5 New 2026 Cars That Still Let You Row Your Own Gears

2026 Manual Cars: Manual transmissions might feel like a dying breed in today’s automatic-obsessed, tech-loaded car market — but guess what? They’re not extinct yet. In fact, for driving purists in the U.S., 2026 still brings a handful of brand-new cars that proudly let you shift gears the old-school way.

From affordable sports cars to six-figure performance machines, these rides prove that manuals aren’t just about nostalgia — they’re about control, engagement, and pure driving fun. If you’re the type who believes driving should be an experience (not just a commute), here are five new 2026 cars that still come with a stick.

1. 2026 Nissan Z – Affordable Thrills, Six-Speed Style

• The starting price is $42,970.
• 3.0L V6 twin-turbo engine (400 HP)
• The rear-wheel drive system

The Nissan Z is proof that affordable performance cars with a manual still exist. The 2026 model rocks a six-speed stick that’s smoother and stronger than the one in the old 370Z. Nissan even reinforced it with beefier synchros and better oiling to handle that twin-turbo punch.

Why it’s awesome: It’s the best manual Nissan has ever built. Plus, the Heritage Edition brings back the iconic Midnight Purple paint.

2. 2026 Honda Civic Type R – The FWD King

• The starting price is $45,895.
• 3.15 HP, 2.0L Turbo I4 engine
• Front-wheel drive as the power source

Honda refuses to give up on driving fun, and the Civic Type R proves it. With its slick six-speed manual and rev-happy turbo engine, this hot hatch is the ultimate front-wheel-drive performance car in the U.S.

Why it’s awesome: The shifter is buttery smooth, the steering is razor-sharp, and yes — it’s still shockingly quick.

3. 2026 BMW M2 Coupe – The Last of the Bavarian Manuals

• The starting price is $68,200.
• 4.73 horsepower 3.0L Twin-Turbo I6 engine
• The rear-wheel drive system

BMW used to offer manuals everywhere, but now the M2 is one of the last keepers of the flame. With its powerful S58 engine and perfectly balanced chassis, this compact coupe is a daily driver that doubles as a track toy.

Why it’s awesome: It’s fast, fun, and functional — with real back seats for once.

4. 2026 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing – America’s Super Sedan

• Starting Price: $97,600
• 6.2L V8 supercharged engine (668 HP)
• The rear-wheel drive system

Forget Teslas — this is American muscle in luxury clothing. The CT5-V Blackwing comes with one of the best V8s ever and a six-speed stick that makes it a true enthusiast’s dream.

Why it’s awesome: It’s the only Cadillac you can buy new with a manual — and it just happens to be the wildest one.

5. 2026 Porsche 911 Carrera T – The Ultimate Driver’s Porsche

• $143,700 is the starting price.
• Engine: 3.0L Flat-6 Turbo (388 HP)
• The rear-wheel drive system

The Carrera T, if you can afford it, is the pinnacle of contemporary manual sports cars. It borrows engagement tricks from the GT3, packs a lightweight setup, and gives you Porsche perfection with a six-speed that’s better than the PDK auto any day.

Why it’s awesome: It’s the last true “driver’s 911” you can buy new with a stick.

The Significance of Manuals in 2026

On paper, automatics are faster, but manuals allow you to stay in touch with the vehicle.  They transform every back road into a playground and every interstate on-ramp into an exciting experience. For American enthusiasts, these five cars prove that shifting gears by hand isn’t going anywhere — at least not yet.

Final Thought

Although they could be uncommon in 2026 manual transmissions are still very much in use. These vehicles, which range from luxury legends like the Porsche 911 Carrera T to more cheap icons like the Nissan Z, demonstrate that shifting gears is still very much in vogue in the United States.  For a true driving enthusiast having one of these stick-shift vehicles is about more than simply transportation it’s about control, passion and preserving the experience of driving.

FAQ’s

Q1: Are manual cars still popular in the USA?

A: Not as much as before — only about 1–2% of new cars sold in the U.S. are manuals. But among enthusiasts demand is still strong especially for sports cars.

Q2: Why are manual cars disappearing?

A: Automatics are faster more fuel-efficient and easier for everyday drivers. But enthusiasts love manuals for their control and engagement.

Q3: Is it worth buying a manual in 2026?

A: Absolutely — if you love driving. Manuals often have better resale value among enthusiasts and are seen as future collectibles.

Q4: Which 2026 manual car is the best all around buy?

A: An amazing car that is fun to drive is the Honda Civic Type R. A Porsche 911 Carrera T is the epitome of beauty and majesty.

Also Read: The 2026 Nissan LEAF Is Here With 300 Miles of Range — But Good Luck Getting One