What was the last year Subaru made a manual transmission?
There is no final year in which Subaru stopped offering a manual transmission; as of the 2024 model year, manual gearboxes are still available on two Subaru models: the WRX and the BRZ. In other words, Subaru has not announced a complete retirement of manuals, and shoppers can still find new Subarus with a 6-speed manual in these two sports-focused cars.
Which current Subaru models offer manuals
The following models are the ones Subaru continues to offer with a manual transmission, reflecting the brand’s current strategy to preserve a niche for driving enthusiasts.
- Subaru WRX — offers a 6-speed manual transmission, with a CVT option available in some trims or markets.
- Subaru BRZ — offers a 6-speed manual transmission as part of its standard drivetrain pairing with the turbocharged 2.4L engine.
That leaves the WRX and BRZ as the only Subaru models commonly available with a manual transmission in most markets, emphasizing Subaru’s focus on performance-oriented enthusiasts.
Historical context and how the lineup evolved
In recent years, Subaru has phased out manual options from most of its mainstream models in favor of automatic transmissions, especially CVTs. The brand has chosen to preserve manuals primarily in its two performance-focused platforms—the WRX and the BRZ—while other models like the Impreza, Forester, Outback, and Ascent have increasingly leaned toward automatic transmissions. This shift is consistent with broader industry trends toward efficiency and emissions compliance, even as enthusiasts continue to press for manual options in sportier cars.
Global market considerations
Manual availability can vary by region due to local regulations, safety requirements, and consumer demand. In many markets outside North America, Subaru maintains manuals on the WRX and BRZ, while other models rely on automatic transmissions. Prospective buyers should check local model-year specifications to confirm exact drivetrain options.
What this means for buyers and enthusiasts
For buyers seeking a new Subaru with a manual transmission, the WRX and BRZ are the two models to consider. Availability can depend on trim level and market, but both models have continued to offer a manual option through recent model years. Prospective buyers should verify the latest specifications with a dealer, as transmission options can shift with new model-year updates.
Future outlook
Subaru has not signaled an imminent end to manual transmissions in its lineup. The continued presence of a 6-speed manual in both the WRX and BRZ suggests that, for the near term, enthusiasts can expect to retain a manual option. Any future changes would likely be tied to regulatory pressures, market demand, and ongoing product strategy.
Summary
As of 2024, Subaru has not retired the manual transmission; the WRX and BRZ remain the main models offering a 6-speed manual. There is no single “last year” for manuals in Subaru’s lineup at this time, though the brand has gradually reduced manual options in other models. For drivers who want a manual Subaru, the WRX and BRZ are the models to watch in current and upcoming model years.
What subarus still have manual transmission?
Our performance sports cars, the Subaru BRZ and the Subaru WRX are the only two vehicles with manual transmission options available.
What was the last year for the manual transmission in the Subaru Outback?
2010-2014
The Fourth Generation (2010-2014)
Subaru introduced its all-new CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), plus a new six-speed manual transmission; however, the fourth generation was the last Outback generation to offer the manual transmission option.
Can you get a manual transmission in a Subaru Outback?
No, the current Subaru Outback does not have a manual transmission, and it was last offered in the 2010-2014 model years. Modern Outbacks come standard with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), but some models include an 8-speed manual mode with paddle shifters for a more engaging driving experience.
Transmission options
- Newer models: All new Subaru Outbacks come with a standard CVT automatic transmission.
- Manual mode: Many CVT Outbacks include a manual mode that can be engaged using paddle shifters on the steering wheel, allowing you to manually select gears.
- Older models: The last time a true manual transmission was available in the Outback was during the 2010-2014 model years, and it was only on lower trim levels with the 2.5-liter engine.
What was the last year the Forester has a manual transmission?
The last model year for a Subaru Forester with a manual transmission was 2018. Subaru discontinued the manual option for the Forester after that year, so 2019 and newer models are only available with an automatic CVT.
You can watch this video to see the 2018 Subaru Forester Premium with a manual transmission: 1mChester LovesCarsYouTube · Apr 6, 2018
- The 2018 model year was the final one for manual Foresters in the U.S. market.
- Subaru phased out the manual transmission for the Forester with the 2019 model year redesign.
- Therefore, if you are looking for a manual transmission Forester, your search will be limited to the years 2018 and older.
This video shows another 2018 Subaru Forester with a manual transmission: 45sChester LovesCarsYouTube · Apr 6, 2018
