Which cars still have hand brakes?
Very few new cars still use a traditional hand brake lever; most rely on electronic parking brakes (EPB) or a pedal-style parking brake. A small subset of models—typically niche sports cars, retro-styled designs, and some regional trims—still offer a manual hand brake.
This article examines where hand brakes persist, why manufacturers have largely shifted to electronic systems, and how you can identify the type of parking brake on a car you’re considering—whether new or used.
Context: why the hand brake is fading, and where it endures
The automotive industry has largely embraced EPB and other electronically controlled parking solutions to save space, reduce complexity, and integrate with advanced driver-assistance systems. However, a few categories of vehicles continue to lean on a traditional lever or lever-like control, either for cost reasons, driving experience, or market expectations. Below, we outline where a hand brake is most likely to appear and what to look for when shopping.
Which cars still have hand brakes?
Before listing, note that the presence of a hand brake depends on the model year, trim level, and regional market. Availability can vary even within the same model across countries or dealer configurations.
- Sports cars and performance-oriented models: some niche or older-generation models retain a traditional hand brake lever for direct feel and simplicity, especially in markets that favor a more analog driving experience.
- Niche, retro-styled, or heritage-oriented vehicles: vehicles designed to evoke classic driving experiences may keep a lever-style hand brake as part of their character and ergonomics.
- Budget-focused or region-specific trims: in certain markets or lower-cost variants, a mechanical hand brake can be retained to avoid EPB hardware costs or additional regulatory requirements.
Concluding: The trend toward electronic parking brakes is strong across the industry, so a hand brake is increasingly rare in new cars. If retaining a manual lever is important to you, verify the exact parking brake configuration for the specific model and market you’re considering, as options can differ by country and trim.
How to verify the parking brake type when shopping
Check the vehicle’s official specs, owner’s manual, or brochure for terms like “electronic parking brake” (EPB) or “manual/hand brake.” Look for imagery of a lever between the seats or a switch on the center console. When in doubt, ask the dealer to confirm the parking brake type for the exact configuration you’re evaluating and request a build sheet or window sticker that specifies EPB vs. manual lever.
Summary
As of 2025, traditional hand brakes are largely confined to a small niche of vehicles. The vast majority of new cars use electronic parking brakes or other modern parking solutions. If a manual hand brake is a must-have feature, you’ll most likely find it in certain niche sports cars, retro-styled models, or region-specific trims, and you should verify the exact configuration for your market and year before purchasing.
