Does a Subaru have a clutch?
Yes—if the vehicle uses a manual transmission. Most modern Subarus rely on a CVT (Lineartronic) or traditional automatic, which do not require a clutch pedal; however, cars with a manual gearbox do use a clutch to engage gears.
How Subaru transmissions differ
Subaru’s current lineup mixes manual and automatic options. Here’s how they break down across recent models and trims.
- Manual transmission: A traditional gearbox with a clutch pedal is available on sport-oriented Subarus, notably the BRZ and, in many markets, the WRX. These models require the clutch pedal to engage and disengage the engine from the transmission during gear changes.
- Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission): This is the common setup for most Subarus like the Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, Impreza, and Legacy. There is no clutch pedal, and the transmission uses a variable-pitch pulley system (with a belt) and sometimes a simulated “Manual” mode for paddle shifters or shift gates.
- Conventional automatic with torque converter: Some older or specific models use a traditional automatic transmission with a torque converter. There is still no clutch pedal for the driver, but internal clutch packs operate inside the transmission to change gear ratios as you drive.
In practice, the presence of a clutch depends on the transmission you choose. Manual Subarus require a clutch pedal; CVTs and most traditional automatics do not, though automatics may still contain internal clutches or a torque converter with a lock-up clutch.
How to tell if your Subaru has a clutch
If you’re shopping for a Subaru or trying to identify your current car’s transmission, these cues help distinguish a clutch-driven system from a clutch-free one.
- Look at the pedals: three pedals (in addition to the accelerator and brake) indicate a manual transmission with a clutch pedal.
- Check the gear selector: a conventional automatic or CVT often shows P, R, N, D with optional “Manual” or +/- shifting; a dedicated clutch pedal is usually absent on these models.
- Review the model and trim: sport models like the BRZ (and certain WRX configurations in some markets) are typically offered with a manual transmission, while most SUVs and sedans use CVT or a conventional automatic.
- Consult the owner’s manual or the window sticker (MSRP/spec sheet): it will list the transmission type—manual (MT), CVT, or automatic (A/T).
If you’re still unsure, a dealer can confirm the exact transmission setup for a given model and year.
Summary
For Subaru owners and buyers, the key takeaway is transmission-based: manual Subarus have a clutch pedal and require you to operate a clutch, while most of Subaru’s current mainstream models use a CVT or traditional automatic that does not involve a clutch pedal. AutomaticSubarus may still employ internal clutches or a torque converter, but the driver does not engage a clutch manually. Check the model, trim, and official specifications to know which system your Subaru uses.
