The MY2017 Honda Civic Sedan and Coupe models are set to hit showrooms tomorrow while boasting the expanding application of a manual gearbox.

The 6-speed manual gearbox is now available as standard on the 1.5-liter turbocharged Civic Sedan and Coupe in EX-T trim, with prices starting from $18,740 for the Sedan and $19,150 for the Coupe.

In EX-T guise, the two models feature the sporty six-speed manual transmission paired together with a 1.5-liter turbocharged DOHC engine, good for 174 HP and 167 lb-ft (226 Nm) of torque – 5 lb-ft (6.7 Nm) more than models equipped with the CVT transmission.

For the 2017MY, the CVT will stay on as an optional extra for turbocharged EX-T trims, though standard on EX-L and Touring trims. Civic EX Sedans now also add HD Radio and XM Satellite Radio to their features list.

“This has been a tremendous year for Civic, starting with the Sedan and Coupe setting sales records and leading the compact segment,” argued Jeff Conrad, senior VP and GM of the Honda Division. “For 2017, we’re thrilled to boost the Civic lineup by pairing the manual transmission with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine – something we know our customers are very excited about.”

The Honda Civic has led the compact car segment in sales for nine of the past 10 months in the US, while remaining the most popular car in America with under 35-year olds in each of the past six years – except for 2014 when that accolade went to the Accord.

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