That's a shame. Hard to fix the non linear clutch behaviour but a Cobb Tuning "tune" maybe could lessen the rev hang tendency. Not necessarily totally remove it - but make it less aggressive in its operation. For me a somewhat taller first gear would actually be my preference, well particularly in city driving.
For sure on that. It really was a shame because it was a great little car. It was almost like Subaru put out some with a 5MT as an after thought. Another issue was the cramped pedal positions. I couldn't wear size 11 winter boots without hitting the clutch and brake pedals at the same time.
The whole reason I bought that 2014 Crosstrek 5spd was I wanted to turn in my leased 2012 Legacy 2.5i premium. I was 6mo early, over miles, had worn snow tires on it and probably needing a brake job. I had been watching this particular crosstrek and it had been sitting on the lot untouched. I asked them if I bought that crosstrek today, would they take my lease in free and clear. It didn't take much back/forth for them to go for it.