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What is the strongest manual transmission on a Subaru?

Subaru is known for its robust all-wheel-drive systems and reliable engines, but the brand also offers some of the most capable manual transmissions on the market. The strongest manual transmission available on a Subaru is the Subaru Boxer engine's 6-speed manual gearbox, which is found in several of the automaker's high-performance models.


Subaru's Boxer Engine and Manual Transmission


Subaru's signature Boxer engine design, with its horizontally-opposed cylinders, provides a low center of gravity that enhances the vehicle's handling and stability. This engine configuration also allows Subaru to pair it with a durable 6-speed manual transmission that can handle high levels of torque and power. The Subaru 6-speed manual is renowned for its smooth, precise shifting and robust construction, making it one of the strongest manual gearboxes available in a production vehicle.


High-Performance Subaru Models with the 6-Speed Manual


Subaru offers the 6-speed manual transmission in several of its high-performance models, including the WRX, WRX STI, and BRZ. These models are designed to take full advantage of the manual gearbox's capabilities:



  • Subaru WRX: The WRX is Subaru's iconic turbocharged sports sedan, known for its impressive acceleration, handling, and all-wheel-drive traction. The 6-speed manual transmission is standard on the WRX, allowing drivers to fully control the 268 horsepower engine.

  • Subaru WRX STI: The high-performance WRX STI takes the manual transmission to the next level, pairing it with a 310 horsepower turbocharged Boxer engine. The 6-speed manual is the only transmission option for the WRX STI, ensuring maximum driver engagement and control.

  • Subaru BRZ: The BRZ is Subaru's lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car, designed for pure driving enjoyment. The 6-speed manual transmission is the standard gearbox, complementing the BRZ's nimble handling and 205 horsepower Boxer engine.


Subaru's commitment to the manual transmission, even in its high-performance models, is a testament to the brand's focus on driver engagement and the joy of shifting gears. The 6-speed manual gearbox found in these Subaru models is one of the strongest and most capable manual transmissions available in a production vehicle today.

What is the strongest gear in a manual car?


The strongest gear in a car believe it or not is actually your reverse gear, when I was learning to drive many years ago I was told this if ever I got stuck on a steep hill, because of its low gear ratio reverse has the most pulling power of all the gears.



What is the strongest manual transmission Subaru?


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. The six-speed gear set is nearly twice the size of the 5-speed and twice as strong.



What car has most reliable manual transmission?


Here are 20 of the best cars with a manual gearbox available in...

  • Toyota GR Supra. We're going to be upfront in saying Toyota is going to carry a large amount of this list.
  • Kia Forte GT.
  • Volkswagen Golf R.
  • BMW M2.
  • Nissan Z.
  • Mini Cooper.
  • BMW Z4.
  • Subaru WRX.



What is the most powerful manual transmission car?


11 Most Powerful Cars Ever With A Manual Gearbox

  • 8 2023 Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat.
  • 7 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1.
  • 6 2024 Aston Martin Victor.
  • 5 2024 Pagani Utopia. Pagani.
  • 4 2026 NILU Hypercar. ​​​​​​
  • 3 2024 Koenigsegg CC850. Koenigsegg.
  • 2 2016 Hennessey Venom GT Spyder. Hennessey.
  • 1 2025 Hennessey Venom F5-M Roadster. Close.



What Subaru models have transmission problems?


Affected models include:

  • 2010-2015 Legacy.
  • 2010-2015 Outback.
  • 2012-2015 Impreza.
  • 2013-2015 Crosstrek.
  • 2014-2015 Crosstrek Hybrid.
  • 2014-2015 Forester with 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine.
  • 2014-2015 Forester with turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
  • 2015 WRX 2.0.



What is the difference between TR580 and TR690 transmission?


The TR690 is heavier and longer and is installed in larger vehicles such as the Ascent. The TR580, with its compact design, is used in smaller models such as the Impreza. Many turbocharged Subaru models use the TR690, which is suited for heavy-duty applications and features a higher torque capacity.



Why is Subaru discontinuing manual transmission?


Subaru has stated that due to low sales numbers of manual models it was not financially feasible to R&D how to make eyesight work with manual gearboxes and EyeSight integration is a major priority. This is why MY23 was the last year of availability.



What subarus have TR580 transmission?


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.



What was the last year Subaru made a manual transmission?


Driving enthusiasts who want a manual transmission will have even fewer choices now in Subaru vehicles after the 2023 model year. For example, you couldn't get a manual transmission in the Subaru Forester compact SUV after the 2018 model year and in the Subaru Outback midsize SUV and Legacy midsize sedan after 2015.



What does the gear 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 mean?


Now Let's Move on to the Numbers!
So, what do they mean? 1 & 2: These two gears are typically lower and used when driving at a slower speed. 3 & 4: These two gears are typically higher gears used when driving at a faster speed. 5: This gear is also high but is mainly used for highway driving.


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.