Subaru to reveal WRX with STI manual gearbox in November 2026

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 01:32 · Archive

Subaru will reveal a new WRX equipped with an STI manual gearbox in November 2026, likely for the Japanese market only.

Subaru has announced a November 2026 reveal date for a new WRX sedan equipped with an STI manual gearbox. This will be the first of three new manual-transmission models the Japanese brand promised to introduce by 2027.

The WRX will receive the TY85 transmission, a six-speed unit last used in the most recent WRX STI, which was discontinued in 2021. Subaru stated that it 'aims to revive Subaru's WRX' with this model. Engineers discovered the TY85's production line was still intact and functional, allowing it to be restarted. The new manual WRX will be a regular production model rather than a special edition.

Subaru says the model incorporates technology and knowledge derived from motorsport, with several undisclosed refinements intended to capture the spirit of old-school Subaru manuals. It is unknown whether the car will feature the STI's Driver Controlled Centre Differential system.

However, the new manual WRX is likely to be Japan-only. Subaru has positioned it as a reintroduction of the manual WRX to its home market, where such a model is not currently offered, despite manual WRXs being available in other global showrooms including Australia.

How it is being reported

• Subaru WRX with STI manual teased, reveal date setSubaru is set to reveal a new WRX equipped with an STI manual gearbox, but don't count on an Australian introduction.Perth Now · 23 Oct, 01:12
• Subaru WRX with STI manual teased, reveal date setSubaru is set to reveal a new WRX equipped with an STI manual gearbox, but don't count on an Australian introduction.The West Australian · 23 Oct, 01:11

In this story: Subaru · Japan · Australia

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