Toyota Tacoma remains the sole manual pickup truck in the U.S. market

By 2026, the Toyota Tacoma stood as the sole pickup truck in the U.S. market still offering a manual transmission. Other manufacturers had gradually phased out manual gearboxes, responding to declining demand and advancements in automatic transmissions.

The pickup segment shifted particularly quickly toward automatics. Modern models generate high torque and are designed for towing, which places extra strain on the clutch. Automatic transmissions also integrate more seamlessly with electronic driver-assistance systems.

Stricter efficiency requirements and the desire for ease of use in urban driving further accelerated this trend. Buyers increasingly prioritize comfort over driver involvement.

Nevertheless, Toyota kept the manual option for the Tacoma, targeting enthusiasts and off-road drivers. In such conditions, a manual transmission provides more precise traction control and effective engine braking. After the Jeep Gladiator dropped its manual gearbox in 2025, the Tacoma became the only remaining choice in this segment, making it a unique offering on the market.