What Lexus came with a manual transmission?
While Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, is primarily known for its smooth-shifting automatic transmissions, the brand has offered a few models over the years with a manual gearbox option. The Lexus IS sports sedan is one such model that was available with a manual transmission, providing a more engaging driving experience for enthusiasts.
The Lexus IS with a Manual Transmission
The Lexus IS, first introduced in 1999, is the brand's entry-level sports sedan. During the second generation of the IS, which was produced from 2005 to 2013, Lexus offered a manual transmission option on the IS 250 model. The IS 250 with a six-speed manual gearbox was available in select markets, including the United States, from 2006 to 2013.
The manual transmission option was targeted at driving enthusiasts who wanted a more engaging and connected driving experience. The IS 250 with the manual transmission featured the same 2.5-liter V6 engine as the automatic version, producing 204 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque.
Other Lexus Models with Manual Transmissions
Beyond the Lexus IS, the brand has offered manual transmissions on a few other models over the years, though the availability has been limited. The Lexus SC 430 convertible, produced from 2001 to 2010, was available with a six-speed manual transmission in select markets.p>
Additionally, the Lexus LFA supercar, a limited-production model produced from 2010 to 2012, was offered with a six-speed manual transmission as a special order option for a small number of customers.
However, as Lexus has continued to focus on providing a smooth, comfortable, and refined driving experience, the availability of manual transmissions across the brand's lineup has diminished in recent years. The IS 250 with a manual gearbox was the last Lexus model to offer a manual transmission option, with the model being discontinued in 2013.
