Subaru will bring back a manual transmission in its Japanese-market WRX sedan by late 2026, filling a long-standing gap for fans who preferred stick shifts over the brand’s usual continuously variable transmission (CVT). This will be the first time a mass-produced WRX with a manual option has been available since the previous generation, though the gearbox will differ from those in U.S. models or the limited-run WRX STI Sport.
The returning transmission is the robust TY85 six-speed unit, last seen in the discontinued previous-generation WRX STI. Subaru’s engineers nearly abandoned the project entirely—production lines were being dismantled as part of the automaker’s electrification push. However, after locating a partner facility still operational, they revived the initiative in early 2025, completing development in just one year while maintaining motorsport-level precision.
The TY85 is not merely a throwback; it has been paired with engine tuning drawn from Subaru’s racing heritage. As a result, the turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer engine now delivers throttle response more reminiscent of a naturally aspirated motor, according to the engineers who tested it. When combined with the WRX’s latest chassis, this setup promises a driving experience unlike earlier versions, though no updates to styling or chassis details have been confirmed for the new model.
To make room for the manual WRX, Subaru will discontinue the CVT-equipped WRX S4 and STI Sport trims in Japan. The manual version’s launch in November 2026 will make it one of three new manual Subaru models arriving by 2027, joining a lightweight BRZ coupe with sharp aerodynamics and an unnamed five-door hatchback.
Subaru has not yet confirmed whether the TY85 manual WRX will ever be sold in North America. The company did announce a 2027 WRX GD25 special edition for the U.S., limited to 350 units, featuring the simpler TY75 manual, gold-accented 19-inch wheels, and upgraded brakes. That model retains the standard 271-horsepower boxer engine.
This revival in Japan represents a direct response to enthusiast demand, though it remains unclear whether the TY85’s return will attract global buyers away from automatic transmissions or remain a specialized option for a shrinking but passionate segment.
Documentary and Potential North American Expansion
A development documentary titled The path to the revival of a mass-produced MT model has been released on Subaru’s official teaser page. The 15-minute film details the decision-making and technical process behind reintroducing the TY85 manual transmission for the WRX, confirming earlier reports about its return.
Subaru has not yet revealed plans for wider availability of the WRX with the STI-sourced manual transmission. However, industry speculation suggests it could eventually reach North America as part of model year updates for 2027 or 2028, though no confirmation has been provided.
