Subaru Teases Three New Manual Models for 2027, Including New WRX STI

Subaru has long catered to outdoor enthusiasts with its SUVs and driving enthusiasts with its sporty models, often leaning into outdoorsy and motorsports-inspired special models. During the Fuji 24 Hours race in Japan, the automaker revealed plans for three new models set to offer manual transmissions, including one hatchback. There is a catch, though.

As first reported by Carscoops, the three covered vehicles are due in 2027, and all three will indeed offer a manual gearbox. Their shapes clearly suggest the WRX sedan, BRZ sports car, and Impreza five-door. Subaru says the trio is meant to make “driving more enjoyable and accessible.” Development will be handled by the Sports Vehicle Planning Office, established in March.

The WRX STI most recently offered a manual in the ultra-limited Sport Sharp for Japan, capped at 600 units. This time, the new manual STI appears less exclusive and will use the TY85 six-speed from the previous-generation WRX STI. That is good news, as it’s a heavy-duty gearbox Subaru says offers “high durability and reliability.”

The BRZ already offers the choice of a manual, but this version is more interesting than simply keeping the stick shift alive. It will be based on the STI Sport Type RA introduced last November, which featured parts developed through Subaru’s Super Taikyu racing efforts, including ZF dampers, Brembo brakes, and improved aerodynamics. It also used a highly tuned FA24 2.4-liter flat-four and was limited to 300 units, with 200 sold with a wing and 100 sold with a simpler decklid spoiler. This new version will likely borrow some of those parts, though the engine should remain the standard production unit.

The five-door Impreza is the least exciting of the three. Rather than a hot hatch Impreza STI, Subaru appears to be targeting a cheaper, more accessible trim. Still, it should appeal to Subaru fans by offering an alternative to the Lineartronic CVT.

We reached out to Subaru of America to ask if these models will come to the U.S. The company’s reply: “We’re unable to comment on any potential future vehicles at this time.” That’s not a no, so hope springs eternal.