Manual transmission cars have been all time favorites for speed lovers and race enthusiasts. This is because changing gears as you like is a fun way to take the car to its limits and keep wheels in control. Another good thing about these types of cars is that they are available at a low price. On the other hand, with an automatic transmission gearbox, you cannot play around with sudden acceleration or braking by changing gears manually. Just like manual transmission, All Wheel Drive (AWD) has also proven to be a great feature in vehicles. This traction-control function is mandatorily required and implemented in cars used for rallying or driving in adverse road and weather conditions.
Best All Wheel Drive Manual Transmission Cars
Suzuki SX4 Crossover
This hatch from Suzuki is tagged as the bargain of the century. There are four variants offered, out of which all have the selectable AWD, branded as the ‘intelligent All-Wheel-Drive’. The most popular choice is the base variant which has a 6-speed manual transmission and comes at an affordable price of $17,000. A 150-hp 2-liter engine is a standard for all trim variants.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution
Be it road racing competitions or professional rally racing events, the Lancer Evo is an impressive player. Its owners can boast about the Evo’s muscular 291-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and the very useful Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC). Along with engine power, the GSR variant has a true 5-speed manual shift transmission gearbox which thrills racers. At a starting price of about $34,000, this is a sports package worth investing in.
Porsche 911 Carrera 4
This Porsche is yet another sports machine which has a valued performance. The 911 Carrera 4 trim variant has a rear-mounted 3.6-liter 24-valve engine and an all wheel drive system which powers the car by 345 hp. The Porsche Stability Management (PSM) is a trusted traction control system in this AWD sports car. A base price of about $86,000 might be a reason why potential sports car buyers may choose not to go in for this option.
Audi S5
Audi is world famous for offering business class vehicles. However, the S5 is a coupe which is most suitable for sports use. Its technical setup comprises a 4.2-liter V8 engine which generates an excellent 354 hp. Main features in the configuration include a six-speed manual transmission and the trademarked ‘quattro’ AWD technology. The S5 suspension is tuned according to race standards, and performs without compromising on comfort. The price of this Audi car is claimed to be around $54,000.
Best All Wheel Drive Manual Transmission SUVs
Subaru Forester
In the automotive world, Subaru is probably considered to be the best brand for AWD systems. The Forester is one of the top class SUVs ever manufactured. This SUV is offered in six variants, with the base one being the ‘2.5X’. The 2.5-liter 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER of this sleek but tough SUV gives out a decent 170 hp power. Potential SUV buyers are generally attracted to the price which is just about $20,500.
Jeep Compass Sport
One interesting fact to know is that Jeep is one of the oldest SUV manufacturers with AWD. The Jeep Compass Sport is a contemporary SUV which is a good example of brand and style. This stylish vehicle is supplied with a 2.4-liter DOHC engine which contributes to 172 hp. Along with AWD, the ESC system efficiently takes care of traction. This sports SUV is available at a cost of approximately $21,000.
Toyota FJ Cruiser
Owing to the sturdy looks, it seems that the FJ Cruiser is exclusively meant for serious off-roading purposes. It is powered with a large 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine that generates 260 hp. In addition to the torque, you also get a 6-speed manual transmission gearbox to take on the terrain. With full-time four-wheel drive and 5000 pounds of towing capacity, you can easily carry sufficient weight on the trailer without affecting traction. A base cost of around $26,500 is not such a bad deal for this terrain cruiser.
Nissan Xterra
The Xterra is a product from Nissan which has got the same amount of engine capacity and power that is offered by the FJ Cruiser. The PRO-4X variant of this SUV has all that is needed to get through the toughest terrains. Few of the standard configuration equipment comprises Bilstein off-road performance shock absorbers and rack-mounted off-road lights on roof. Moreover, the 6-speed manual transmission facility makes off-roading all the more exciting. For this vehicle, you have to shell out anywhere from $30,000 approximately.
This is some general information about few of the most popular AWD manual transmission cars. In order to get a complete overview of the above mentioned models, it is suggested to go to the respective brand dealer or visit the company’s website. The combination of all wheel control and manual transmission certainly increases the enjoyment and thrill in driving.