5 Of The Most Affordable Manual Cars You Can Buy New In 2026

Key Points:

• Manual transmissions now account for only 1.3% of new car sales in the U.S., down dramatically from 34.6% in 1980, due to advances in automatic transmission efficiency and performance.
• The 2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI offers a six-speed manual option with better fuel economy, a 228-hp turbocharged engine, and a price of $35,020, featuring sporty performance and upscale amenities.
• The 2026 Subaru WRX Base trim, priced at $33,690, includes a turbocharged 271-hp engine with all-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission, delivering strong acceleration and handling.
• The 2026 Honda Civic Si, priced at $32,690, is manual-only with a 200-hp turbocharged engine, sport-tuned features, and is noted as America’s best-selling manual transmission vehicle in 2024.
• The Toyota GR86 and Mazda MX-5 Miata round out affordable sporty manual options, with the GR86 priced under $35,000 offering rear-wheel drive and a 228-hp flat-four, while the MX-5 Miata is the most affordable at $31,665, emphasizing driving enjoyment with a 181-hp engine and lightweight design.