Genesis
Genesis, a subsidiary brand of Hyundai, has the upcoming 2019 Genesis G70 set to release later this year. It was unclear whether or not this vehicle would offer a manual transmission, but according to the fuel economy ratings released by the EPA, the 2019 Genesis G70 2.0L turbo will come with an optional manual transmission. The G70 shares a platform with the smoking hot Kia Stinger. However, the Stinger only offers an 8-speed automatic transmission. Hyundai is playing the heart strings of those still interested in doing their own shifting.
Subaru
Subaru, by contrast, might be headed in the opposite direction. This comes as somewhat of a surprise considering Subaru offers most of their vehicles with a manual transmission. This rumor was started by Auto Express, who is asserting that Subaru’s focus on safety may drive the company away from manual gearboxes. The reasoning being that Subaru’s CVTs work better with their Eyesight driver assistance technology. Subaru have not confirmed that they are ditching the manual. However, Subaru UK managing director Chris Graham said, “There are certainly no rumors we’ve heard that manual will continue or Eyesight will be [offered] with [a] manual.” He went on to say “My gut tells me it will be EyeSight with Lineartronic ongoing and long term.”
Please be sure to drop your thoughts on this industry debate in the comments below! We here at TFL love manual transmissions, but also understand that the industry is moving further and further away from them. Especially in the US market.
Be sure to stay tuned for more news about Subaru’s use of the manual transmission and Genesis’ supposed G70 Manual.
While you wait, why not check out Mike and Nathan’s fun video featuring a 2018 Honda Fit Sport – with the 6-speed manual transmission, no less:
