Why these two SUVs are the last stand for manual transmissions in America
Manual transmissions have gradually disappeared from the American market, left behind by automatic transmissions that are faster, more efficient and easier to live with in everyday life. Once common in almost every segment, the stick shift is now rare, especially in SUVs, where convenience and comfort tend to take precedence. However, a small number of models continue to perpetuate the tradition.
These two SUVs stand out as being among the last options that still offer a true manual driving experience. Brands like Jeep and Ford have resisted moving to fully automatic ranges on some models, preserving a level of driver engagement that has largely disappeared from modern vehicles. Their continued availability highlights a commitment to enthusiasts who always prioritize control over convenience.
As the industry moves toward electrification and automation, the future of manual transmissions looks increasingly uncertain. These SUVs represent a last holdout, proof that even if the manual is fading, it has not yet disappeared.
In order to provide you with the most current and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article comes from various manufacturer websites.
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There are only two SUVs left in America equipped with a manual transmission
Off-roaders with old-school soul
In a very short time, manuals have gone from being a standard transmission to something only found in enthusiast vehicles. If you’re looking for an SUV with a manual shifter, your choices have been narrowed down to just two models in America. What’s interesting is how closely related these two models are and how perfectly the manual fits their ideology.
Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler are the only manual SUVs in 2026
Slowly but surely, the manual transmission disappeared from the options sheets on SUVs. The only two new models still on the market that still offer it are the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler. As we mentioned earlier, manual transmissions are reserved for enthusiast-oriented models, and we think these two SUVs are no exception.
Both the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco exist as serious off-road vehicles. You don’t buy one thinking you might try its four-wheel-drive capabilities at some point; you buy one with the intention of getting it dirty. It’s in these scenarios that a manual transmission comes into its own. A manual gives you more control, it’s more predictable, and it’s generally more reliable, which is important in off-road vehicles.
Where have the other manual SUVs gone?
Most people who want a manual actually enjoy driving. They like to row alone, because using their car is like a hobby for them. For most SUV buyers, that’s not the case at all. For the average person looking for a crossover, the most important things are practicality and comfort, and a manual encroaches on both. This means that more amateur SUVs, like the Wrangler and Bronco, are the only place where a manual can really make sense, and many of the older options in this segment have disappeared or become much milder than they were.
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A six-speed transmission comes standard in the Jeep Wrangler
Finding a Manual Wrangler is Easy
The Wrangler’s entire identity is based on its simplicity and robustness. Everything is designed to feel old-school, and that’s how Wrangler buyers like it. In this context, offering a standard manual transmission makes perfect sense. You don’t need to select very specific options or buy the most expensive finish, it’s right there.
How to Get a Manual in a 2026 Jeep Wrangler
- Base trim motor
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Pentastar 3.6L V6 ICE engine
- Base Trim Transmission
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6-speed manual
- Basic transmission
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Four-wheel drive
- Basic power
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285 hp at 6,400 rpm
- Basic trim torque
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260 ft. lbs. @ 4800 rpm
- Do
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Jeep
- Model
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Cowboy
- Segment
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Mid-size SUV
In base form, the Wrangler comes with a naturally aspirated 3.6-liter V6, four-wheel drive, and a six-speed manual transmission. This is the only configuration that gives you access to the manual transmission. Most models can be optioned with a two-liter turbocharged inline-four, but that means you get an eight-speed automatic instead. It costs nothing to upgrade to the four-cylinder, but the automatic transmission costs $3,000 more.
Essentially, you can choose between the least expensive Wrangler trims or most of the premium trims if you want a six-speed. The Sport, Sport S, and Willys are the most affordable models and all come standard with the V6 and six-speed combo. The Rubicon and Rubicon X models also feature the same layout. Unfortunately, the top-of-the-line Moab 392 model with the 470-horsepower V8 only comes with the automatic transmission.
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Ford Offers Unique 7-Speed Manual Transmission in 2026 Bronco
Equipment dedicated to off-road scenarios
Like Jeep, Ford offers its manual transmission as standard. In fact, only a few models do not offer a manual. What’s more interesting in Ford’s case is that they opted for a seven-speed manual rather than a traditional six-speed manual. Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate how the transmission has been handled here.
How to Get a Manual in a 2026 Ford Bronco
- Base trim motor
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EcoBoost 2.3L ICE
- Base Trim Transmission
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10-speed automatic
- Basic transmission
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Four-wheel drive
- Basic power
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275 hp at 5,700 rpm
- Basic trim torque
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315 ft. lbs. @ 3400 rpm
- Do
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Ford
- Model
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Bronco
- Segment
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Mid-size SUV
Rather than a naturally aspirated V6, the Bronco comes standard with a turbocharged 2.3-liter inline-four. It’s no slouch, though, with an impressive 300 horsepower. Again, the manual transmission can only be had with the base powertrain. There are a few models in the lineup that offer a larger V6, but these only come with an automatic transmission. The Outer Banks, Stoppe Edition and twin-turbo V6 Raptor are the only models not equipped with the seven-speed transmission.
Usually, seven-speed manuals are reserved for vehicles like Porsches, where they’re all about smooth efficiency. In the Bronco, seventh gear is about capability. Ford has given the manual Bronco a dedicated crawler gear. It is labeled “C” and is designed for high-torque, low-speed off-road driving. Even more control is needed to go further.
Manuals are for fun cars only
For the average driver, an automatic transmission simply makes more sense. They require less work, they are smoother and offer better levels of efficiency. It makes sense that they become more and more rare as time goes by. However, we love that there are still fun SUVs like the Wrangler and Bronco that put fun first. In these types of cars, where it’s all about control, a manual transmission simply makes more sense.
