Subaru is quietly testing customer interest in bringing manual transmissions back to its SUV lineup. Recent internal surveys, shared by users on Reddit, suggest the company is exploring demand for both a general manual SUV and, more specifically, a manual version of the Outback Wilderness. This move is notable given the broader automotive trend toward phasing out manual gearboxes.
The Surveys: What Subaru Is Asking
The surveys, sent directly to customers via email, pose direct questions about their willingness to purchase a manual SUV. One survey asks if customers would consider buying a manual SUV “in the future,” while another focuses specifically on whether they’d be interested in a manual Outback Wilderness. Response options range from strong interest (“Definitely”) to complete disinterest (“Definitely Not”).
Why This Matters: A Niche Market in a Changing Landscape
The fact that Subaru is even asking about this is significant. Automakers rarely survey for products they have no intention of building. The manual transmission is fading rapidly, but a small, dedicated enthusiast base still exists. Subaru has traditionally catered to this demographic, offering manuals in the BRZ and WRX even as other manufacturers dropped them.
The broader context is crucial: the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler remain the only two SUVs in the US market offering a manual transmission. Subaru’s potential entry could directly compete with these models, appealing to off-road enthusiasts who prefer the control and engagement of a manual gearbox.
Recent History: Manuals Fade From Subaru’s Lineup
Subaru discontinued manual options in its SUVs relatively recently. The Crosstrek lost its manual in 2023, the Forester in 2018, and the Outback around 2014. This suggests the company isn’t entirely opposed to reintroducing the option if demand warrants it.
The Takeaway: Don’t Hold Your Breath, But…
While these surveys don’t guarantee a new product, they indicate Subaru is seriously considering the possibility. Automakers often use surveys to gauge market appetite before committing to development. For Subaru fans who crave a manual SUV, this is a glimmer of hope. Whether it translates into a real vehicle remains to be seen.
The reality is, Subaru may simply be gathering data for future reference. But the fact that the question is being asked at all suggests a potential shift in strategy—one that could resonate with a dedicated, if small, segment of buyers.
