Subaru WRX STI’s manual return teased
The stronger six-speed manual transmission from the previous Subaru WRX STI is set to soon feature in the base WRX – at least in Japan.
Subaru is slowly bringing back elements of the WRX STI flagship, teasing the imminent unveiling of its updated WRX with STI parts.
Set to be revealed in November, the Subaru WRX will get the stronger ‘TY85’ six-speed manual transmission from the previous-generation WRX STI, having been fitted with the ‘TY75’ six-speed which has been available for the WRX since 2014.
Designed to handle more power and torque as well as added abuse, the TY85 transmission was previously discontinued following the end of production for the ‘VA’-generation WRX STI, however it’s now coming back for the standard WRX – but potentially only for Japan.
Teased only for Japan, the launch of a three-pedal WRX in the market would mark the first time it’s been available since the current-generation WRX debuted in 2021, having so far only been sold with a CVT automatic in the region.
Australia and other markets have had ‘TY75’ six-speed available since launch, alongside the CVT, though the automatic is currently the only choice for the WRX wagon globally.
Subaru teased the return of the STI-derived manual for the WRX in June, though it was way back in January that it revealed its first manual-equipped version of the sedan for Japan.
At the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, Subaru unveiled the WRX STI Sport♯ Prototype, exclusive to the Japanese market, though with few differences to the WRX tS Spec B sold in Australia, except from its ‘Cherry Red’ highlights on its front bumper, side skirts and rear end.
The brand only said at the time that it would feature a six-speed manual transmission, something which is now linked to the incoming TY85 gearbox.
For context, the turbocharged 2.4-litre flat-four engine in the current ‘VB’ WRX produces 202kW and 350Nm, while the last WRX STIs – which were also the final models with Subaru’s long-running ‘EJ’ 2.5-litre engine – produced 221kW and 407Nm, requiring the stronger transmission.
“The WRX continues to run. Carrying on its legacy into the next era, the WRX continues to evolve. To keep running with you, forever,” Subaru said in a cryptic teaser.
The new STI-equipped WRX is one of three manual models Subaru has in the pipeline, with that June announcement including teasers for a hotter BRZ coupe (centre), and what is widely expected to be the returning WRX hatchback (right).
At the time, Subaru said the three vehicles would launch by 2027 and are being developed by its newly established Sports Vehicle Planning Office.
Jordan Mulach
