Market Watch: These Manual Cars Are Ideal For City Driving

It’s understandable not to opt for a manual car in Singapore. The idea of driving one in the mix of countless traffic lights is not ideal. Lack of vast tarmac to enjoy the full reaches of the rev range makes stick shifting less of an attractive proposition, too. Factor in prohibitive car pricing and lack of new manual car options, and now owning one truly leaves plenty to ponder.

But if you value manual cars as much as we do, you might chance upon a sub-segment of family-oriented cars that “happen” to be tagged (M) on Carousell’s used car classifieds. Out of more than 7000+ listings, only 300 are manuals and that includes commercial vehicles. A large portion after excluding Cat C-eligible ones are enthusiast cars, like the Subaru Impreza WRX STI and Honda Accord Euro R.

Apply more filters to include only PARF cars, and the options shrink substantially. The pool of performance cars has narrowed, and it’s near impossible to find a mid-range, family-friendly form factor fitted with a manual. Which makes sense given the lack of popularity and potential dent on depreciation values.

These three cars are family-friendly, with a stick shift that accommodates gentle city jaunts. Why not just opt for the automatic, you’d ask? We reckon that in an era that makes one pedal driving mainstream, the art of three-pedal coordination delivers a sense of tactility that humans still crave. Let’s take a look at our options.

2018 Hyundai Kona 1.0 GLS Turbo (M)

The Kona has gone either hybrid or fully electric now, but not too long ago (up till 2018) you could buy one with a 6-speed manual from the official dealer. A turbocharged 1.0-litre 3 cylinder generating 118hp and 172Nm powered the front axle.

It sold alongside an all-wheel drive 1.6-litre turbo automatic Kona that was significantly costlier. Those were the days when brands offered drivetrains that are poles apart. A manual Hyundai in 2025 appeals to us, and it should be an ideal companion for sleek city hooning.

2016 MINI Cooper 1.5 (M)

The MINI’s ability to accommodate a variety of drivetrains is commendable given its compact proportions. In 3rd-gen, F-coded guise, it managed to house four petrol and two diesel options from turbocharged 1.2 to 2.0-litre, and even an introductory electric version in SE trim.

Sourcing for your preferred spec can be a challenge, which makes this 5 door, 6-speed manual specimen rather intriguing. Two additional doors improve functionality, while a stick shift gears you up for fun. A spec like this doesn't come by often - strike while the iron’s hot!

2019 Honda Civic Hatchback 1.5 (M)

Not all manual Hondas need to be B18 or K20A-equipped Type R screamers. How times have changed - from earth-shattering, naturally aspirated redlines to torque-laden turbocharged motors, the Civic represents more than a boy racer’s identity.

This 10th-gen hatchback never lived in the shadows of the FK8 Type R flagship. Its popularity rocketed due to the potent 1.5-litre VTEC turbo amassing low-end torque that its predecessors lacked. While some might lament the absence of NA top-end VTEC rush, fragments of Honda’s high revving identity is still present. A manual extracts more fun out of this motor.

---

Car you sell, Carousell. Get the highest quote for your car in just 24 hours, with assistance on paperwork too.