auto -V- manual subarus

[Quentin Moran]

Has anybody driven both the automatic (AT) and manual (MT) versions of
Forester or *Liberty/Legacy/Outback in off road conditions. I am
interested to know how much difference the more responsive traction
control in the AT really makes. I have a Forester manual.

For those that didn't know the AT has a computer controlled traction
system which is more proactive. I think they said it detects wheelspin
before it happens whereas the MT has a viscious coupling LSD which
only kicks in after a wheel spins.

Would you rather have the low range in the manual or the quicker
acting traction control?

*Legacy is called Liberty in Australia

Regards
Quentin

 

[Hallraker]

Has anybody driven both the automatic (AT) and manual (MT) versions of
Forester or *Liberty/Legacy/Outback in off road conditions. I am
interested to know how much difference the more responsive traction
control in the AT really makes. I have a Forester manual.

For those that didn't know the AT has a computer controlled traction
system which is more proactive. I think they said it detects wheelspin
before it happens whereas the MT has a viscious coupling LSD which
only kicks in after a wheel spins.

Would you rather have the low range in the manual or the quicker
acting traction control?

*Legacy is called Liberty in Australia

Unforunately, here in North America we can't get the low range gearing. I
guess they figure we don't need it. hah! Anyway, if it were available and
I was in the market for a new Subie, I'd definitely go for the low-range
manual over the more "intelligent" automatic. Not only that, but I've heard
Subies have nice manual transmissions, at least as far as shifting goes.
Never driven one though, only autos.

-Matt

 

[Henry Paul]

I have a 5-speed and I just love it to death! I have owned a lot of manuals
and my Subie is my favorite of the bunch.

 

[Surendar Jeyadev]

Unforunately, here in North America we can't get the low range gearing. I

Really? I got one!

 

[Hallraker]

I

Really? I got one!

That's news to me. Although I haven't looked at any of the newer Subies
lately, I've never seen the low range gearing available here.

-Matt