What Subaru models have CVT transmission?

Most Subaru models use a CVT called Lineartronic, and by 2025 that transmission is standard on the bulk of the lineup. The main exceptions are the sport-focused WRX and BRZ, which do not use a CVT in the U.S. market.

This article breaks down which Subaru models currently employ CVT transmissions, how it affects performance and fuel economy, and which models offer alternative transmissions. Transmission options can change by model year and trim, so readers should verify the latest specifications with Subaru’s official materials when shopping.

Subaru models that use CVT transmissions

Below are the Subaru passenger车型 that currently use a CVT as either their sole or standard option. These models emphasize efficiency, smooth transitions, and consistent power delivery typical of a CVT.

Overview of the CVT in Subaru cars

Subaru’s CVT is branded Lineartronic and aims to mimic a stepped feel while providing seamless gear ratios for better fuel economy. It is paired with most naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines across the lineup, including the smaller Crosstrek and larger family SUVs.

• Impreza


• Crosstrek


• Forester


• Outback


• Legacy


• Ascent

In practice, these models offer CVT across many trims, with tuning to balance responsiveness and efficiency. Some sport-oriented or higher-performance trims may emphasize other aspects, but CVT remains the standard for most configurations.

Models without CVT or notable exceptions

There are a few Subaru models and configurations that do not use the CVT, typically offering a traditional automatic or a manual transmission instead. This section highlights those cases and what to expect when shopping for these vehicles.

Manual or non-CVT performance-oriented options

Two notable Subaru models historically and currently emphasize traditional transmissions for driving enthusiasts, though availability can vary by year and region. Always check the latest specs for the exact model year you’re considering.

• WRX — typically offered with a 6-speed manual transmission; a CVT is not a standard option for the U.S. market


• BRZ — a manual-focused sports coupe developed with Toyota; does not use a CVT

While CVT is prevalent in most of Subaru’s lineup, these models cater to drivers who prefer direct gear engagement and skip the CVT’s simulated shifts. Potential buyers should confirm the current year’s transmission options on Subaru’s official site or at a dealer, as trims and offerings can evolve.

Summary

Subaru’s CVT lineup is broad and designed for efficiency, with Impreza, Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, Legacy, and Ascent all using Lineartronic CVTs in most trims as of the 2025 model year. For enthusiasts seeking a non-CVT experience, the WRX and BRZ are the primary exceptions, offering manual transmissions and, in some cases, no CVT option. Always verify the specific model-year configurations, as transmission choices can shift with new releases and regional offerings.

Which Subaru models have a CVT transmission?

Since 2014, the Lineartronic® CVT has been standard in all automatic Subaru models and trims (except the Subaru BRZ).

Why avoid CVT transmission?

You may want to avoid CVT transmissions due to concerns about their durability, potential for costly repairs, and different driving feel compared to traditional automatic transmissions. While offering better fuel economy, some CVTs have a history of premature failure, a lack of repairability, and an unengaging driving experience. 
This video explains how to avoid common problems with CVT transmissions: 58sFix & Cruise YouTube · Jun 29, 2025
Durability and reliability

• Shorter lifespan: Some models, especially earlier versions from manufacturers like Nissan, have been known to fail before reaching 100,000 miles. 
• Heat sensitivity: CVTs can be sensitive to high temperatures, which can be exacerbated by city driving with heavy traffic, and may lead to overheating and component wear. 
• Less robust: CVTs are often not built to handle heavy loads, making them unsuitable for towing trailers, campers, or boats regularly. 

This video explains why CVT transmissions can fail early: 51sGarage IQYouTube · Aug 10, 2025
Repair and maintenance

• Costly repairs: If a CVT fails, it often requires a complete replacement rather than a repair, and replacement costs can be high, ranging from thousands of dollars. 
• Lack of serviceability: Many CVTs are sealed units without a dipstick, making internal fluid checks and servicing difficult and often necessitating a full replacement upon failure. 
• Specialized parts: CVT repairs can be expensive because they require specialized parts and training, which may be harder to find. 

Driving feel and performance

• Monotonous engine sound: CVTs maintain a constant engine speed during acceleration, which can be monotonous to some drivers who prefer the feel and sound of a traditional transmission with distinct gear shifts. 
• Delayed response: There can be a slight delay when accelerating from a stop as the transmission adjusts its pulleys. 
• Performance compromise: CVTs are often optimized for fuel efficiency rather than performance, so they may feel less responsive or "listless" to drivers who prefer a sportier feel. 

This video discusses the pros and cons of CVT transmissions: 1mRealistickYouTube · Jul 26, 2024

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. 

Which lasts longer, CVT or automatic?

Both systems require care, but they wear in different ways. CVTs may need more frequent fluid changes and can be more costly to repair when they fail. Automatic transmissions tend to last longer and are often easier to service—though that depends on the make and model.