Subaru Asks: Manual SUV? What Will Happen Next SHOCKS Fans!

Is Subaru about to throw a lifeline to manual transmission enthusiasts? It sounds crazy, I know, especially in this age of electric everything and paddle shifters. But a recent customer survey suggests the possibility of a manual gearbox finding its way into the Outback Wilderness. Yes, you read that right. A manual SUV. From Subaru. In 2024. I had to read it twice myself.

Subaru Asks: Manual SUV? What Will Happen Next SHO...

The news, initially spotted on Reddit, indicates that Subaru is directly polling customers to gauge their interest in a manual transmission option for, presumably, the rugged Outback Wilderness. The survey isn't open to the public, apparently sent out as special invitations via email, according to Reddit user u/Macgyver452. Response options reportedly range from "Definitely" to "Definitely Not," which, let's be honest, probably saw a tidal wave of "Definitely" clicks from Subaru faithful. I can almost hear the collective cheer from purists who yearn for three pedals and a stick.

Now, let's be realistic. Automakers are notorious for sending out these kinds of surveys. It's market research, plain and simple. Most of the time, these inquiries don't translate into actual production models. They're just fishing for data. But here's the thing: if *any* brand's fanbase would actually put their money where their mouth is and buy a manual SUV, it's Subaru's. They're a famously loyal bunch, known for embracing the brand's quirky, outdoorsy image.

The Outback Wilderness, with its increased ground clearance and off-road enhancements, feels like the perfect candidate. Currently, the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler are practically the only SUVs left in the U.S. offering a manual. The Outback Wilderness, in many ways, competes directly with these two, making a manual transmission option seem like a smart move to differentiate itself and capture a niche market.

It's worth remembering that Subaru hasn't completely abandoned the manual. They still offer it on the BRZ and WRX, performance-oriented models that cater to driving enthusiasts. However, the manual SUV history isn't ancient. The Crosstrek lost its stick shift in 2023, the Forester in 2018, and the regular Outback around 2014. So, they haven't *completely* forgotten about it. Could this survey be the first step towards bringing it back for good? Only time will tell. But I, for one, am crossing my fingers. A manual Outback Wilderness? Sign me up!