Yes. On today’s Honda Civic lineup, a manual transmission is available, but only on the sport-focused variants. The standard Civics come with a CVT, while the manual option is currently offered on the Civic Si (and on the Civic Type R). If you’re open to older models, the used market has historically offered more manual transmission choices across several generations.
Current lineup: manual availability today
The following overview reflects the latest factory configurations you can order in the United States. It highlights which Civics can be purchased with a clutch and which cannot.
- Civic Si — 6-speed manual transmission (new)
- Civic Type R — 6-speed manual transmission (new)
- Other trims (LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, Touring) — CVT only (no manual option)
In practice, if your goal is a fresh-off-the-lactory Civic with a clutch, your primary choices are the Si and the Type R. The majority of the non-performance trims are equipped exclusively with a CVT, which prioritizes efficiency and smoothness over the tactile engagement of a manual.
Historical context: how manual options have evolved
Across earlier Civic generations, a manual transmission was far more common on a broad range of trims. With the recent 11th generation debut in 2022, Honda narrowed manual availability for new Civics mainly to the performance-oriented Si and the high-performance Type R. Those seeking a manual Civic on a brand-new car should look to those two variants; others can still find manual options by shopping in the used market from prior generations.
What changed in recent years
New-car buyers today will find fewer mainstream Civics offered with a clutch, as Honda prioritizes automatic efficiency in the core lineup. The Si and Type R remain the practical path for enthusiasts who want a manual, while the rest of the lineup is CVT-only.
Used market: expanding the options
For buyers flexible on model year, the used market offers a wider array of Civics with manual transmissions from older generations. These can include several trims across 8th, 9th, and 10th generations, where six-speed manuals were commonly available. Prospective buyers should verify transmission health and service history, as manual-equipped Civics from older years may require more maintenance than newer CVT models.
Shopping tips for finding a manual Civic
Before you shop, keep these considerations in mind to maximize your chances of finding a Civic with a manual transmission and a solid drivetrain history.
- Decide whether you want a brand-new Civic Si or Type R, or a used Civic with a manual from a prior generation.
- Test-drive the clutch and shifting: look for smooth engagement, no grinding, and consistent throw length.
- Check for clutch wear indicators and transmission fluid service history, especially on higher-mileage manuals.
- Inspect for typical wear items on manuals, such as synchronizer wear or clutch chatter during cold starts.
- Factor maintenance and repair costs into your budget, as manuals can require different timing belt/maintenance schedules depending on the age of the car.
Whether you’re aiming for a brand-new rally-inspired Civic Si or exploring the broader used market, a manual transmission can still be part of your Civic experience—just with different trade-offs depending on year and model.
Bottom line
For buyers in the current market, a manual Honda Civic is indeed available, but it’s largely limited to the Civic Si and Civic Type R among new cars. If a clutch is non-negotiable and you want a brand-new Civic, those two variants are your path. If you’re open to aged model years, the used market offers a broader selection of Civics with manual transmissions across several generations. Either way, a careful test-drive and a thorough inspection will help you lock in a Civic that aligns with your driving style and budget.
Summary
In short, yes—the Civic can come with a manual transmission, but in 2024–2026 the standard lineup is CVT-equipped. To get a new manual Civic, target the Si (and the Type R for the enthusiast-grade experience). If you’re flexible on year, the used market provides a wider range of manual-equipped Civics from previous generations. Always verify transmission health and maintenance history before purchase.