[SubasaurusRex]

Hi guys,

I read in Car and Driver that the 2018 6MTs now have new synchronizers and smoother clutches. Has anyone driven or professionally reviewed those specific changes? Do they feel all that much smoother than the 2015 to 2017 models?

 

[BigTash]

I would also like to know this. Really interested in picking up a MY18 WRX or WRX/STi next Spring.

 

[al-the-killer]

They only let me drive from one parking spot to another. Felt like I was driving a cloud compared to my 2011.

Literally only 1 data point though haha sorry.

 

[ChristopherWRX]

Today, just had my throw-out bearing, clutch, flywheel, etc. replaced on my '16. (Subaru said in addition to my TOB, my clutch had hot spots, uneven wearing, and wasn't mating correctly with the flywheel). Ironically, I was curious if something was different with the replacement parts when I saw this post. The clutch pedal is very light, grabs much earlier, and just feels more solid. Coincidence?

 

[why2kmax]

Today, just had my throw-out bearing, clutch, flywheel, etc. replaced on my '16. (Subaru said in addition to my TOB, my clutch had hot spots, uneven wearing, and wasn't mating correctly with the flywheel). Ironically, I was curious if something was different with the replacement parts when I saw this post. The clutch pedal is very light, grabs much earlier, and just feels more solid. Coincidence?

What you are feeling is likely just the difference between your bad clutch and what a good one is supposed to feel like. Was it replaced under warranty? How many miles?

 

[Blk17WRX]

My 17' is probably the easiest clutch I've ever driven. I've had countless manual transmissions from Evo's to 5.0L Mustangs.

 

[ChristopherWRX]

... Was it replaced under warranty? How many miles?

Yeah, it was replaced under warranty. I have roughly 14.5K miles on the odometer.

 

[ChristopherWRX]

I will say it is very nice not to hear that shuddering squeal every morning...or after sitting for extended periods...or after every car wash...or rainstorm.

Hope it lasts.

 

[BigTash]

I think OP's question got skipped entirely lol

 

[al-the-killer]

I think OP's question got skipped entirely lol

True. One of the sales guys I talked to kept talking about how much better it was in the 2018s but I really have no idea if he knew what he was talking about. And I haven't driven a '15-'17. So now I've made two comments in here that are less than helpful ha.

 

[why2kmax]

I dont think its intentional. I think none of us have the info, nor has it been given out anywhere. I wouldnt depend on salesman to know anything about the car beyond what color it is

 

[BaconRaygun]

Today, just had my throw-out bearing, clutch, flywheel, etc. replaced on my '16. (Subaru said in addition to my TOB, my clutch had hot spots, uneven wearing, and wasn't mating correctly with the flywheel). Ironically, I was curious if something was different with the replacement parts when I saw this post. The clutch pedal is very light, grabs much earlier, and just feels more solid. Coincidence?

Fresh clutch always feels super light. It will feel 'normal' in a week or so. Grab point is adjustable, so keep that in mind if you like it where it is now, as it will change a bit too once the clutch is worn in a bit.

 

[bwilson7990]

I've driven 2 different 2018 base WRXs on test drives at dealers in pursuit of the best price on a factory order. Both times I was the first person to drive the car more than around the lot. First car I took on 95% backroads, the 2nd I took on main roads and shortly on the highway. Also drive a 2017 prior to the two 18s. Clutch takeup on the 18s makes the 15-17 feel like a button. The engagement starts sooner and lasts a little longer, allowing you to be a lot more smooth and have more room for error. Feels just a snappy tho if you want to pull off quickly. I was obviously very gentle on the 18s as they had <10 miles when I first got in, but I can tell you 110% the clutch feels 1000 times better.

As for the synchros, I honestly didn't notice much of a difference between them but I can tell you this. I've only driven the 2017 with STS and the 18 with standard. The 18 literally felt identical, if not a tad bit smoother. A buddy of mine used to have an 08 R32 and the 18s fall into gear just like that VW did. So buttery smooth. Couldn't wipe the smile off my face.

Cant wait for my 18 WRX Limited in LBP to arrive :wiggles:

 

[bwilson7990]

I dont think its intentional. I think none of us have the info, nor has it been given out anywhere. I wouldnt depend on salesman to know anything about the car beyond what color it is

The base models are actively rolling into the dealers now; two different dealers in my area (Northern MD/Southern PA) had 2 each on their lots. Go out and test drive one!

 

[Stanley Yahtzee]

im glad to see so many people loving the wrx clutch so much. i haven't driven a manual in going on 2 years and its nice to know it will be easy to get back in the saddle.

 

[ChristopherWRX]

Fresh clutch always feels super light. It will feel 'normal' in a week or so. Grab point is adjustable, so keep that in mind if you like it where it is now, as it will change a bit too once the clutch is worn in a bit.

Thanks for the heads-up.

 

[SubasaurusRex]

I've driven 2 different 2018 base WRXs on test drives at dealers in pursuit of the best price on a factory order. Both times I was the first person to drive the car more than around the lot. First car I took on 95% backroads, the 2nd I took on main roads and shortly on the highway. Also drive a 2017 prior to the two 18s. Clutch takeup on the 18s makes the 15-17 feel like a button. The engagement starts sooner and lasts a little longer, allowing you to be a lot more smooth and have more room for error. Feels just a snappy tho if you want to pull off quickly. I was obviously very gentle on the 18s as they had <10 miles when I first got in, but I can tell you 110% the clutch feels 1000 times better.

As for the synchros, I honestly didn't notice much of a difference between them but I can tell you this. I've only driven the 2017 with STS and the 18 with standard. The 18 literally felt identical, if not a tad bit smoother. A buddy of mine used to have an 08 R32 and the 18s fall into gear just like that VW did. So buttery smooth. Couldn't wipe the smile off my face.

Cant wait for my 18 WRX Limited in LBP to arrive :wiggles:

so it wasn't any big improvement in terms of synchros like the gears didn't snap in place with less friction and it was more just smoother clutch operation?