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Unfortunately, manual transmissions are a dying breed. Of course, you can still find some SUVs with a stick shift, but they are few and far between. Because of this, many people decide to buy used SUVs. But of course, some used SUVs are better than others, so here are three of the best used SUVs with a manual transmission.

Mazda CX-5 is one of the best used SUVs with a manual transmission

2015 Mazda CX-5 in silver
2015 Mazda CX-5 | Mazda

The Mazda CX-5 Sport should be on practically every list for people looking for an SUV with a manual transmission. This is especially the case if you want a compact SUV with solid power under the hood. Additionally, the 2015 Mazda CX-5 Sport is the strongest recommendation for a used model with a manual transmission. 

According to Edmunds, the 2015 Mazda CX-5 Sport has a 2.0-liter inline-four with a maximum output of 155 horsepower. It’s front-wheel drive and uses a six-speed manual transmission. According to reports, the 2015 CX-5 takes 8.2 seconds to get from 0 to 60 miles per hour. Of course, the interior of this model won’t be as advanced as later Mazda SUVs, but it still holds up today. 

Naturally, other slightly older Mazda CX-5 models have options for a manual transmission. However, some of them are not the greatest. For example, some may be tempted to get the 2016 Mazda CX-5 because it’s newer. However, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 has a ton of customer complaints. 

2016 Subaru Forester

2016 Subaru Forester is one of the best manual transmission SUVs
2016 Subaru Forester | Subaru

The 2016 Subaru Forester is another great option for people looking for a manual transmission SUV. It has a 2.5-liter flat-four engine with a maximum output of 170 horsepower and a torque of 174 lb-ft. The 2016 Forester is all-wheel drive and uses a six-speed. Additionally, the vehicle can tow up to 1,500 pounds. 

The 2016 Subaru Forester interior might be a tad bit dated compared to some of its rivals. However, it’s a well built cabin that will withstand the test of time. Regarding reliability, this model is considered one of the best in the lineup. In terms of safety, it is a Top Safety Plus pick. Overall, it’s a great SUV that not only has a stick shift, but that can stand with the best of them.

2016 Jeep Wrangler

2016 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited in green
2016 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited | Stellantis

The 2016 Jeep Wrangler is one of the most powerful used SUVs with a manual transmission. The Sport trim of the Jeep has a 3.6-liter V6 with a maximum output of 285 horsepower and a torque of 260 lb-ft. It’s four-wheel drive and uses a six-speed transmission. However, one of its drawbacks is that it’s not fuel efficient as it gets an average of 17 miles to the gallon in the city and 21 on the highway. 

The 2016 Jeep Wrangler is also pretty decent regarding both safety and reliability. It’s not the highest in its class of SUVs in either category, but drivers can feel confident in this model Wrangler. Of course, the Wrangler is still one SUV that comes with a manual for the newer models. Still, the 2016 edition is one of the best used options. 

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