Despite a broader decline in manual transmission sales, the Subaru WRX stands out as the best-selling manual car in the U.S. for 2025. With 9,219 units sold with a stick shift, it dominates the shrinking market segment—a testament to its enduring appeal among driving enthusiasts. While Honda’s Civic Si and Type R collectively move more copies overall, the WRX boasts an impressive 85% manual transmission take rate, making it the clear leader in driver-engaged performance.
The Last Stand of the Manual Transmission
The automotive industry is shifting toward automatic transmissions, prioritizing ease of use over driver involvement. However, a niche but dedicated fanbase continues to demand the raw experience of a manual gearbox. The WRX caters specifically to this audience, offering a six-speed mechanical transmission paired with Subaru’s signature symmetrical all-wheel drive and active torque vectoring. This combination delivers a visceral driving experience that many competitors lack.
Performance and Mechanical Details
The 2025 WRX is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine producing 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This setup enables a 0-60 mph time of around six seconds, and the all-wheel drive system ensures consistent traction on both the track and public roads. The car’s electronically governed top speed of 145 mph is sufficient for spirited driving, while the tS trim adds STI-tuned dampers and Brembo brakes for further refinement.
The WRX achieves a respectable 19/26/22 MPG (city/highway/combined) on the EPA cycle, offering a balance between performance and efficiency. Subaru has engineered this model for agile handling with MacPherson struts up front and a double-wishbone setup in the rear.
Trims, Pricing, and Value
Subaru offers the 2025 WRX in three primary trims: Premium, Limited, and tS. The Premium starts at $37,750, providing a solid base with modern features like an 11.6-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and LED headlights. The Limited ($42,130) adds premium audio, navigation, and power-adjustable seats. The tS ($47,705) brings a digital instrument cluster and STI-tuned dampers.
Notably, the WRX holds its value exceptionally well, losing approximately 35.3% over five years—a competitive rate for a performance vehicle. Total cost of ownership over 60,000 miles is estimated between $47,357 and $60,745, depending on maintenance and repair needs.
Reliability and Ownership Experience
Consumer reports indicate the WRX has improved reliability compared to older models, with a projected lifespan of 11.8 years or 133,989 miles before major mechanical issues. Subaru backs this with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
The WRX receives an average owner rating of 4.7/5 on Edmunds, with praise for its driving dynamics, value, and visual appeal. Despite some criticisms regarding road noise and visibility, the model maintains a loyal following due to its unique blend of performance and practicality.
The 2025 Subaru WRX demonstrates that there’s still a strong market for enthusiast-focused vehicles. By prioritizing driving engagement and offering a reliable, well-equipped package, Subaru continues to cater to a shrinking but dedicated segment of drivers.
