Subaru recently asked American owners a simple but powerful question: would you consider buying a manual transmission SUV in the future? Even more specifically, the survey mentioned the Outback Wilderness by name, asking drivers how interested they would be if a manual option became available.

Right now, the Outback Wilderness comes exclusively with an automatic transmission. That has been the case across Subaru’s SUV lineup since 2023, when the last manual Crosstrek quietly exited production. The Outback itself has not offered a manual in more than a decade.

The Wilderness version, known for its rugged suspension tuning, raised ground clearance, and trail ready personality, would be the most logical candidate if Subaru were to experiment with a manual comeback. Enthusiasts often associate manual gearboxes with greater driver engagement, especially for light off road adventures where control matters.

Still, a survey does not guarantee production. Subaru would need more than online excitement to justify development costs. Broader buyer demand would have to prove strong enough to support engineering, certification, and global manufacturing considerations. For now, the brand appears to be measuring interest before making any serious commitment.

At the moment, Subaru only offers manual transmissions in two performance models: the WRX and the BRZ. Both continue to attract buyers who value direct engagement over convenience. In fact, a significant share of WRX buyers still choose the manual, reinforcing Subaru’s connection with driving purists.

The Crosstrek was the last SUV in Subaru’s portfolio to offer a manual gearbox, but that chapter closed in 2023. Since then, every Subaru SUV has transitioned fully to automatic transmissions. That shift reflects broader industry trends, where automatics dominate global sales due to efficiency, ease of use, and emissions compliance.

If Subaru were to reintroduce a manual SUV, it would signal a notable strategic move rather than a nostalgic experiment. It would also raise questions about whether other practical models could eventually regain three pedal options. However, expanding manuals beyond enthusiast cars like the WRX and BRZ would require clear evidence that everyday buyers are willing to embrace them again.

For now, Subaru seems to be listening. Whether that listening turns into action will depend on how many drivers truly crave the involvement of shifting gears themselves.