Subaru Wonders if Dropping Manual Transmissions for SUVs Was a Mistake
Most automakers have dropped manual transmission in America, including Subaru. But the Japanese automaker may have realized that it made a mistake. It’s asking drivers how likely they would be to buy SUVs with manual transmissions.
Subaru asks drivers if they want manual transmissions
Subaru has been surveying drivers about manual transmissions. It asks if drivers would be likely to buy SUVs with a manual transmission. This can only mean that the Japanese automaker is thinking about bringing them back.
As an auto enthusiast, manual options by Subaru have held a legendary status. This is especially true among people who regularly drive in inclement winter conditions.
But there is a reason why a majority of automakers only offer cars with automatic transmissions in the United States. Manual options suffered from massive sales declines.
So Subaru will probably only bring them back if there is enough interest and demand to implement the change. People share that they only keep their old Outback and WRX models around because of the manual transmission.
Subaru still offers six-speed manuals in the WRX and BRZ cars, leaving SUVs such as the Crosstrek and Forester feeling left out. The WRX is the most popular manual car in America as it crushes the Supra, Civic, and Corolla.
Perhaps the automaker would gain SUV sales if it offered manual setups again. Drivers share that they would immediately buy new SUVs if they were manuals.
Currently, the only SUVs available as manuals in America are the Jeep Wrangler or the Ford Bronco. So why not add to the competition if the demand is there? Drivers, if you want more manual SUVs, then SPEAK UP.
