A haptic control device for use in control-by-wire systems in vehicles. The haptic shift device includes a manipulandum manipulatable by a user. At least one sensor detects a position of the manipulandum. At least one electrically-controlled actuator outputs a force on the shift lever. In some embodiments, the manipulandum is moveable within a pattern and is blocked from areas outside the boundaries of the pattern. The actuator(s) can be active or passive, and/or a variable mechanical gate can be used to implement the pattern. Provided modes can include automatic, manual, and/or sequential modes. Other modes can also be provided.