About this episode
Looking ahead to 2026, this episode dives into the exciting lineup of new cars that still offer manual transmissions. Ian and Brendan discuss a variety of models, from the Acura Integra and BMW M series to the Cadillac CT5 V Blackwing and Honda Civic Type R. They highlight the importance of manual options in today's automotive landscape and share their personal favorites, including the Hyundai Elantra N and Jeep Wrangler. The conversation reflects on the dwindling availability of manuals and celebrates the brands that continue to cater to driving enthusiasts.
Happy New Year from the hosts of the Life Plus Cars Podcast!
To kick off 2026, hosts Brendan and Ian run through the list of every new car that you can buy with manual transmission. That's right, folks- you can still buy a car with a stick shift in 2026! Which cars, do you ask? It may be more than you think!
Plus, is Brendan getting any closer to convincing Ian to buy a new Jeep Wrangler?
Listen in to find out...
What do you think, listener? Which of these brand new stick shift cars are your favorite? Do you think you will buy one of these cars in 2026? Email us with your car stories at [email protected]
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Update: New episodes will now be published on Thursdays instead of Tuesdays.
Super Duty
"Well, maybe back in the 60s. It was wouldn't it be nice to get like a Ford super-duty with like a five-speed again Right, just a big."
Super Duty is a term used for Ford's bigger and stronger trucks that can carry heavier loads and do tougher jobs than regular trucks.
Super Duty refers to Ford's line of heavy-duty trucks designed for more demanding tasks than regular trucks. These vehicles are built to handle larger payloads and tougher conditions, making them ideal for work and towing.
Power Stroke
"Right, just a big. Yeah with the big power stroke big diesel of manual What do I know? What do I know?"
Power Stroke is a type of diesel engine made by Ford. These engines are strong and are often used in trucks to help them carry heavy loads.
Power Stroke is a brand name for Ford's line of diesel engines, known for their high torque and power, making them popular in heavy-duty trucks. They are designed for performance and durability, especially in towing and hauling applications.
Acura Integra
"So number one on the list, it's gonna go alphabetical the Acura Integra... I like the looks of the Integra"
The Acura Integra is a small car that is fun to drive and is known for being reliable. It has a version that comes with a manual transmission, which means you can change gears yourself instead of the car doing it automatically.
The Acura Integra is a compact car that has gained a reputation for its sporty performance and reliability. It is known for its engaging driving experience, especially in manual transmission variants.
dual clutch
"We don't mean dual clutch or any of that BS or paddle shifts. We're talking three-pedal qualified manual stick shift in your hand like real."
A dual-clutch transmission is a type of automatic transmission that can change gears very quickly. It uses two clutches to help the car shift gears faster than regular automatic transmissions.
A dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is an automated transmission that uses two separate clutches for odd and even gear sets, allowing for faster gear changes and improved performance compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
two liter four cylinder
"It's got the two liter four cylinder and a base price 38 grand..."
A two liter four cylinder engine is a type of car engine that is small but can still provide good power while using less fuel. It has four parts called cylinders that help it run.
A two liter four cylinder engine refers to an engine with a total displacement of two liters and four cylinders. This configuration is known for balancing power and fuel efficiency, making it popular in compact cars.
horsepower
"...you can get up to 320 horsepower with these things. I mean, oh god, it's awesome..."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful a car's engine is. More horsepower usually means the car can go faster and perform better.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, often used to describe the output of engines. In cars, higher horsepower typically means better acceleration and overall performance.
BMW M2
"So anyway, yeah, I'm w in 2026. All right, and you can get the M2 the M3 the M4..."
The M2 is a sporty version of a small BMW car that is fun to drive and has a powerful engine.
The BMW M2 is a high-performance variant of the 2 Series, known for its sporty handling and powerful engine. It is designed for driving enthusiasts who seek a compact sports car experience.
M4
"the M2 the M3 the M4 and..."
The M4 is a sporty coupe version of BMW's 4 Series, offering a powerful engine and great handling.
The BMW M4 is the high-performance variant of the 4 Series, designed for those who want a sporty coupe experience. It combines luxury features with powerful performance.
BMW M3
"the M2 the M3 the M4..."
The M3 is a fast and sporty version of BMW's 3 Series car, known for being fun to drive.
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the 3 Series, renowned for its balance of luxury and sportiness. It features powerful engines and precise handling, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
BMW Z4
"There's still keeping the Z4 with a manual a tried and true manual is still available in all of those cars..."
The Z4 is a sporty BMW convertible car that is fun to drive and looks good.
The BMW Z4 is a sporty convertible that offers a blend of performance and luxury. It is known for its agile handling and stylish design.
inline six
"And they all pack the three-liter i6 the inline six with a six-speed..."
