The Annual Manual Review

At the start of each year we’re told that a certain sector of car has had its day… the gas-guzzler and the diesel immediately spring to mind. Yet spare a thought for the manual, whose predicted removal from our roads has been spoken about for decades. Yet with every passing era, the manual gearbox – complete with humble clutch pedal and the occasional grinding of gears – continues to thrive, and here’s why.

For years, the message seemed clear: the future was automatic. Electric vehicles don’t need gears, city traffic makes constant shifting a chore, and modern automatics are more efficient than ever. Yet something interesting continues to bubble on the surface of the nation’s tarmacked roads, and that’s the continued thrill of manual gearbox cars.

In the UK, manual cars still account for around 30% of new registrations, and while that’s far lower than a decade ago, for many enthusiasts the thrill of changing gears not only creates more exciting driving; it’s also become something of a badge of honour.

Why? Because driving a manual demands engagement. You can feel the road, sense the car’s rhythm, and take full control of power delivery. It’s a tactile, mechanical connection that’s often lost in the smooth, seamless surge of an automatic. For petrolheads, that involvement is the very essence of driving.

Brands have taken note. Mazda, for instance, continues to offer manual versions of its MX-5 roadster – a model that’s almost become shorthand for pure driving pleasure. Toyota, too, has reintroduced manual options on performance models like the GR Supra, responding directly to customer demand. Even MINI still offers stick-shift variants for those who prefer a hands-on drive.

And it’s not just about performance. A manual gearbox can also mean cheaper servicing, lower purchase prices and, for used buyers, a wider range of affordable options. Insurance can even be lower for manual cars, depending on the model.

Of course, there’s no denying the convenience of an automatic, especially in stop-start traffic. And for EVs, the argument is academic – there’s no gearbox to shift. However, as electric cars become more common, there’s growing appreciation for the analog simplicity of a manual petrol or diesel engine. For some, it’s a small act of rebellion against the sanitised future of motoring.

Five magnificent motors that thrive on a manual gearbox.

• Mazda MX-5 (from £28,000) – The classic two-seat roadster with a crisp six-speed manual as standard.
• Toyota GR Yaris (from £44,000) – A rally-bred pocket rocket that insists on driver involvement.
• MINI Cooper S (from £28,000) – The ultimate hot hatch.
• Honda Civic Type R (from £49,000) – A modern performance hero that refuses to go automatic.
• Porsche 911 Carrera T (from £110,000) – Proof that even at the top end, there’s still a place for a proper manual sports car.