Did the Subaru SVX come in manual?
No, the Subaru SVX did not come in a manual transmission option. The Subaru SVX was only available with an automatic transmission during its production run from 1991 to 1997.
Detailed Overview of the Subaru SVX
The Subaru SVX was a unique and distinctive sports car produced by Subaru from 1991 to 1997. It featured a distinctive wedge-shaped design with a large glass canopy that gave the car a distinctive look. Under the hood, the SVX was powered by a 3.3-liter flat-six engine that produced 231 horsepower.
One of the key features of the Subaru SVX was its transmission. Unlike many other sports cars of the era, the SVX was only available with an automatic transmission, specifically a 4-speed automatic. Subaru did not offer a manual transmission option for the SVX at any point during its production run.
Reasons for the Automatic-Only Transmission
- Subaru's target market for the SVX was more focused on luxury and comfort rather than pure performance, so an automatic transmission was seen as a better fit.
- The flat-six engine in the SVX was not well-suited to a manual transmission, as it had a relatively narrow power band.
- Subaru wanted to differentiate the SVX from its other more performance-oriented models, which did offer manual transmission options.
- Automatic transmissions were more popular in the luxury and sports car segments at the time, so Subaru likely felt it would be a better fit for the SVX's target market.
While the lack of a manual transmission option may have been disappointing for some enthusiasts, it was a strategic decision by Subaru to position the SVX as a more refined and luxurious sports car rather than a pure performance machine.
Is the Subaru SVX fast?
The technology-laden engine is strong enough to propel the 3614-pound SVX to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds and on to a top speed of 144 mph, aided by an electronically controlled transmission that selects the necessary cogs thoughtfully and smoothly.
When did Subaru stop making manuals?
In the 2023 model year, you could still get a manual gearbox in the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek subcompact SUV base, Premium trim levels, and the 2023 Subaru Impreza compact base sedan, base hatchback, and Impreza Sport hatchback trims. But it's gone forever for the 2024 Crosstrek SUV and Impreza compact hatchback models.
Is the Subaru SVX manual?
The SVX was offered solely with an automatic transmissions, as Subaru did not offer a manual transmission capable of handling the horsepower and torque of the EG33 engine at the time.
Is a Subaru STI manual?
So, are all Subaru WRX STIs manual? As it stands, yes. Throughout its history, this iconic sports car has always been offered solely with a manual gearbox.
How many SVX are left in the US?
700 U.S.
While U.S. data is sparse, if we assume the same rate of loss, that means there should be approximately 700 U.S. models remaining. Parts are difficult to find and often at a premium, suggesting that original donor cars are becoming more scarce and valuable.
Why was the Subaru SVX discontinued?
But the real problem was that the SVX retailed for almost $10,000 more than any other Subaru despite rumors Subaru lost roughly $3,000 on each one. Those unsustainable economics led to the car's cancellation at the end of the 1996 model year with no successor planned.
Are Subaru's WRX only manual?
The 2022 Subaru WRX comes standard with a fully synchronized 6-speed manual transmission on all of its trims aside from the GT–which comes with a Subaru Performance Transmission. However, the base trim for the WRX can also include an 8-speed shiftable, automatic option.
What Subaru models come in manual?
Our performance sports cars, the Subaru BRZ and the Subaru WRX are the only two vehicles with manual transmission options available.
What does STI on Subaru stand for?
Subaru Tecnica international
Now that you know what it means to drive a Subaru WRX, what is the deal with the STi name? These letters stand for Subaru Tecnica international, which is essentially a name to describe Subaru's own motorsports program.
Why did the SVX fail?
It was the only available gearbox because Subaru didn't have a manual transmission that could effectively put up with the SVX without liquifying itself (via MotorTrend). A hefty price tag and somewhat weak transmission spelled sales disaster for Subaru. All told, the brand sold around 14,000 SVXs during its short life.
