Subaru is bringing a six-speed manual gearbox back to the regular Japanese WRX lineup, reviving a piece of STI heritage just as the brand prepares to phase out combustion models in Europe.

Teased ahead of its November 2026 debut, the new WRX will use the TY85 six-speed manual previously fitted to the WRX STI. Subaru says the transmission offers the durability and reliability needed for its performance-focused models, and the new WRX is being developed as a regular production car rather than another limited edition.

The move follows the Japanese-market WRX STI Sport♯, a special edition limited to 600 cars that offered a manual transmission. The upcoming model should make the three-pedal setup more accessible to Japanese enthusiasts, although Subaru has yet to confirm its final specifications, power output or pricing.

The new WRX is also part of a wider plan. Subaru intends to introduce three manual-equipped models by 2027, including a more focused BRZ derivative and a five-door hatchback inspired by the Performance-B STI concept.

There is, however, a striking contrast between Japan and Europe. Subaru is reportedly preparing to end sales of combustion-powered models across its European range by the end of 2027, leaving an all-electric new-car lineup from 2028. That would mark a major change for a brand long associated with turbocharged boxer engines and mechanical all-wheel drive.

For now, Subaru has not confirmed whether the new manual WRX will be offered outside Japan. European enthusiasts may therefore have to watch from the sidelines as the home market gets another reason to keep the traditional sports sedan alive.