While the manual transmission seems to be fading in the auto industry, Subaru WRX buyers are proving that there’s still a strong appetite for the classic, hands-on driving experience. The latest stats show that 83% of WRX buyers opt for the six-speed manual, making it one of the highest manual take rates among new vehicles. With the WRX’s iconic all-wheel drive and rally-inspired design, it’s clear Subaru is committed to maintaining this unique engagement for fans, even as other brands move to automatics.
The WRX’s Strong Manual Transmission Take Rate
Why WRX Buyers Are Choosing the Stick
Subaru confirmed that 83% of WRX models sold this year came with a manual transmission, a choice that has cemented the WRX as a favorite for driving purists. In an era where even high-performance models like the Porsche 911 GT3 see less than half of buyers opting for a manual, Subaru’s results are impressive. Among affordable sports cars, the WRX’s manual take rate surpasses that of the Toyota GR86 and Mazda Miata, both of which are also beloved by enthusiasts but haven’t reached the same level of manual adoption.
The WRX’s popularity for three-pedal driving isn’t just about the thrill of a manual—it’s also influenced by the less appealing alternative. While models like the Hyundai Elantra N offer a manual or a dynamic dual-clutch transmission with paddle shifters, Subaru’s automatic option is a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Although the CVT-equipped WRX can keep pace with the manual, with 0-to-60 times only marginally different, it lacks the visceral feel that true enthusiasts crave.
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Performance Focus: The WRX Experience
Driving the Manual WRX vs. the CVT
The WRX’s six-speed manual transmission brings a tactile connection to the car’s turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine, generating 271 horsepower. This setup provides an immersive experience on curvy roads or the track, allowing drivers to fully engage with the car’s powerband and precise shifts.
The CVT version of the WRX, on the other hand, is no slouch. Subaru’s engineers have designed it with eight simulated gear ratios, imitating the feel of a conventional automatic. In practice, the CVT achieves slightly faster acceleration from 0 to 60 mph but falls just short in quarter-mile times compared to the manual. However, for those craving the rally-inspired experience that made the WRX famous, the manual version stands out as the preferred choice.
Comparing to the Competition
At around the same price point, the WRX brings significant advantages over its closest competitors. The base WRX offers 70 more horsepower than a Civic Si, along with the added benefit of all-wheel drive for improved handling on various terrains. While the WRX may lack the track-tuned precision of pricier sport compacts, it’s clear that Subaru’s focus is on providing a versatile performance car that can handle both daily driving and adventurous weekend getaways.
The Manual Transmission Legacy Lives On
Subaru’s Strategy in a Changing Market
Subaru’s commitment to the manual transmission goes beyond simply offering it as an option. In a market where several automakers, including Volkswagen with its 2025 GTI, are discontinuing manual transmissions, Subaru’s approach is a testament to its understanding of the WRX’s core audience. Instead of investing in a dual-clutch transmission for the WRX, Subaru has continued to enhance its manual offering, allocating its resources to further refine the WRX’s powertrain and chassis.
The WRX’s continued success as a manual-driven model also highlights the lasting appeal of the hands-on driving experience, a trait that resonates with enthusiasts who remember the thrill of the original rally-bred WRX from the early 2000s.
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Conclusion: A Testament to Enthusiast Loyalty
As other sport compacts shift away from manual transmissions, the Subaru WRX stands out as a beacon for stick-shift enthusiasts. With its unique blend of power, all-wheel drive, and affordability, the WRX appeals to a dedicated base of drivers who prioritize engagement over convenience. While Subaru may eventually introduce a more powerful STI variant, the WRX’s strong manual sales prove there’s still a loyal fan base keeping the stick shift alive.