Do all Subaru Crosstreks have CVT transmission?

A closer look at the Crosstrek’s transmission

Key facts about the Crosstrek’s CVT across trims and generations:

• Standard CVT across all trims and model years in the U.S. and most markets.


• No US-market Crosstrek manual transmission option.


• The transmission is Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT, engineered to work with the Crosstrek’s AWD system.


• The Crosstrek Hybrid also uses the CVT, integrated with its electric motor system.


• Some modes simulate gear changes or offer a sport/manual-style experience, but the transmission remains CVT.

In short, the Crosstrek’s transmission remains CVT across the lineup.

Model-year variations and global context

Why Subaru uses CVT in the Crosstrek

Key considerations about CVT maintenance and ownership:

• CVTs require specific maintenance practices, including fluid changes at manufacturer-recommended intervals.


• Subaru recommends using the correct CVT fluid type and having service performed by qualified technicians.


• Extended concerns about CVT reliability are generally mitigated by following maintenance schedules and cautious driving habits.

Overall, Subaru’s CVT implementation is a defining feature of the Crosstrek, shaping its efficiency, durability, and driving feel.

Bottom line and takeaway

Summary

• All current Subaru Crosstreks use a CVT (Lineartronic) in the U.S. and most markets.


• There is no factory manual transmission option for the Crosstrek.


• The Crosstrek Hybrid also uses a CVT in conjunction with its hybrid drivetrain.


• Some modes offer manual-style or sport-style shifting, but the transmission remains CVT.

In short, if you’re shopping for a Crosstrek, expect a CVT as the standard and only automatic option across the lineup, with fuel-efficiency and AWD as its hallmarks.

Do all Subaru Crosstreks have a CVT transmission?

Not all Subaru models come with a CVT. While many models, such as the Subaru Crosstrek, Outback, WRX and Forester, offer CVT as standard or optional, some models like the Subaru BRZ come with a traditional manual or automatic transmission instead.

Which lasts longer, CVT or automatic?

Both systems require care, but they wear in different ways. CVTs may need more frequent fluid changes and can be more costly to repair when they fail. Automatic transmissions tend to last longer and are often easier to service—though that depends on the make and model.

What years did Subaru have CVT transmission problems?

Subaru had significant CVT transmission problems primarily in models from the 2010 to 2015 range, particularly the first-generation Lineartronic CVT. Specific issues included torque converter clutch failures and other problems like chain slip, affecting models like the Outback, Legacy, Forester, Impreza, and Crosstrek during these years. Subaru extended the warranty for many 2010-2015 vehicles to address these early reliability issues. 
Years and models with significant CVT problems

• Outback & Legacy: 2010–2015
• Impreza: 2012–2015
• Crosstrek: 2013–2015
• Forester: 2014–2015 (with 2.5L engine); some 2014–2018 models with FB25 engine
• WRX: 2015 (2.0L engine) 

This video explains common problems with Subaru CVTs, including torque converter and valve body issues: 47sTHE CARS GURUYouTube · Jul 24, 2025
Common problems

• Torque converter clutch failure: This was a major issue in early models (around 2010–2013), causing the car to stall when stopping. The torque converter was redesigned to fix this. 
• Chain slip: This occurred in some early models, often during highway cruising. 
• Valve body and solenoid issues: These problems have been reported in various model years. 
• Oil pump chain leaks: This became an issue in later models. 

What to know

• Extended warranty: Subaru extended the CVT warranty to 10 years or 100,000 miles for many 2010–2015 vehicles due to these early problems. 
• Redesigned transmissions: Newer models (especially after 2015) generally feature improved CVTs, but some issues can still arise. 
• Maintenance is key: Proper and timely maintenance, including fluid changes, is crucial to help prevent issues. 

What Subaru models do not have CVT?

The main Subaru model without a CVT is the BRZ, which offers either a manual or a traditional automatic transmission. Subaru also produced some older models with traditional automatic transmissions, such as the 6-cylinder models of the Outback and Legacy up to the 2014 model year, and some WRX and Impreza trims are available with a manual transmission. 
Models available with manual or non-CVT automatic transmissions 

• Subaru BRZ: This is the primary model currently offered with a traditional automatic or manual transmission instead of a CVT. 
• WRX: This performance model is available with a manual transmission. 
• Impreza: Some models, particularly those with manual transmissions, may not use a CVT. 

Older models with non-CVT transmissions

• Outback/Legacy (3.6R models): From the 2010-2014 model years, these models had a traditional 5-speed automatic transmission before switching to a CVT for 2015. 
• Older models: Older Subaru models, like the Justy, were available with a CVT in the late 80s and 90s, but other transmissions were also available. 

Why Subaru primarily uses CVTs

• Fuel efficiency: CVTs help Subaru meet its fuel economy and emissions goals. 
• Cost-effectiveness: The CVT is a feasible option for Subaru to produce and develop cost-effectively. 
• Simplicity: CVTs have a simpler design with fewer large moving parts. 

This video explains the issues with Subaru CVT transmissions and which models might have problems: 48sTHE CARS GURUYouTube · Jul 24, 2025