Which Mazdas Are Still Made With Manual Transmission?

The decline of manual transmissions is a hot topic among automobile enthusiasts. While industry experts cite low consumer demand and cost considerations as reasons for their disappearance, driving purists argue that automakers are sacrificing performance and driving experience in the process.

Mazda sees both perspectives and remains committed to offering manual transmissions in its vehicles as it builds performance-oriented cars for driving enthusiasts. The Mazda MX-5 Miata and the Mazda3 Hatchback remain popular choices for drivers wanting a manual transmission.

Join us as we look into why the manual transmission has lagged in popularity and discover the enduring thrill of traditional gear shifting.

2025 Mazda Models With Manual Transmissions

Mazda introduced the MX-5 Miata in 1989 with great success as a two-seater roadster with fun driving dynamics, thanks in large part to its robust engine, manual transmission, and light frame. The 2025 MX-5 Miata carries on that legacy with even more power, exceptional driving dynamics, and a manual transmission.

Mazda makes its MX-5 Miata in four standard trims and two RF models. Every model comes with a manual transmission as standard, and only two models — the MX-5 Grand Touring and the MX-5 Miata RF Grand Touring — have the option for automatic transmission.

The MX-5 Miata has a 181-horsepower SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter I-4 engine with dual overhead cams and variable valve timing technology. The manual transmission gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg on surface roads and 34 mpg on the highway, while the automatic transmission sees a slight increase to 35 mpg on the freeway.

The Mazda3 debuted in 2004 and was offered in a compact sedan and hatchback style. Over 20 years later, the Mazda3 continues to enjoy strong support from drivers who crave performance without sacrificing efficiency.

The 2025 Mazda3 Hatchback comes in seven trims with various equipment packages. The 2.5 S Premium trim comes equipped with a manual transmission and is powered by Mazda’s SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter I-4 engine. The SKYACTIV-MT six-speed manual transmission delivers the connected driving that thrill seekers crave.

This powertrain produces 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque. With a manual transmission, the Mazda3 Hatchback gets EPA-estimated ratings of 26 mpg in the city, 36 mpg on the highway, and 30 mpg combined. When you compare the manual transmission to its automatic counterparts, you see a slight difference. The local driving rating rises to 27 mpg, while the highway driving dips to 35 mpg, and the combined rating stays the same.

Unfortunately, the sedan version of the Mazda3 doesn’t offer a manual transmission. However, the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim does come with paddle shifters, the modern bridge to the manual transmission. Paddle shifters are essentially levers on the steering wheel that let you manually shift gears while driving.

Key Features That Appeal to Manual Transmission Drivers

Anyone who favors a stick shift over an automatic transmission most likely feels like their car is an extension of themselves while driving. When you drive a manual, your senses tune to the car, and you can feel it respond to your commands. This kind of connection is the main reason the MX-5 Miata remains a favorite among manual transmission fans.

There are additional benefits to driving a manual transmission, such as using the engine to slow your vehicle instead of wearing your brakes. Manual transmissions also have a reputation for their durability, and with fewer moving parts, they cost less to maintain.

Paddle shifters are a great option for drivers who haven’t been taught to use a manual transmission, as they connect you to the vehicle by allowing you to change gears on the fly. You don’t have to step on a clutch or turn on manual mode. Instead, you toggle the paddle shifter up and down to make the transmission respond.

Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 — Are Manuals Still Available?

Unfortunately, the Mazda CX-5 and CX-50 don’t have a manual transmission option. The CX-5 offered a manual transmission up until the 2016 model year. We can infer that consumer preference drove this decision, as SUV enthusiasts have different needs and driving styles that don’t align with a manual transmission.

We can say the same for the Mazda6 and Mazda2. People purchase a vehicle to suit their needs, and many sedan and SUV owners have families and aren’t looking for a thrilling driving experience when shuttling kids to soccer or making grocery runs.

Finding a Manual Mazda at Sport Mazda South

If you’re searching for a manual transmission, our team at Sport Mazda South can help. The best way to find a Mazda manual transmission is to browse our online inventory. You can quickly see a vehicle’s transmission type while searching from the comfort of your home.

You can always visit our Orlando, Florida, showroom and speak with one of our friendly, knowledgeable experts. They can quickly identify the models that meet your needs and show them to you. If you know the model you want and we don’t have it in stock, our representative can find a nearby car or custom order the vehicle with all your preferred options.

We might also have a certified preowned (CPO) model with a manual transmission that meets your criteria. All our CPO vehicles undergo rigorous inspections and testing to ensure quality, performance, and reliability.

Find Your Dream Mazda With a Manual Transmission at Sport Mazda South Today

Mazda always puts the driving experience first when building a car. The decline in manual transmission popularity may turn other manufacturers away from making them, but Mazda knows that driving enthusiasts aren’t going away either.

At Sport Mazda South in Orlando, Florida, we have an expansive inventory of Mazda MX-5 Miatas, MX-5 Miata RFs, and Mazda3 Hatchbacks equipped with manual transmissions at competitive prices. We strongly recommend you browse our online inventory, but you should act fast. These models move quickly, and we don’t want you to miss out on your dream vehicle.