Can you get a Crosstrek with manual transmission?
No. In the United States, the Crosstrek is not offered with a manual transmission in current model years; Subaru's Crosstrek lineup uses automatic transmissions only (CVT or hybrid eCVT). As of 2024–2025, there is no manual option in the U.S. market.
Current transmission options in the Crosstrek
The following summarizes the transmission choices available to buyers today in the U.S. market.
- 2.0-liter engine paired with a symmetrical CVT (Lineartronic) as the standard setup on most trim levels.
- Crosstrek Hybrid uses a 2.0-liter engine with an electric motor and an eCVT; no manual option.
- All-wheel drive is standard or widely available across trims, with the CVT as the primary transmission pairing.
Bottom line: No manual transmission is offered on current Crosstrek models in the U.S.
Historical context and regional notes
To understand why the Crosstrek is not offered with a manual today, here is a brief look at historical context and regional differences.
- In earlier generations and certain markets, a manual transmission was available on some Crosstrek variants, but Subaru phased out the option in the U.S. market over time.
- Other regions have had varied offerings in the past, but the current global lineup emphasizes CVT or hybrid powertrains for the Crosstrek.
In practice, Subaru has positioned the Crosstrek as an efficient, all-wheel-drive crossover that pairs best with a smooth CVT rather than a traditional manual gearbox.
Alternatives for manual-transmission enthusiasts
If a manual transmission is a hard requirement, there are a few paths to consider within the broader Subaru family or the broader market.
- Impreza hatchback (in generations that offered a manual) — a closer family member to the Crosstrek with an available manual in certain years and trims.
- WRX or BRZ — performance-oriented Subarus that commonly offer manual transmissions; these are not crossovers, but they satisfy a desire for a manual gearbox.
- Used or older Crosstrek models — depending on stock and year, some used examples may exist with a manual in certain markets; verify with dealers and confirm the specific transmission.
Ultimately, for most buyers seeking a Crosstrek today, the CVT is the only option; but if a manual is essential, explore other Subaru models or the used market for older Crosstrek generations where a manual might have been offered.
Summary
The Crosstrek does not offer a manual transmission in current U.S. model years. If a manual gearbox is a must-have, consider alternative Subaru models with manuals (such as older Impreza variants or performance-focused WRX/BRZ) or look into the used market for older Crosstrek generations that may have had a manual option. For the latest availability, consult a local Subaru dealer or the official Subaru site.
Does the 2025 Crosstrek come in manual?
If you prefer the power of the 2.5L SUBARU BOXER four-cylinder engine, you'll find that this engine is standard across most Crosstrek trims. It produces up to 182 horsepower, and comes equipped with a Lineartronic CVT with adaptive control, incline start assist, and eight-speed manual mode with paddle shifters.
Is the Subaru crosstrek manual discontinued?
They discontinued the MT from the Crosstrek due to sales. A very small percentage of Crosstrek owners want manuals while a majority of WRX owners want manual. It was a cost decision. Rob Neiswenter and yet in 2023 they made more MT's than any other year and sold all of them.
Does the Subaru Crosstrek come in manual transmission?
No, the newest Subaru Crosstrek models do not come with a manual transmission option; 2023 was the last model year for which a manual was available. Manual transmissions were previously offered on the base and Premium trims, but they are no longer an option for current models.
- Last model year: The 2023 model year was the last to feature a manual transmission.
- Automatic only: Newer Crosstrek models are only available with an automatic Lineartronic CVT.
- Differences with manual: In previous models, the manual transmission versions had a constant 50/50 power split to the wheels and did not include safety features like EyeSight driver assist technology.
Which Subaru has manual transmission?
The Subaru WRX, WRX STI, and BRZ are currently available with manual transmissions, along with the Impreza and Crosstrek, although manual options are becoming more limited. The specific transmission type and number of gears vary by model. For example, the WRX and BRZ typically feature a 6-speed manual, while the Impreza offers a 5-speed, and the Crosstrek comes with a 6-speed.
Currently available models
- Subaru WRX: Available with a 6-speed manual transmission on Standard, Premium, and Limited trims.
- Subaru WRX STI: Available with a 6-speed manual transmission on Standard and Limited trims.
- Subaru BRZ: Available with a 6-speed close-ratio manual transmission on the Limited and tS trims.
- Subaru Impreza: The standard trim is available with a 5-speed manual transmission.
- Subaru Crosstrek: Available with a 6-speed manual transmission on the Standard and Premium trims.
What to know about Subaru manual transmissions
- Incline Start Assist: Many modern manual models include this feature, which prevents the car from rolling backward on an incline by automatically holding the brakes for a few seconds after the driver releases the brake pedal.
- Performance and control: Manual transmissions offer a more direct connection to the road, with greater torque and responsiveness for some drivers.
- Fewer options: The availability of manual transmissions in the Subaru lineup is decreasing, with fewer models offering them each year.
- Safety and technology: Some safety and technology features, like the Eyesight driver-assist system, are not available with the manual transmission in some models, such as the Crosstrek.
