Yes, we know, modern automatics are faster. If you look at the 0 to 100kph times of automatic (or dual-clutch) versions of performance cars these days, you might be surprised these are usually quicker than their manual counterparts.
Despite that, we’re glad that there are still a couple of automakers out there who still provide a third pedal and a stick shift. One of them is Subaru, and we’re glad to report that the folks from Gunma have given the WRX Wagon a manual transmission option.
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For the longest time, the Subaru WRX Wagon and its predecessor, the Levorg, was only offered with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Yes, it’s smooth, refined, and can extract performance out of the turbocharged boxer engine, but one can’t help but wonder how it’ll feel as manual. Safe to say that it’s a welcome addition to the WRX lineup.
Rather unusually, though, Subaru decided to reveal it far away from its home country. It wasn’t even introduced in one of the brand’s biggest core markets, Australia. Instead, the manual WRX Wagon made its world debut in Mexico. Anyone got tickets to Guadalajara?
Over in Mexico, preselling for the WRX Wagon has already begun for both manual and CVT versions. There, the three-pedal WRX Wagon costs 819,000 Mexican pesos, which is around P2.8 million at current exchange rates. It’s not bad at all when you consider the local model retails for P2,880,000.
The transmission aside, WRX Wagon equipped with the manual is mechanically identical to the CVT version. That means its 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine pumps out 271hp and 350Nm of torque. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard, of course. This is a Subaru after all.
It has all the right ingredients for enthusiasts. Besides, who wouldn’t want a turbocharged station wagon with a manual? That being said, should Subaru Philippines bring it in? Our hearts say yes but the business case might not make sense here. Yes, a lot of people say they would buy one, but those who can really afford it would opt for the CVT.
Still, we’re crossing our fingers. And if Subaru Philippines does offer it by some miracle, do us a favor: To those who say they'd rather have the manual over the CVT, stick to your word and actually buy it.
