For driving purists in the USA, the allure of a manual transmission remains strong. While automatic gearboxes dominate the modern automotive landscape, particularly in the SUV segment, the engagement and control offered by a stick shift are undeniable. SUVs, traditionally focused on practicality and convenience, are rarely paired with manual transmissions these days. However, for those seeking a blend of SUV versatility and the joy of manual driving, a few exciting options still exist in the 2025 model year. If you’re on the hunt for an SUV that allows you to row your own gears, you’re in luck. Ford and Jeep continue to cater to enthusiasts, offering models that deliver the best of both worlds. Let’s explore the SUVs that keep the manual transmission dream alive in 2025.
2025 Ford Bronco: The Off-Road Icon with a Stick Shift
In a market where manual SUVs are becoming relics of the past, the 2025 Ford Bronco stands out as a beacon for driving enthusiasts. This SUV isn’t just about practicality; it’s about adventure and driver engagement, both on and off the beaten path. Since its revival, the Bronco has captured the hearts of off-road aficionados and those who appreciate a hands-on driving experience, thanks in no small part to its available manual transmission. While perhaps not as extreme in customization as some other off-road brands, the Bronco offers a compelling package of capability and driving fun.
The base 2025 Ford Bronco, starting at $37,995, comes equipped with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost engine. This engine delivers a robust 275 horsepower on regular fuel and bumps up to 300 horsepower with premium fuel. Crucially, a seven-speed manual transmission is standard, allowing drivers to fully exploit the engine’s powerband. While a ten-speed automatic transmission is available for those prioritizing ease of driving, the seven-speed manual remains a popular choice among Bronco buyers who value driver engagement and a more connected feel to the road. Of course, true to its heritage, the 2025 Ford Bronco comes standard with four-wheel drive, ensuring its off-road prowess.
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2025 Jeep Wrangler: The Manual Transmission SUV for Adventure
The Jeep Wrangler is the other prominent SUV in 2025 that proudly offers a manual transmission. Synonymous with off-road capability and open-air freedom, the Wrangler has been a cornerstone of the off-roading community for decades, consistently attracting enthusiasts with its rugged charm and adventurous spirit. A key part of the Wrangler’s appeal is its available six-speed manual transmission, which enhances driver involvement and provides a classic off-road driving experience. The aftermarket for the Jeep Wrangler is massive, ensuring that owners can continually personalize and upgrade their vehicles for even more extreme adventures.
For budget-conscious buyers seeking a new manual SUV, the Jeep Wrangler holds a significant advantage. The base Wrangler Sport model starts at a lower price point than the Bronco, making it a more accessible entry into the world of manual transmission SUVs.
Powering the base Jeep Wrangler Sport is a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 285 horsepower. This power is channeled through a standard six-speed manual transmission and four-wheel drive system. While an eight-speed automatic transmission is offered as an option, it comes at an additional cost, further solidifying the manual transmission as the value-oriented choice for Wrangler enthusiasts.
| 2025 Jeep Wrangler Sport (Base) Specs |
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Manual Transmissions Beyond SUVs: Keeping the Stick Shift Alive
While the SUV segment offers limited manual options, the stick shift is not entirely extinct in the broader automotive market. Manual transmissions are more commonly found in other vehicle categories, offering hope for driving purists. In the pickup truck segment, the Toyota Tacoma remains a notable exception, continuing to offer a manual transmission in its 2025 lineup. Although the Jeep Gladiator, previously available with a manual, has discontinued this option for 2025, the Tacoma ensures that truck enthusiasts seeking manual control still have a choice. Importantly, the manual transmission is often available even in the base trim levels of the Tacoma, making it accessible to a wider range of buyers.
Manual transmissions truly thrive in the sports car segment, where driver engagement is paramount. Enthusiasts who prioritize a connected driving experience often gravitate towards sports cars, which are more likely to offer manual gearboxes than SUVs. Models like the Nissan Z, BMW M series cars, and even performance sedans like the Hyundai Elantra N continue to provide manual transmission options. While automatics might offer quicker acceleration or slightly better fuel economy, the appeal of a manual in these cars is rooted in the sheer joy of driving. Whether your budget allows for a Mazda Miata or a Lotus, the sports car market still caters to those who prefer three pedals and a stick shift.
Characteristics of Manual Transmission SUVs: What to Expect
SUVs equipped with manual transmissions are a rare breed in the US market, and they often come with specific characteristics that set them apart:
- Limited Availability: The selection is very restricted, with only a handful of models offering manual gearboxes.
- Rugged and Off-Road Focused: Manual SUVs are typically designed for off-road adventures, emphasizing durability and capability.
- Potentially Lower Fuel Economy: Manual transmissions in SUVs may result in slightly lower fuel efficiency compared to their automatic counterparts.
- Often More Affordable: Models with manual transmissions are generally priced lower than equivalent models with automatic gearboxes.
Considerations When Choosing a Manual Transmission SUV
If you’re contemplating purchasing an SUV with a manual transmission, consider these key factors before making your decision:
Advantages of Manual Transmission SUVs
- Lower Purchase Price: Manual transmission models typically have a lower base price compared to automatic versions, offering potential cost savings.
- Enhanced Driver Engagement: Manual transmissions provide a more direct and involved driving experience, offering greater control and a stronger connection to the vehicle.
- Potentially Lower Maintenance Costs: In some cases, manual transmissions can be less complex and potentially cheaper to maintain and repair than automatics.
Disadvantages of Manual Transmission SUVs
- Reduced Fuel Efficiency: Manual transmissions may lead to slightly lower fuel economy figures compared to modern automatic transmissions, particularly in SUVs.
- Less Convenient in Traffic: Driving a manual transmission in stop-and-go traffic can be less convenient than an automatic, requiring more driver effort.
- Extremely Limited Selection: The availability of SUVs with manual transmissions in the US is very limited, restricting your choices.
Choosing the Right Manual SUV: Bronco vs. Wrangler
The choice of manual SUVs in the USA boils down to two primary contenders: the Jeep Wrangler and the Ford Bronco. Both offer a manual transmission option alongside an automatic, catering to different preferences. The “best” manual SUV is subjective and depends on individual needs and priorities. The Bronco might appeal to those seeking a blend of modern features and off-road capability, while the Wrangler maintains its iconic, rugged appeal and often comes with a lower starting price.
Reliability of Manual vs. Automatic SUVs
The notion that manual SUVs are inherently more reliable than automatic ones is not necessarily accurate. While automatic transmissions, with their complexity, might have been perceived as more prone to issues in the past, modern automatics are highly advanced and reliable. Maintenance and repair costs for automatics can be higher due to their complexity, but overall reliability depends more on the specific vehicle model and manufacturer’s quality than solely on the type of transmission.
Cost of Manual Transmission SUVs
The price range for new manual SUVs is relatively narrow due to the limited selection. A manual Ford Bronco starts at approximately $37,995, while a Jeep Wrangler with a manual gearbox begins around $32,095 in its base configuration. These prices reflect the entry points for enjoying the unique experience of a manual transmission SUV in 2025.
Sources: Ford, Jeep
