Despite the global trend moving increasingly toward vehicles with automatic transmissions and the rise of electric cars, which mostly rely on single-speed gearboxes, there are countries around the world where manual transmissions remain the norm—and in some places, their popularity is even growing as of 2025. What keeps manuals relevant in an age of technological convenience and comfort? We will explore the top countries where manuals still hold strong and the economic, cultural, and technical reasons behind this phenomenon.
In the United States, although the number of manual transmission enthusiasts has increased and younger generations continue to favor stick shifts, manuals account for only about 2% of new car sales in 2024, with fewer than 100,000 manual-equipped vehicles leaving showrooms. However, it remains a heritage choice cherished by a niche of experienced driving aficionados.
In contrast, several other global regions serve as strongholds for manual transmissions—from China to Italy, India, South Africa, and parts of South America. Starting with China, surprisingly known as the electric vehicle capital of the world, around 75% of vehicles on the roads still feature manual transmissions. This high figure is explained by the difference between urban areas, where automatics dominate, and rural regions, where manuals are still preferred due to their affordability and simpler maintenance. China also emphasizes manual driving skills training, offering distinct driving licenses depending on the transmission type.
In India, automatic vehicles arrived relatively late compared to global standards. Even with growing automatic sales, manual transmissions still dominate, accounting for roughly three-quarters of cars sold today. Cost remains a decisive factor in the Indian market, with manuals priced about $900 less than automatics—a significant amount for many buyers. Models such as the Maruti Suzuki WagonR, Hyundai Creta, Mahindra Scorpio, and Maruti Swift are popular with manual gearboxes.
South Africa also demonstrates a slower decline in manual popularity compared to other countries, with manuals comprising roughly half of new car sales. Small cars dominate this segment, and the Volkswagen Polo Vivo, offered with a manual transmission as standard, is among the top sellers.
In South America—particularly Brazil and Argentina—manuals continue to dominate the roadways. Domestic automakers like Fiat capitalize on this trend by offering several manual transmission options in their core lineups, despite the availability of advanced transmissions like CVTs. Over 65% of vehicles sold in Brazil have manual gearboxes, slightly edging out Argentina’s approximate 61%.
The continuation of manuals in these regions boils down to two major factors: the economic aspect and cultural habits. Economically, manuals are cheaper to produce and maintain, and often more fuel-efficient compared to some automatic systems, both domestic and imported. Culturally, driving habits and preferences have been passed down through generations, with some resistance to change where gear selection is seen as more about control than comfort.
In Europe, manual gearboxes remain common, particularly in compact and mid-sized cars. Around half of new vehicles in many European countries still roll off factory lines with manual transmissions, driven by factors such as lower maintenance costs, better control in varied driving conditions, and local traditions that favor manuals over often costlier automatics.
Globally, the number of models available with manual transmissions is gradually dwindling. The UK recorded a 57% drop in manual-equipped vehicles over the past decade. Forecasts suggest manual transmissions could disappear from advanced markets by around 2037, as they face fierce competition from electric vehicles utilizing single-speed gearboxes.
Nevertheless, automakers continue to offer manual transmissions in limited variants to cater to a loyal minority that values the genuine driving experience and full vehicle control.
In conclusion, manual transmissions remain an important segment of the global automotive market in 2025, especially in countries where economic considerations and cultural factors strongly influence preferences. The relationship between the driver and their manual gearbox represents an identity and passion for driving that spans decades, despite the ongoing battle with automatics and new technologies. The global market is diverse, and in these countries, manuals maintain a strong resolve to persist amid advancing automotive technology.
