Does the Subaru Impreza have a CVT transmission?

Yes. In the current lineup, the Subaru Impreza uses Subaru’s Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) across all trims, with no manual transmission option on recent model years. This article explains how the CVT works in the Impreza, its history, and what buyers should know when shopping for new or used models.

How a CVT works and why Subaru uses it

A CVT differs from a traditional automatic by using a belt or chain and a pair of adjustable pulleys to provide a seamless range of gear ratios. Instead of shifting through fixed gears, a CVT continually adjusts to keep the engine in its most efficient RPM range. Subaru’s version, called Lineartronic, is tuned for smoothness and fuel economy, while also offering a mode that simulates stepped gears for a more conventional feel.

Before listing features, it’s helpful to understand the key aspects that define the Impreza’s drivetrain today:

• Standard transmission across current Impreza models is the Lineartronic CVT, paired with all-wheel drive.


• The CVT is designed to provide efficient performance with smooth acceleration and typically better fuel economy than older automatic transmissions.


• Subaru’s CVT often includes simulated shift modes (such as an eight- or nine-speed feel) and a manual/hermit shift option in some trims for more direct control.

In short, today’s Impreza uses a CVT as the sole transmission choice in most markets, complementing Subaru’s hallmark all-wheel-drive system.

Current transmission setup in the Impreza

Here’s how the Impreza is configured for recent model years, focusing on what buyers can expect today:

• The latest Impreza models (roughly 2020–present) come with a Lineartronic CVT as the only available transmission in the United States and many markets.


• All trims with the CVT are paired with standard all-wheel drive, a hallmark of the model line.


• A traditional manual transmission is not offered on current Impreza models in most regions.

Conclusion: If you are shopping today, expect a CVT paired with AWD on the Impreza, with no manual option available on new vehicles.

Historical perspective: manual transmission on the Impreza

While today’s Impreza lineup is CVT-only, earlier generations did offer a traditional manual transmission as an option on some trims. The availability varied by market and model year, and Subaru gradually shifted away from manuals on the Impreza as CVTs became standard across the lineup.

• Early Impreza generations offered a 5-speed manual as a standard or available option on certain trims.


• Subsequent generations progressively favored the CVT for improved fuel economy and performance, reducing or removing manual options in many markets.


• Today, new Impreza models are CVT-only in most regions, with manuals largely available only on older used examples, if at all.

Takeaway: A manual Impreza, if found, would be from older model years; current production emphasizes the CVT, aligned with Subaru’s broader drivetrain strategy.

What to consider when buying a used Impreza

If you’re considering a used Impreza, here are practical points to keep in mind about the CVT and the drivetrain overall:

1. Check the CVT operation during a test drive — look for smooth, hesitation-free acceleration and no unusual surging or slipping.


2. Verify maintenance history for CVT fluid changes using Subaru-approved fluid and intervals, as improper maintenance can affect longevity.


3. Inspect the all-wheel-drive components and driveline for unusual noises, clunks, or vibration that could indicate wear beyond the CVT itself.


4. Remember that a manual transmission is unlikely to be found in recent used Imprezas; if you specifically want a manual, you’ll be looking at older years or different models.

Conclusion: For used buyers, prioritize CVT health, proper fluid maintenance, and the presence (or absence) of a manual option in older inventory.

Summary

The current Subaru Impreza lineup uses a Lineartronic CVT as the sole transmission option in most markets, paired with standard all-wheel drive. A traditional manual gearbox was offered in earlier generations but is not available on contemporary models. For buyers seeking a no-shift experience with AWD, the CVT remains the defining feature of the Impreza today; those after a manual transmission will need to look at older vehicles or other Subaru models with a history of manual options.

How do I know if my Subaru has CVT transmission?

You may notice a difference if you pay close attention. With a CVT, there are no gears, period, so you hear the engine rev when you press the accelerator but you never feel any power interruption as the gears change.

Which Subaru does not have CVT transmission?

The Subaru BRZ is the main Subaru model that does not come with a CVT transmission. You can get it with a traditional manual or a conventional automatic transmission instead. Some WRX models are also available with a manual transmission, but automatic versions have the Lineartronic CVT. 

• Subaru BRZ: This model is co-developed with Toyota and comes with a traditional manual or a standard automatic transmission, not a CVT. 
• Subaru WRX: This model offers a manual transmission option. 
• Other models: Most other automatic Subaru models, including the Crosstrek, Outback, and Forester, come standard with a Lineartronic CVT. 

What year does Subaru have a bad CVT?

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. 

Does the Impreza have a CVT?

Subaru Lineartronic CVT TR690 and TR580
In the US, the Lineartronic is available with the 2.5i engine in the Outback, Legacy and Forester(2014), and the 2.0 FB engine in the Impreza and slightly modified for the XV Crosstrek.