In the United States, the only Hondas currently offered with a traditional manual transmission are the Civic Si and Civic Type R. Other Honda models in production rely on automatic transmissions or CVTs.
Across Honda's lineup, the manual gearbox has become increasingly rare as automatics improve in efficiency and refinement. This article outlines the current landscape in the U.S., notes regional and historical context, and offers guidance for readers tracking Honda’s shifting transmission strategy.
Current manual transmissions in the United States
Below are the current Honda models in the U.S. market that offer a traditional 6-speed manual gearbox, each with a note on performance orientation and availability.
- Civic Si — A sport-focused variant of the Civic that uses a 6-speed manual, emphasizing driver engagement and sporty handling.
- Civic Type R — Honda's flagship performance hatch with a 6-speed manual and a turbocharged engine, designed for enthusiasts and track driving.
For buyers seeking a manual Honda in the U.S. today, these two Civics are the only options currently in production.
How Honda's manual options have evolved
Manual transmissions have become rarer across the world's car brands as automatics and CVTs improve in efficiency and smoothness. Honda has followed that trend, concentrating manual availability on the Civic’s high-performance variants in the U.S. while most other models use automatic gearboxes. In other regions or historical years, there have been different offerings; however, the current global lineup leans toward automatic transmissions for most models.
Regional and historical examples
In markets outside the United States, a few Honda models in past years offered manual transmissions in certain trims or generations. Over time, those options have diminished as demand for manuals has declined and automatics have become more prevalent. If you’re shopping outside the U.S. or looking at older model years, always verify current specifications with the local dealer or importer.
What to check when shopping for a manual Honda
If you’re determined to get a Honda with a manual transmission, here's what to verify:
- Model and trim: Confirm that the specific trim includes a 6-speed manual (not all trims do).
- Availability by region: Manuals may be more or less common depending on the market and model year.
- Inventory and production year: Some manuals may be limited editions or tied to model-year updates.
Always test-drive and confirm with a dealer before committing, as transmission options can vary by market and model year.
Summary
Today, the United States market offers manual transmissions only on the Civic Si and Civic Type R. Across other regions and historical generations, manuals have appeared on a broader range of Hondas, but they have become increasingly rare as automatics dominate. If you’re seeking a manual Honda, start with the two Civics in the U.S. and check local listings for regional variations and older-generation options.