An inline six engine has six cylinders lined up in a row, which helps it run smoothly and efficiently.
An inline six (i6) engine is a type of engine configuration where six cylinders are arranged in a straight line. This design is known for its smooth operation and good balance.
six-speed
"the three-liter i6 the inline six with a six-speed. That's how you do all rear-wheel drive..."
A six-speed transmission is a system that helps the car change gears smoothly and can improve how fast and efficiently it drives.
A six-speed transmission refers to a type of gearbox that has six gears, allowing for better acceleration and fuel efficiency compared to fewer gears.
torque
"...Big torque. Oh..."
Torque is how much pulling power an engine has. Higher torque means the car can speed up faster, especially from a stop.
Torque is a measure of rotational force, which in cars translates to how quickly an engine can accelerate. It's crucial for performance, especially in terms of off-the-line speed.
rear-wheel drive
"...the Manuals can only be had with the rear-wheel drive models like these are the true enthusiast spec..."
Rear-wheel drive means that the back wheels of the car get the power from the engine. This can make the car handle better and feel more sporty.
Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is a vehicle configuration where the engine's power is sent to the rear wheels. This setup often provides better handling and balance, especially in performance cars.
BMW New Bmws
"...like alpha male, but I will say this I think the new BMWs Rear ends on their cars are some of the best we'..."
The BMW New Class is a new line of cars from BMW that focuses on modern looks and smart technology. They want to keep their reputation for making great performance cars while appealing to new buyers.
The BMW New Class refers to a new generation of BMW vehicles that emphasize modern design and advanced technology. This line aims to redefine the brand's identity while maintaining its performance heritage.
manual transmission
"if you're looking for a tried and true manual that's really fun to drive that by today's standard"
A manual transmission is a way to change gears in a car by using a stick and a pedal. It gives you more control over how the car drives.
A manual transmission is a type of gearbox that requires the driver to manually shift gears using a clutch pedal and gear stick. It offers more control over the vehicle's power and performance.
Cadillac CT5
"That's right folks for in the CT5-V Blackwing you can get a tried and true six speed manual."
The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is a fast and powerful car that you can get with a manual stick shift, which is rare for modern cars. It's designed for people who love to drive.
The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is a high-performance version of the CT5 sedan, featuring a powerful engine and advanced handling capabilities. It offers a manual transmission option, appealing to driving enthusiasts.
V6 engine
"Get a v8 or v6 with big power and a manual."
A V6 engine is a type of engine that has six cylinders arranged in a V shape. It's a popular choice for cars because it provides a good mix of power and fuel efficiency.
A V6 engine consists of six cylinders arranged in a 'V' configuration. It offers a good balance of power and efficiency, making it a common choice for many vehicles.
V8 engine
"Get a v8 or v6 with big power and a manual."
A V8 engine is a type of engine that has eight cylinders arranged in a V shape. It's powerful and often found in fast cars, giving them a lot of strength and speed.
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder engine configuration arranged in a 'V' shape. It is known for delivering high power and torque, making it popular in performance and luxury vehicles.
Ford Bronco
"... offers a couple which Really is to which is the Bronco and the Mustang The only two vehicles they offer..."
Ford Mustang
"you can get the Bronco and then of course the Mustang..."
The Ford Bronco is a tough SUV that can handle rough terrains. It's popular for outdoor adventures and has been updated recently to include new technology.
The Ford Bronco is a rugged SUV known for its off-road capabilities and classic design. It has been reintroduced in recent years with modern features while retaining its adventurous spirit.
Ford Super
"...t's a shame It wouldn't it be nice to get like a Ford super duty with like a five-speed again, right? Just a..."
The Ford Super Duty Lariat Tremor is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and drive off-road. It's built for people who need a strong and reliable vehicle for tough jobs.
The Ford Super Duty Lariat Tremor is a heavy-duty pickup truck designed for serious towing and off-road capabilities. It combines luxury features with rugged performance, making it a popular choice for those who need a tough workhorse.
Jeep Wrangler
"... there's some right that They will only take the Wrangler a Bronco or whatever with a manual off-road. So y..."
The Jeep Wrangler is a tough car that can drive over rocks and through mud easily. People love it because it's great for adventures and exploring the outdoors.
The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic off-road vehicle known for its rugged design and exceptional capability on challenging terrains. Its significance lies in its long-standing reputation as a symbol of adventure and freedom, making it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts.
Honda Civic
"...mance stands from Ford to Honda which we have the Civic Si and the Civic type R That's right. So the Hon..."
The Honda Civic is a small car that is very dependable and good on gas. It comes in different versions, some of which are sportier and faster than others.
The Honda Civic is a compact car that has been a staple in the automotive market for decades, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and sporty variants like the Civic Si and Type R. It is often discussed for its balance of performance and practicality, appealing to a wide range of drivers.
zero to sixty
"Oh, it's crazy. I mean looking at the specs here like the Type R is zero to sixty and five point three seconds."
