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What years of WRX are automatic?

The Subaru WRX, a high-performance sports car known for its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system, has been offered with both manual and automatic transmission options over the years. While the WRX is primarily associated with its manual gearbox, Subaru has made automatic transmissions available for certain model years.


Automatic Transmission Years for the Subaru WRX


Subaru has offered automatic transmission options for the WRX in the following model years:



  • 2005-2007 WRX: Subaru introduced an optional 4-speed automatic transmission for the second-generation WRX during this period.

  • 2015-2021 WRX: The current-generation WRX has been available with an optional Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT).


It's important to note that the manual transmission has remained the standard and more popular choice for WRX enthusiasts, as it provides a more engaging driving experience. The automatic options have been offered primarily to cater to those who prefer the convenience of an automatic gearbox.


Reasons for Automatic Transmission Availability


Subaru has made automatic transmission options available for the WRX for a few key reasons:



  • Broader Market Appeal: Offering an automatic transmission option can make the WRX more accessible to a wider range of customers who may prefer the convenience of an automatic gearbox.

  • Fuel Efficiency: Automatic transmissions, particularly the more advanced CVT units, can often provide better fuel efficiency compared to manual transmissions.

  • Accessibility for Certain Drivers: Automatic transmissions can be more suitable for drivers who may have difficulty operating a manual gearbox, such as those with physical limitations or in heavy traffic conditions.


However, it's important to note that the manual transmission remains the preferred choice for many WRX enthusiasts, as it provides a more engaging and responsive driving experience that is closely associated with the WRX's performance-oriented character.

Is the 2024 WRX manual or automatic?


Drivers will also see the 2024 WRX have either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission, with the CVT transmission boasting a faster 0-60 MPH time of 5.4 seconds. That said, the manual transmission hits 60 MPH in 5.5 seconds, so this doesn't make a *major* difference.



When did WRX become automatic?


2015
2015 - 2021 Subaru WRX (3rd Generation)
A six-speed manual gearbox was standard and, controversially, the alternative to the manual was a continuously variable automatic transmission to increase fuel economy.



Which WRX has automatic transmission?


The 2022 Subaru WRX comes standard with a fully synchronized 6-speed manual transmission on all of its trims aside from the GT–which comes with a Subaru Performance Transmission. However, the base trim for the WRX can also include an 8-speed shiftable, automatic option.



Is a WRX quicker than a STI?


Overall, the key difference between the Subaru WRX and WRX STI is performance. The Subaru STI is the more powerful and performance-oriented of the two. It comes with a bigger engine, stiffer springs, thicker tires, more powerful brakes, and more. By comparison, the WRX isn't something to sleep on.



When did Subaru stop making manual transmissions?


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.



Did they make automatic WRX STI?


While this only came in manual for most of its models. In the G3 generation of the Impreza wrx sti, an auto version was available.



What does WRX STI stand for?


Subaru Tecnica International
The STI model of the Subaru WRX was developed in 1994, for all Subaru vehicles, by Subaru Tecnica International (STI), a division of the Subaru Corporation that specializes in motorsport vehicles today, STI (or "STi" as it was labeled after 2006) exists as a trim level for other Subaru models, such as the WRX and ...



What year did Subarus have transmission problems?


Although it is common to have premature transmission failure on some Subaru models built between 2012 and 2017, Subaru had stated that these vehicles had defects in their transmissions when they were manufactured.



Will there be a 2025 WRX?


The 2025 Subaru WRX will be offered in four trim levels: Premium, Limited, GT, and tS. Last year's base WRX configuration has been discontinued. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on all trim levels, except the GT.



What is the fastest automatic WRX?


It's called the Subaru WRX Project Midnight, it's very black and it packs a Nissan GT-R beating 670 horsepower.


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.