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What gearbox does Subaru use?

Subaru, the renowned Japanese automaker, is known for its robust and reliable vehicles, and a key component of their drivetrain is the gearbox. Subaru's gearbox, often referred to as a transmission, plays a crucial role in transferring power from the engine to the wheels, ensuring a smooth and efficient driving experience.


Subaru's Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)


Subaru's primary gearbox offering is the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The CVT is a type of automatic transmission that uses a belt or chain to provide an infinite number of gear ratios, rather than the fixed gear ratios found in traditional automatic transmissions. This design allows the engine to operate at its most efficient rpm range, resulting in improved fuel economy and a more responsive driving feel.


Subaru's CVT technology has evolved over the years, with the latest iterations featuring advanced features such as paddle shifters, simulated gear steps, and enhanced responsiveness. These improvements have helped to address some of the common criticisms associated with earlier CVT designs, such as the "rubber band" effect and a lack of responsiveness.p>

The Benefits of Subaru's CVT


Subaru's use of the CVT in its vehicles offers several key benefits:



  • Improved Fuel Efficiency: The CVT's ability to maintain the engine at its most efficient rpm range helps to maximize fuel economy, making Subaru vehicles more environmentally friendly and cost-effective to operate.

  • Smooth and Responsive Driving: The CVT's seamless power delivery and lack of gear shifts provide a smooth and responsive driving experience, enhancing the overall driving dynamics of Subaru's vehicles.

  • Durability and Reliability: Subaru's CVT designs are known for their durability and reliability, with many Subaru owners reporting long-lasting performance from their transmissions.


While Subaru does offer a traditional manual transmission in some of its models, the CVT has become the predominant gearbox choice for the majority of Subaru's lineup, reflecting the company's commitment to providing a balance of performance, efficiency, and reliability.

What is the strongest Subaru gearbox?


6-speed STI box
The 6-speed STI box was designed by Subaru with motorsport in mind. It is by far the best and strongest gearbox Subaru have ever made, and with the highest level of operability.



What brand of transmission does Subaru use?


Lineartronic® CVT
Lineartronic® CVT, or Continuously Variable Transmission, is the type of automatic transmission used across the Subaru line-up.



Why avoid CVT transmission?


CVTs can be hard to get used to because they just don't feel the same way a traditional automatic does. The engine sound is monotonous, and you don't feel a connection with the car like you do when you can tell a gear has shifted.



What are the 4 types of Subaru transmissions?


List of Subaru transmissions

  • 1.1 Three-speed. 1.1.1 3AT. 1.1.2 3AT 1st revision. 1.1.3 3AT.
  • 1.2 Four-speed. 1.2.1 ACT-4 or VTD. 1.2.2 4EAT.
  • 1.3 Five-speed. 1.3.1 5EAT.
  • 1.4 Six-speed. 1.4.1 6EATT. 1.4.2 A960E.



What years did Subaru have CVT problems?


The models and years that were affected mainly by transmission issues are:

  • Crosstrek, 2013 – 2015.
  • Crosstrek Hybrid, 2014 – 2015.
  • Forester (2.0 and 2.5 liter engines), 2014 – 2015.
  • Impreza, 2012 – 2015.
  • Legacy, 2010 – 2015.
  • Legacy 3.6L V6, 2015.
  • Outback, 2010 – 2015.
  • Outback 3.6L V6, 2015.



What is the smoothest gearbox?


The CVT gearbox offers a smooth and seamless driving experience, resulting in better driving dynamics in heavy traffic conditions.



Is CVT better than automatic transmission?


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 brand of CVT does Subaru use?


Lineartronic Subaru CVT
Lineartronic Subaru CVT Transmission
After trying to improve this process, Subaru engineers developed the Lineartronic CVT transmission. This CVT transmission, mounted longitudinally with a Subaru All-Wheel Drive, chain rather than a belt.



Does Subaru still use CVT transmission?


While both Subaru and Nissan offer vehicles with continuously variable transmissions (CVT), they do not use the same CVT transmissions. Subaru produces their own CVT transmissions which are specifically designed for their vehicles. These transmissions are produced in-house by Subaru and are called Lineartronic CVT.



Is Honda CVT better than Subaru CVT?


The number one disadvantage of owning a Honda with a CVT is the high failure rate. Unfortunately, we are seeing a high failure rate of CVTs in our area. That being said, Honda CVTs are failing at a lower rate than some other manufacturers like Nissan and Subaru.


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.