Remember the thrill of perfectly executing a heel-toe downshift? Or the satisfying click of the gear lever as you find the sweet spot? In a world increasingly dominated by automatics, finding a car with a manual transmission can feel like searching for a hidden treasure. But fear not, fellow driving enthusiasts! Even in 2017, there were still some fantastic options for those who prefer to row their own gears. Let’s dive into some of the best cars from that year that offered the engaging experience of a manual gearbox.
What Cars Had Manual Transmissions in 2017? A Broad Overview
The good news is, you weren’t completely out of luck if you wanted a manual in 2017. While the selection wasn’t as vast as it once was, several manufacturers still catered to the driving purist. From sporty coupes to practical sedans and even a few SUVs, there were options to suit different tastes and needs. Let’s explore some of the highlights.
Sports Cars and Coupes with Manuals in 2017
This is where you’d find the most readily available manual transmissions. Think about it: a sports car begs for driver involvement, right? Here are a few standouts:
- Mazda MX-5 Miata: The quintessential roadster. Lightweight, nimble, and an absolute joy to drive with its slick-shifting manual.
- Ford Mustang: Whether you opted for the EcoBoost or the GT, the Mustang offered a manual transmission for those who wanted to feel the power.
- Chevrolet Camaro: Similar to the Mustang, the Camaro provided a manual option across various trim levels, letting you unleash its performance potential.
- Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86 (GT86): These twins were designed for driving fun, and the manual transmission was a key part of that equation.
- Nissan 370Z: A classic sports car with a powerful engine and a rewarding manual gearbox.
Tip: When searching for a used car, be sure to check the specific trim level. Sometimes, the manual transmission was only available on certain trims.
Practical Cars with Manual Transmissions in 2017: More Than Just Fun
Who says you can’t have fun and practicality? Several sedans and hatchbacks still offered manual transmissions in 2017, providing an engaging driving experience without sacrificing everyday usability. Were you surprised?
Sedans and Hatchbacks with Manuals in 2017
- Honda Civic: The Civic, especially in Si trim, was a popular choice for those seeking a sporty and reliable daily driver with a manual.
- Volkswagen Golf/GTI: The Golf and GTI offered a refined and engaging driving experience, with the GTI being the sportier option.
- Subaru Impreza: Even with all-wheel drive, the Impreza offered a manual transmission for those who wanted more control.
- Ford Focus: The Focus, particularly the ST model, provided a fun and engaging driving experience with its manual transmission.
- Mazda3: Known for its sporty handling, the Mazda3 offered a manual transmission in certain trims.
These cars proved that you didn’t have to sacrifice practicality for the joy of driving a manual. They were perfect for commuting, running errands, and still having fun on the open road.
Interesting Fact: The availability of manual transmissions has steadily declined over the years. In the 1980s, a large percentage of cars had manual transmissions. Now, it’s a much smaller number.