Zero to sixty is a way to measure how fast a car can go from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's often used to show how powerful a car is.
Zero to sixty time measures how quickly a car can accelerate from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a common performance metric used to evaluate a car's speed and power.
Hyundai Elantra N
"...I was just gonna say that out of this entire list the next one on it is a Hyundai Elantra N..."
The Hyundai Elantra N is a sportier version of the regular Elantra. It has a more powerful engine and special features that make it more fun to drive, especially for those who enjoy speed and handling.
The Hyundai Elantra N is a high-performance version of the standard Elantra, featuring a turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension. It's designed for enthusiasts who want a fun and engaging driving experience.
Hyundai Elantra
"... just released some amazing stuff, but I love the Elantra N is a good-looking car It's a good price point"
The Hyundai Elantra is a small car that is affordable and has a nice design. It's a good choice for people looking for a reliable car without spending too much money.
The Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan that has gained popularity for its value, modern design, and advanced technology features. It is often discussed for its balance of affordability and quality, making it a strong contender in the compact car market.
Jeep Gladiator
"but I'm pretty sure you can still get it in the gladiator too, right?"
The Jeep Gladiator is a pickup truck made by Jeep that can go off-road like the Wrangler. It has a truck bed for carrying things, making it useful for both work and play.
The Jeep Gladiator is a mid-size pickup truck that combines the off-road capability of the Wrangler with the utility of a truck bed. It was reintroduced in 2019 and has been well-received for its versatility.
3.6 liter V6
"I think so. Yes bolted to the 3.6 liter v6 tried and true."
The 3.6 liter V6 is an engine type that has six cylinders shaped like a 'V' and is 3.6 liters in size. It's popular because it offers a good mix of power and fuel economy.
The 3.6 liter V6 is a type of engine configuration that features six cylinders arranged in a V shape and has a displacement of 3.6 liters. This engine is known for providing a good balance of power and efficiency.
Lotus Amira
"...ntiful is the lotus now Nice saying it right the Amira. Yeah, that's correct the Amira. Okay, 2026 Amira..."
The Lotus Emira is a new sports car that is very light and fast. It's built for people who love to drive and want a thrilling experience.
The Lotus Emira is a lightweight sports car that represents the brand's return to form, combining performance with everyday usability. It features a mid-engine layout and is designed to deliver an exhilarating driving experience.
mid-engine car
"Boom, that's the big lotus and it's a mid-engine car."
A mid-engine car is one where the engine is placed in the middle of the car, which helps it handle better when driving fast. It's a popular design for sports cars.
A mid-engine car has its engine located near the center of the vehicle, which enhances balance and handling. This layout is common in sports cars for improved performance.
Mazda Mx5 Miata
"Some zoom Mazda hatchback and the MX-5 Miata Thank you Mazda for still making the Miata with a manual. Oh"
The Mazda MX-5, or Miata, is a small sports car that is very light and fun to drive. It's loved by many for its simple design and great handling.
The Mazda MX-5, commonly known as the Miata, is a lightweight two-seat sports car celebrated for its engaging driving experience and classic roadster design. It has a strong following due to its affordability and fun-to-drive nature.
Nissan Z
"...ght. What do we got? So next on this? We got the Nissan Z Ian the Zed Nissan Z Nissan's flagship sports ca..."
The Nissan Z is a new sports car that looks cool and goes really fast. It's part of a long line of Z-cars that many people love for their speed and style.
The Nissan Z is a modern sports car that pays homage to the brand's long history of Z-cars, combining classic styling with contemporary performance. It features a powerful engine and rear-wheel-drive layout, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate both heritage and innovation.
Nissan Murano
"... talk about all the time, but like even their new Murano that's coming out Like what if they just gave it..."
The Nissan Murano is a roomy SUV that looks nice and is comfortable to ride in. It's a good option for families who need space and want a stylish vehicle.
The Nissan Murano is a midsize crossover SUV known for its stylish design and comfortable interior. It is often discussed for its blend of luxury features and practicality, making it a popular choice for families.
Porsche Cayman
"2026 7-8 Cayman, which is the next car on the list Porsche. Thank..."
The Porsche Cayman is a fancy sports car that is fun to drive and looks really cool. It's designed to be fast and sporty while still being comfortable enough for daily use.
The Porsche Cayman is a mid-engine sports car that combines performance with everyday usability, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. Its sleek design and powerful engine options contribute to its reputation as a thrilling yet practical sports car.
Porsche Carrera T
"...get the 2026 718 Cayman and Boxster and the 9-11 Carrera T and the 9-11 GT3 with a manual so the six-speed ..."
