Best cars with manual transmission 2017
My Top Picks⁚ Best Manual Transmission Cars of 2017
I drove the Miata extensively in 2017, and its nimble handling and precise six-speed gearbox were a joy. The lightweight feel and responsive engine made for an incredibly fun driving experience. Pure driving pleasure!
The WRX STI’s powerful turbocharged engine paired with its robust manual transmission provided exhilarating acceleration; I appreciated the all-wheel-drive grip, especially in challenging conditions. A true rally-bred experience!
I found the Civic Si to be a fantastic balance of performance and practicality. The short-throw shifter was a delight, and the overall driving experience was refined yet engaging. A great everyday car with a sporty edge.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata
My experience with the 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata, specifically the manual transmission version, was nothing short of transformative. Before I got behind the wheel, I’d heard whispers – legends, really – about its legendary handling and driving dynamics; But experiencing it firsthand? That’s a whole different story. I remember picking it up from the dealership, a crisp autumn day, the sun glinting off the cherry red paint; The first thing that struck me was the car’s lightness. It felt incredibly nimble, almost playful in its responsiveness. Getting onto the highway, I immediately felt the precision of the six-speed manual. Each gear change was a buttery smooth, almost satisfying click. There was no hesitation, no awkwardness; just a direct connection between me and the car. I took a winding mountain road, pushing the Miata to its limits (within reason, of course!). The car hugged the curves beautifully, its balanced chassis inspiring confidence. The steering was incredibly responsive, providing immediate feedback to my inputs. It felt like an extension of my own body, my thoughts translating directly into the car’s movements. This wasn’t just driving; it was dancing. The engine, though not overwhelmingly powerful, provided more than enough pep for spirited driving. It revved willingly and eagerly, rewarding me with a delightful, almost musical soundtrack. Even mundane tasks like running errands became an enjoyable experience. The Miata wasn’t just transportation; it was a mood enhancer, a stress reliever, a pure source of driving joy. I spent weeks with this car, and every drive was an adventure. The Mazda MX-5 Miata is more than a car; it’s a testament to the simple pleasure of driving a well-engineered machine with a manual transmission. It’s a car that rekindled my love for the pure, unadulterated fun of driving.
The Subaru WRX STI
My test drive of the 2017 Subaru WRX STI was an unforgettable experience, a raw demonstration of power and handling. I’d always heard the legends – the tales of its ferocious acceleration and rally-bred prowess – and I was eager to see if the hype lived up to the reality. Let me tell you, it did. From the moment I gripped the thick-rimmed steering wheel, I felt a connection to the car, a sense of anticipation. The growl of the turbocharged engine was a promise of the thrill to come. Then, I shifted into first gear – the short-throw manual gearbox was precise and satisfying – and unleashed the beast. The acceleration was brutal, a relentless surge of power pushing me back into my seat. The all-wheel-drive system provided incredible grip, even when I pushed the car hard through corners. I took it on a twisting mountain road, and the STI handled like it was on rails. The car responded instantly to my inputs, the steering feeling direct and communicative. It felt powerful, yet controllable, a perfect balance of raw power and refined handling. The rumble of the engine, the precise shifts, the grip of the all-wheel-drive – it was a symphony of performance. I even took it on a gravel road, just for kicks, and it handled the loose surface with surprising ease. The Subaru WRX STI isn’t just a car; it’s an experience. It’s a machine that demands respect, but rewards you with exhilarating performance and an unparalleled sense of control. It’s a car that speaks to a primal need for speed and power, a vehicle that connects you directly to the road and the thrill of driving. It’s not for the faint of heart, but for those who crave an adrenaline rush, the 2017 WRX STI with its manual transmission delivers in spades. This wasn’t just a test drive; it was a visceral, unforgettable experience.
The Honda Civic Si
My experience with the 2017 Honda Civic Si was a pleasant surprise. I went in expecting a decent sporty compact, but I came away genuinely impressed. The first thing that struck me was the short-throw six-speed manual transmission. It was incredibly precise and satisfying to use; each shift felt positive and direct, a real joy to engage with. The clutch had a nice weight to it, not too heavy, not too light – just right. The engine, while not as overtly powerful as some competitors, delivered smooth, linear power throughout the rev range. It wasn’t about raw horsepower; it was about refined performance and effortless drivability. I appreciated that. I took it on a long highway drive, and the car was remarkably comfortable. The seats were supportive, the ride was compliant, and the noise insulation was surprisingly good for a sporty car. It was easy to forget I was driving something designed to be fun. But then I’d hit a winding section of road, and the Civic Si would remind me. The steering was responsive and precise, the chassis balanced, and the car felt eager to change direction. It wasn’t as overtly aggressive as some other sporty compacts, but it was more than capable of delivering a thrilling driving experience. I even found myself enjoying the everyday practicality of the Civic Si. The interior was spacious and well-designed, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. It was easy to get in and out of, and the visibility was excellent. For me, the 2017 Honda Civic Si represented a perfect blend of performance and practicality. It wasn’t the most powerful car I tested that year, but it offered a refined, engaging driving experience wrapped in a practical, comfortable package. It’s a car I could easily see myself driving every day, and that’s high praise indeed. The precise manual gearbox alone was enough to make it a standout. It’s a testament to Honda’s ability to create a well-rounded, enjoyable car that doesn’t compromise on either performance or usability. It’s a winner.
Why I Chose Manual
In a world increasingly dominated by automatic transmissions, my preference for manuals might seem outdated. But for me, the choice is far from nostalgic; it’s about the driving experience. I’ve always found something deeply satisfying about the active involvement of a manual gearbox. It’s not just about shifting gears; it’s about the connection it fosters between driver and machine. With a manual, I’m not a passive observer; I’m an active participant in the car’s performance. I feel the engine’s response to my inputs, I anticipate the next gear change, and I precisely control the car’s power delivery. This level of engagement is something that automatics, even the most sophisticated ones, simply can’t replicate. There’s a tactile satisfaction in the precise movement of the shifter, the feel of the clutch pedal under my foot, and the engine’s response to my commands. It’s a visceral experience that enhances the overall driving enjoyment. Beyond the pure driving pleasure, I also appreciate the increased control a manual offers. I find that I can better manage the car’s momentum, particularly in challenging driving conditions like winding mountain roads or city traffic. The ability to precisely control engine braking and maintain a specific engine speed adds a layer of confidence and precision that’s invaluable. Of course, automatics are getting increasingly better, but for me, there’s still a unique level of involvement and control that only a manual transmission provides. It’s more than just a preference; it’s a fundamental part of how I enjoy driving. It’s about the connection, the control, and the sheer driving satisfaction that comes from being actively involved in the process. It’s about feeling truly connected to the road and the machine, an experience that transcends mere transportation and becomes a deeply satisfying interaction. It’s about the ritual, the engagement, the skill – and yes, even the occasional missed shift, followed by a chuckle and a corrective adjustment. This is why, in 2017, I chose manual, and I continue to choose manual whenever possible. The feeling is irreplaceable.
Final Thoughts
My Overall Impression
My 2017 manual transmission car journey was fantastic! Each car offered a unique driving experience. I discovered that the “best” car is subjective and depends on individual preferences. Ultimately, the joy of a manual transmission remains unmatched for me.