The Last Pickup with a Manual Transmission
For driving enthusiasts, the tactile feel and control of a manual transmission offer an unmatched connection to the road. While this traditional setup is rapidly disappearing, one pickup truck still caters to those who appreciate the art of shifting gears. In 2025, the Toyota Tacoma stands alone as the only pickup truck available with a manual transmission.
Of the many new pickup trucks available, only Toyota has continued to offer the manual transmission. This choice provides drivers with a deeper, more engaging experience, granting a level of control that many drivers value.
This article explores the 2025 Toyota Tacoma and the specifics of getting the manual transmission. We’ll also address whether the necessary compromises are worth it.
To ensure the most current and accurate information, this article relies on data from Toyota’s official website, as well as other reputable sources, including TopSpeed and the EPA.
2025 Toyota Tacoma: Manual Transmission Availability
The manual transmission is becoming increasingly rare in the automotive world. However, Toyota recognizes the value of this option and continues to offer it in its mid-size Tacoma.
Not every Tacoma model features the manual transmission; so, buyers need to prioritize their preferences. Here’s a quick price and trim overview:
The Tacoma is among the most affordable mid-size pickup trucks. It offers excellent value for those seeking a reliable and straightforward vehicle. Additionally, 2025 marks the second year of the newest Tacoma generation, which means it comes with up-to-date features and technology.
For budget-conscious buyers, the SR and SR5 trims provide great capability without requiring a huge investment. The TRD Sport models focus on on-road performance, while the TRD Off-Road is designed to tackle tough terrain. The Limited trims offer a comfortable experience, and the Trailhunter and TRD Pro come with an off-road-focused package.
Manual Transmission Trims
Unfortunately, the manual transmission is not available on every trim level. Only specific models can be equipped with the six-speed manual instead of the eight-speed automatic.
The base SR model can be equipped with the six-speed, but it requires selecting the double cab model and four-wheel drive. Since the XtraCab and rear-wheel drive come standard, this adds $5,400 to the price. The TRD Sport and TRD Off-Road models can also come with the manual transmission. However, as these models come standard with a double cab, adding four-wheel drive increases the price by $2,400.
Manual Transmission Exclusively for Gas-Powered Models
Toyota offers the 2025 Tacoma in both a traditional gas-only configuration and a hybrid version. The hybrid model offers improved fuel efficiency and additional power. However, the manual transmission is only available with the standard gas engine.
Performance Specifications
A turbocharged four-cylinder engine powers every 2025 Tacoma, but not all are created equal. The base SR gets a detuned version of the engine. Every other gas-only model has more impressive power metrics.
Of the models available with a manual transmission, the SR is the most traditional, even featuring leaf-springs in the back. The TRD Off-Road and TRD Sport instead come with coil springs, which improve on-road refinement. Remember, only models equipped with four-wheel drive can have the manual transmission.
Fuel Economy
There is not a tremendous difference in fuel economy between models with the manual and automatic transmissions. Though the automatic models are slightly more efficient. The automatic can also be had in rear-wheel drive models, which bump up the combined fuel economy by another two miles per gallon.
Hybrid models may offer more power, but their fuel efficiency gains are not huge. The most efficient Tacoma with the hybrid powertrain manages only 24 miles per gallon combined.
An Updated Tacoma
This updated generation shows that Toyota has done an excellent job of modernizing the Tacoma. Previously, the truck felt outdated, making it difficult to recommend over its rivals. Now, it’s one of the best value-for-money options available.
Designed for Capability
The mid-size pickup segment exists because most buyers don’t need the capability of full-size trucks. However, they still need to perform under pressure. The Tacoma accomplishes this. When configured appropriately, it can tow up to 6,500 pounds.
The SR keeps things uncomplicated for those seeking a work truck, with either an XtraCab with a six-foot bed or a double cab with a five-foot bed. The TRD Sport and TRD Off-road models are double cabs by default, but can be configured with six-foot beds.
A Modern Interior
Toyota has put effort into updating the Tacoma, particularly the interior. Everything remains neat and utilitarian, with a simple and easy-to-use layout. An eight-inch infotainment screen comes standard, with a 14-inch unit available as an option. However, there are still physical buttons and dials for the essential cabin functions.
Technology has been significantly improved, with many standard features available. Features such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on every model. Other additions include a wireless charging pad and a JBL sound system, which includes a portable speaker.
Is the Manual Transmission Worth It?
Ultimately, only you can answer that question. The emotional advantages of driving a manual truck are undeniable. However, Toyota has limited your choices if you want a manual transmission.
You must select specific models and configure them a certain way to access the transmission. However, if these configurations align with your needs, there is really no downside. Also, no other automaker offers the manual transmission option for 2025, giving Toyota credit for catering to a niche but passionate group of drivers.
