Yes—manual transmission is available in the 2025 Civic lineup, but only on the Civic Si (and on the Civic Type R, a separate high-performance variant). The mainstream trims (LX, Sport, EX, Touring) are typically offered with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the United States.
As the 2025 model year unfolds, car shoppers are weighing the traditional engagement of a stick shift against the efficiency and smoothness of a CVT. This article breaks down where Honda sticks with a manual, and why the choice is limited to specific variants within the Civic family.
Manual transmission availability by trim
Below is a quick breakdown of which 2025 Civic variants offer a manual gearbox.
- Civic Si — 6-speed manual transmission
- Civic Type R — 6-speed manual transmission (a separate, high-performance variant within the Civic family)
- Other trims (LX, Sport, EX, Touring) — CVT only in the U.S. market
In summary, if you want a 2025 Civic with a manual, your primary options are the Si (and, if you’re considering the broader Civic lineup, the Type R). For most buyers shopping the standard Civics, a CVT is the default configuration.
Why Honda keeps the manual option in the Si—and not across the board
Automakers often reserve manual transmissions for sportier or enthusiast-focused models. Honda’s approach with the Civic mirrors that strategy, prioritizing driver engagement on the Si while accommodating broad consumer demand for better efficiency and smooth operation on the remaining trims.
- Driver engagement and performance tuning: The Si is tuned for a more spirited driving experience, where a manual gearbox complements the chassis and power delivery.
- Market demand and efficiency goals: For many buyers, CVTs offer improved fuel economy and smoother operation, which suits the bulk of the Civic lineup.
- Position within the Civic family: The high-performance Civic Type R, and the Si, maintain manual options to satisfy enthusiasts, while other trims emphasize convenience and economy.
For enthusiasts who prize a traditional gearbox, the Si is the practical entry point within the 2025 Civic lineup, while the Civic Type R stands as the top-tier manual option for those seeking a more extreme driving experience.
What this means for buyers in different regions
Transmission availability can vary by country and market. In the United States, the pattern described above is currently representative: manual transmission is confined to the Si (and the Civic Type R as a separate model). Some international markets sometimes offer different configurations, so local availability may differ.
buyers outside the U.S. should verify local specifications with a dealership, as the global Civic lineup sometimes includes alternative engine/transmission choices not offered in the U.S. market.
Summary
The 2025 Honda Civic does offer a manual transmission, but only on the sport-focused variants within the Civic family: the Civic Si (and the Civic Type R, as a separate model). The rest of the lineup—LX, Sport, EX, Touring—continues to rely on CVT in the U.S. This arrangement keeps a traditional manual option alive for enthusiasts while supporting broader efficiency and reliability targets for the mainstream Civic.