might feel a bit more detached, like watching someone else do all the fun parts. Even though modern automatics are smoother and more efficient, the hands-on nature of a manual just connects differently.

Looking Ahead

With the automotive market’s push toward electric and more premium vehicles, the manual gearbox might not be the standard choice much longer. Automated gearboxes are becoming expected rather than an upscale option. However, for those who still crave the manual driving connection, brands like Volkswagen, Ford, and a few others still offer a chance to enjoy the three-pedal setup.

While it seems manuals could disappear, there’s a sense of hope among enthusiasts that the spirit of the manual gearbox will live on, either through niche models or perhaps through some new technology that brings back driver engagement in electric cars.