The 2027 Subaru WRX STI will offer a manual transmission next year, but American buyers will not be able to order one. Subaru confirmed the stick shift will be a standard option in Japan from November 2026. For a performance brand that has been drifting toward automatics, this is a surprising course correction with a very specific geographic catch.
2027 Subaru WRX STI Clutch Comeback
The manual began as a limited-edition WRX STI Sport, but popular demand has made it permanent. Subaru is leaning on existing hardware rather than starting from scratch. Subaru’s hybrid direction, seen in the Subaru Levorg Layback S:HEV, shows the brand is hedging its bets across the lineup.
Recycled Gearbox, Race-Bred Software
Reusing a proven box is smart platform economics. The TY85, a heavy-duty unit from the previous WRX STI, was already nearing retirement. Subaru says integration with the new WRX took just one year, which suggests most of the engineering heavy lifting was done early. Engineers also borrowed engine control mapping from Subaru race cars to sharpen throttle response on the turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer.
| ⚙️Engine / Powertrain | 2.4L Turbocharged Boxer Four |
| 🐎Power Output | 271 HP (est.) |
| ⚡Peak Torque | 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) (est.) |
| ⏱️0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) | 0-60 mph in 5.0s (est.) |
| 🚀Top Speed | 150 mph (241 km/h) (est.) |
| 🔄Drivetrain / Gearbox | 6-Speed Manual / AWD |
| 💰Starting Price / Est. | ¥5,000,000 (est., Japan only) |
The 2027 Subaru WRX STI could feel far more alive as a result, especially in the mid-range. Still, the real test is whether the TY85 clutch and synchros handle daily traffic as well as they handle a track day. Ultimately, that durability question will decide whether this gearbox earns its place.
Why America Gets Left Out
Japanese buyers have historically shown a stronger appetite for three-pedal performance cars than US shoppers. That makes the Japan-only strategy easier to justify on paper. Pricing has not been confirmed, but expect a premium over the automatic, with estimates near ¥5.0 million (est.). Enthusiasts in the States will feel the omission sharply.
Final Verdict: A Future Collector Stick
This decision creates a scarcity play. Expect Japanese-market manuals to command a premium on the import market as the car ages. According to Subaru, the manual goes on sale in November 2026, and the window for buyers is short. Those who want a stick-shift WRX STI should start planning now.
Liam Campbell
Industry Intelligence & News Editor at Auto News Magazine. Tracking prototype spy shots, Nürburgring development mules, automaker corporate moves, and breaking global automotive scoops.
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