Porsche Isn’t Ready to Let Go of the Manual Just Yet

For many car enthusiasts, the manual transmission is more than a way to shift gears ... it’s a connection to the driving experience, a tactile feeling that defines what it means to truly drive. And for now, Porsche is doing everything it can to keep that connection alive.

Starting in 2025, some Porsche models, like the 911 GTS, will no longer offer a manual option. The reason? The new hybrid T-system used in these cars works seamlessly with Porsche's eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, but isn’t compatible with a traditional manual. This change reflects the brand’s push toward electrification and tighter emissions regulations, as well as a focus on faster, more efficient performance.

That said, Porsche isn’t giving up on manuals completely. The 911 Carrera T still comes exclusively with a six-speed manual, designed for purists who want that direct, engaging experience. The GT3 model also continues to offer a manual option, with nearly half of buyers choosing it, proving there’s still strong demand. In fact, Porsche says that in the U.S., manual gearboxes remain surprisingly popular, even as they fade in other markets.

It’s clear Porsche values the manual for what it represents; a nod to heritage, driver involvement, and the simple joy of shifting gears by hand. But the road ahead poses challenges. Hybrid systems and electric powertrains change the game, pushing manufacturers toward automated transmissions that can better handle complex drivetrain components and emissions targets.

For now, the manual lives on in the heart of Porsche’s lineup, a lifeline for enthusiasts who cherish that hands-on feel. Whether it survives in the long term will depend on regulations, technology, and above all, the voices of the drivers who keep demanding it.

So while some models move on without a clutch pedal, Porsche is listening—and still thinking hard about how to keep the manual spirit alive, one 911 or 718 at a time.