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Did the WRX ever come in automatic?

The Subaru WRX, a high-performance sports sedan known for its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system, has traditionally been offered with a manual transmission. However, the question of whether the WRX ever came in an automatic configuration is a common one among enthusiasts.


The WRX's Manual Transmission Roots


The Subaru WRX has been a staple in the performance car market since its introduction in the early 2000s. The WRX has always been known for its engaging driving experience, which has been largely attributed to its standard manual transmission. Subaru has consistently marketed the WRX as a driver's car, emphasizing the connection between the driver and the road that a manual gearbox provides.


Automatic Transmission Options


While the WRX has primarily been offered with a manual transmission, Subaru has occasionally introduced automatic transmission options for the model over the years. In some markets, such as Japan, the WRX has been available with a traditional automatic or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). However, these automatic options have not been as widely available or as popular as the manual transmission in the United States and other major markets.p>

The Debate Surrounding Automatic WRXs


The lack of widespread automatic transmission options for the WRX in the United States has been a point of contention among some enthusiasts. Some argue that an automatic WRX would broaden the model's appeal and make it more accessible to a wider range of drivers. Others, however, believe that the manual transmission is an integral part of the WRX's identity and that offering an automatic option would dilute the car's performance-oriented character.


The Future of the WRX Transmission


As the automotive industry continues to evolve, it's possible that Subaru may eventually offer an automatic transmission option for the WRX in more markets, including the United States. However, the company's commitment to the manual transmission and the WRX's performance-focused identity suggest that the manual will likely remain the primary transmission choice for the foreseeable future.p>

In conclusion, while the Subaru WRX has occasionally been available with automatic transmission options in certain markets, the manual gearbox has remained the dominant choice for this high-performance sports sedan. The debate surrounding the merits of an automatic WRX is likely to continue, but Subaru's focus on the driving experience suggests that the manual transmission will remain a core part of the WRX's identity.

What percentage of WRX are automatic?


Subaru Says Just 17% of WRX Buyers Choose the Automatic. Love for the stick shift is alive and well in the Subaru WRX community. There are, admittedly, more than the average share of automotive stereotypes about Subaru WRX owners — and, to be honest, some of them are true.



Which Subaru has the most horsepower?


Easily the most powerful and most expensive Subaru ever made, the 2019 Subaru WRX STI S209 is also rare with only 209 examples, all sold in the USA. Its EJ25 2.5-liter Turbo SUBARU BOXER engine erupts with 341 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 330 lb. -ft.



Are there any automatic WRX?


Engine, Transmission, and Performance
It's accompanied by all-wheel drive and a standard six-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission, the latter offered as an option on the Premium and Limited and standard on the GT. Depending on model, the WRX wears 17- or 18-inch summer tires.



What is the fastest automatic WRX?


It's called the Subaru WRX Project Midnight, it's very black and it packs a Nissan GT-R beating 670 horsepower.



Is the 2024 WRX manual or automatic?


Drivers will also see the 2024 WRX have either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission, with the CVT transmission boasting a faster 0-60 MPH time of 5.4 seconds. That said, the manual transmission hits 60 MPH in 5.5 seconds, so this doesn't make a *major* difference.



Is CVT better than automatic?


A CVT is lighter than a traditional automatic, and this, combined with the smoother operation, helps to improve the fuel efficiency of vehicles that come equipped with a CVT. Because of the lack of gearing, it is easier for CVT vehicles to find and maintain an ideal torque ratio as well.



What year did Subarus have transmission problems?


Although it is common to have premature transmission failure on some Subaru models built between 2012 and 2017, Subaru had stated that these vehicles had defects in their transmissions when they were manufactured.



Is a WRX quicker than a STI?


Overall, the key difference between the Subaru WRX and WRX STI is performance. The Subaru STI is the more powerful and performance-oriented of the two. It comes with a bigger engine, stiffer springs, thicker tires, more powerful brakes, and more. By comparison, the WRX isn't something to sleep on.



Are there any automatic subarus?


While stick shifts can be fun to drive, some drivers may prefer automatic transmission for everyday driving. Subaru offers automatic transmissions as standard in many trims and models of sedans, hatchbacks, SUVs, and crossovers, including the top-selling Subaru Crosstrek and Subaru Forester vehicles.



What does WRX stand for?


World Rally eXperimental
Subaru tells us that the name WRX stands for "World Rally eXperimental." Fast forward to 2015, and the WRX lineup was split from the Impreza range along with a different body style to simply be marketed as the stand-alone WRX.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.