Subaru STI’s Heavy-Duty Six-Speed Manual ‘Box Returns in New Japanese WRX

• Subaru re-launches regular-production manual WRX in Japan.

• The new model uses the TY85 six-speed gearbox from the previous-generation WRX STI.

• Subaru has not confirmed whether the TY85-equipped WRX will reach North America.

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Subaru’s decision to restore a six-speed manual transmission to its regular-production WRX range in Japan gives the performance sedan more than simply a hardware connection to the former STI. This news also marks the return of the manual transmission to the WRX in Japan where it was last seen available in 2019.

In short, there’s no need to lament the real possibility that Canada and the U.S. will not see the TY85 in our WRX, simply because Subaru wisely never cut the manual from our catalogue.

The notchy and mechanical-feeling TY85 transmission is the heavy-duty unit previously used in the last-generation WRX STI. It differs from the TY75 six-speed fitted to the current North American WRX and to Japan’s limited-run WRX STI Sport♯. That special edition was restricted to 600 cars allocated by lottery; the forthcoming model will be a permanent addition to Japan’s lineup.

Subaru’s development documentary on YouTube traces the gearbox’s return to a production application. Engineers believed suppliers and automakers had dismantled its assembly equipment as they wound down manual-transmission production. They later learned a partner plant still had an active production line, giving the project a viable starting point.

The documentary also places the project against the backdrop of electrification, as manual-transmission assembly capacity was being removed. Subaru’s team had to confirm it could still source and build the TY85 before adapting it for a new, mass-market application.

A small internal team began work in early 2025. The group used a motorsport-style development process to finish the programme in about a year. The project included more than fitting the older gearbox into the current sedan: engineers also revised engine-control software for the application.

The calibration draws on Subaru’s racing programme and sharpens the WRX’s turbocharged 2.4L flat-four’s response to inputs. Engineers involved in testing say the engine, TY85 and current chassis deliver a different driving character from earlier WRX generations. Subaru has not released output figures or detailed mechanical specifications for the Japanese model; however, no changes are expected.

The new manual car will replace the CVT-equipped WRX S4 STI Sport grades in Japan. Subaru has not said whether it will receive distinct exterior or chassis changes. We can assume details will emerge closer to the November introduction.

The Japanese launch is part of a planned trio of manual Subaru models by 2027. The other two are a lighter, more aerodynamically aggressive BRZ and a five-door hatchback that has not yet been named. Subaru has not confirmed whether either model will be sold in North America.