Subaru Unveils Thrilling 2027 Manual Lineup, Including a Revitalized WRX STI!
Subaru has teased three new manual transmission models for 2027: the WRX STI, BRZ, and Impreza hatchback, aiming to make driving more enjoyable and accessible. The WRX STI will feature a durable TY85 six-speed gearbox, while the BRZ will draw inspiration from the performance-oriented STI Sport Type RA. An accessible Impreza five-door will also be offered, with potential availability in the U.S. remaining hopeful.
Subaru has announced exciting plans for 2027, revealing that three of its new models will feature manual transmissions, including a new WRX STI, BRZ, and an Impreza hatchback. This highly anticipated news, initially reported by Carscoops following a reveal at the Fuji 24 Hours race in Japan, signifies Subaru's commitment to enhancing driving enjoyment and accessibility. The development of these vehicles will be spearheaded by the Sports Vehicle Planning Office, which was established in March.
Among the new offerings, the return of the WRX STI with a manual gearbox is particularly noteworthy. Unlike previous highly exclusive editions, such as the ultra-limited Sport Sharp for Japan, this new manual STI appears to be more broadly available. It is confirmed to utilize the robust TY85 six-speed gearbox, a component from the previous-generation WRX STI known for its high durability and reliability. This decision should reassure enthusiasts about the longevity and performance of the transmission.
The BRZ, which already offers a manual option, is set to receive an even more engaging iteration. This new BRZ will draw inspiration from the STI Sport Type RA, a model introduced in November that featured significant performance upgrades derived from Subaru's Super Taikyu racing efforts. These enhancements included ZF dampers, high-performance Brembo brakes, and improved aerodynamic features. While the STI Sport Type RA was a limited-production model with a highly tuned FA24 2.4-liter flat-four engine, the upcoming manual BRZ is expected to adopt many of its performance parts, though the engine will likely remain the standard production unit.
The Impreza five-door completes the trio, targeting a slightly different market segment. While it won't be a "hot hatch Impreza STI," this version is positioned as a more affordable and accessible trim. It will appeal to Subaru fans seeking an alternative to the continuously variable transmission (Lineartronic CVT) often found in current models, providing a direct and engaging driving experience.
Regarding availability in the United States, Subaru of America offered a non-committal response, stating, “We’re unable to comment on any potential future vehicles at this time.” This cautious reply leaves room for optimism among American enthusiasts, as it does not explicitly rule out the models' introduction to the U.S. market.