I contacted Global Vehicles and they returned my Email regarding a 5 speed transmission. As of today, 9/21/09, they are not going to offer one at launch. I am going to wait a couple years and until they offer a 5 speed.

Chris
AKA: BigBlue

 

Yes, thats what i have been saying. Ford sells 4 door shortbed rangers everywhere over seas with a 4 cyl diesel, chevy sells the same thing, as well as toyota etc etc.

I think it has more to do with epa regs or something not making it worth it since they would have to basically design a new model that would meet epa regs. Rediculous

 

OK - I read that line regarding the 2.5 and the 5 speed as that combination wasn't coming over to the U.S. I surmised that a 5 speed would still be available with the 2.2 liter.

Shows you what happens when you surmise...

OK - now I can concur - not having a manual with this truck is just dumb...

 

No problem - I just totally agree with you.

Fact is, I learned to drive stick on a little old Ford Courior (with the Ford, not the Mazda engine) and while it was slower than a jar of honey on a January day, it was still a lot of fun for a new manual-transmission person - all 4-speed and 71mph of it. And yes, the Courier was built just a little bit better than most standard pallets are today - except they didn't use long enough nails to hold the bodywork on!

If they would offer a bare-bones 2.5L with a 5-speed and vinal seats, I would happly drive it as a daily-driver. But not for $22k, either.