What Subaru models do not have CVT?
The BRZ sports coupe and the WRX performance sedan are the two Subaru models that do not use a CVT. Both offer traditional manual transmissions, and neither is limited to a Lineartronic CVT in the United States as of 2025.
Subaru generally equips most of its lineup with a CVT (Lineartronic) to optimize fuel efficiency and smooth all-wheel-drive performance. However, for driving enthusiasts, the BRZ and WRX provide non-CVT transmission choices, remaining exceptions in the current market.
Models without CVT
Below is a brief look at the current Subaru lineup that does not rely on a CVT, along with notes about their transmission options.
- BRZ
- WRX
In brief, the BRZ offers a 6-speed manual as well as a conventional 6-speed automatic (non-CVT), while the WRX is available with a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed conventional automatic. Neither model uses a CVT in its current generation.
BRZ specifics
The BRZ is a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe developed with Toyota. It is offered with a 6-speed manual transmission as standard, and an optional conventional 6-speed automatic is available, which is not a CVT. This setup emphasizes engagement and traditional shifting characteristics.
WRX specifics
The WRX is Subaru’s turbocharged performance sedan. It can be equipped with a 6-speed manual or a conventional 8-speed automatic. There is no CVT option for the WRX in the current generation, aligning with its sport-oriented design.
Summary
Summary: Among Subaru’s current models, only the BRZ and the WRX do not use CVTs. The rest of Subaru’s lineup relies on CVTs (Lineartronic) or similar transmissions, prioritizing efficiency and smoothness across most models.