The Porsche Carrera GT is a super-fast sports car that is very rare and expensive. It's famous for being one of the best cars to drive because of its amazing speed and handling.
The Porsche Carrera GT is a limited-production supercar known for its exceptional performance and engineering excellence. It features a powerful V10 engine and is celebrated for its driving dynamics, making it a sought-after collector's item.
Porsche Boxster
"...o yes, you can still get the 2026 718 Cayman and Boxster and the 9-11 Carrera T and the 9-11 GT3 with a m..."
Subaru BRZ
"...'re into Scoob DeRuz one more time. We've got the BRZ and the WRX Subis"
The Subaru BRZ is a small sports car that is really fun to drive because it's light and quick. It's designed for people who love the thrill of driving.
The Subaru BRZ is a lightweight sports coupe that focuses on driving dynamics and fun. It features a rear-wheel-drive layout and a balanced chassis, appealing to enthusiasts who prioritize an engaging driving experience.
Subaru WRX
"...he same offerings. I think the only difference is WRX has all-wheel drive, right? Yeah, the BRZ is a p..."
The Subaru WRX is a sporty car that can handle tough weather and roads because it has all-wheel drive. It's loved by many for being fun to drive and fast.
The Subaru WRX is a performance-oriented compact car known for its all-wheel-drive system and rally-inspired design. It has a strong following among car enthusiasts for its sporty handling and turbocharged engine, making it a popular choice for those seeking excitement in their daily drives.
Subaru Outback
"...g that's a little bit more spicy to drive than an outback Oh, yeah, and they're and they're not that much ..."
The Subaru Outback is a car that can drive well on different types of roads, including rough ones. It's great for families and people who like to go on adventures.
The Subaru Outback is a crossover SUV known for its all-wheel-drive system and versatility, making it a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. It combines the practicality of a wagon with the ruggedness of an SUV, allowing it to handle various terrains comfortably.
Toyota Tacoma
"...o Toyota. I am so proud that they still offer the Tacoma with a manual That's right. That's amazing to me..."
The Toyota Tacoma is a tough truck that can handle rough roads and heavy loads. It's popular because it's reliable and can be used for many different activities.
The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck known for its durability and off-road capabilities. It has a strong reputation for reliability and is often favored by those who need a versatile vehicle for both work and play.
Toyota GR 86
"...hey get the Tacoma, but then they also have their GR 86 Mm-hmm our Corolla and then the Supra"
The Toyota GR 86 is a small sports car that is really fun to drive. It's designed to be light and quick, making it great for people who love driving.
The Toyota GR 86 is a lightweight sports coupe that emphasizes driving enjoyment and agility. It is known for its rear-wheel-drive layout and balanced handling, making it a popular choice among driving enthusiasts looking for an affordable sports car.
Toyota Supra
"...have their GR 86 Mm-hmm our Corolla and then the Supra But my understanding is they aren't making this ..."
The Toyota Supra is a powerful sports car that many people admire for its speed and cool looks. It's designed to be fun to drive and is often seen in car shows and racing events.
The Toyota Supra is a legendary sports car that has garnered a cult following due to its performance capabilities and distinctive styling. Known for its powerful engines and rear-wheel-drive layout, it represents a blend of speed and agility, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
Toyota Corolla
"..., but then they also have their GR 86 Mm-hmm our Corolla and then the Supra But my understanding is they ..."
Toyota GR Corolla
"...ht? For the sixth generation. Yeah, and then the GR Corolla, which is just an epic little monster of a hatch ..."
The Toyota GR Corolla is a sporty version of the regular Corolla that is built for speed and fun. It has a powerful engine and can handle well on the road.
The Toyota GR Corolla is a high-performance version of the popular Corolla hatchback, designed for enthusiasts who seek a sporty driving experience. It features a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, making it a standout in the compact car segment.
Volkswagen Golf
"...Because I'll tell you right now that not having a golf R on this list Really depresses me. What we're l..."
The Volkswagen Golf is a small car that is easy to drive and has a lot of space inside. It's popular because it's comfortable and can be fun to drive, especially in its sportier version.
The Volkswagen Golf is a compact hatchback that has been praised for its practicality, comfort, and engaging driving experience. It is often discussed for its versatility and the performance-oriented Golf R variant, which offers a sportier driving experience.
Volkswagen Jetta
"...kswagen Has the only manual you can get is their Jetta GLI is their final manual model in the US, which ..."
The Volkswagen Jetta is a small car that is easy to drive and has a comfortable interior. It's a good choice for everyday use, especially in its sportier version called the GLI.
The Volkswagen Jetta is a compact sedan that offers a blend of practicality, comfort, and performance. It is often discussed for its value as a daily driver and the availability of a sporty GLI variant, which adds performance features.
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