CVT, or Continuously Variable Transmission, is now widely used across many mainstream car brands, particularly in models prioritizing fuel efficiency. If you're looking for a new car with a CVT, you'll most likely find them in popular sedans, hatchbacks, and crossover SUVs from Japanese manufacturers like Honda, Toyota, Nissan, and Subaru. American brands such as Ford and Chevrolet also use them in certain models, and they are increasingly common in some Hyundai and Kia vehicles.
Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with a fixed number of gears, a CVT uses a pulley and belt system to provide an infinite number of gear ratios. This allows the engine to run at its most efficient speed (RPM) for a given driving situation, which is the key to their excellent fuel economy. However, some drivers dislike the driving sensation, often described as a "rubber band" effect, where the engine revs high while the car accelerates smoothly without distinct gear shifts.
| Brand | Example Models with CVT (U.S. Market) |
|---|
| Honda | Civic, Accord, CR-V, HR-V |
| Toyota | Corolla, Camry, RAV4, Highlander |
| Nissan | Sentra, Altima, Rogue, Murano |
| Subaru | Impreza, Legacy, Outback, Forester (with Lineartronic CVT) |
| Mitsubishi | Outlander, Mirage |
| Ford | Escape (some model years) |
| Chevrolet | Malibu (some model years), Trailblazer |
| Hyundai | Elantra (some trims), Venue |
| Kia | Forte, Seltos |
The primary trade-off is between efficiency and driving engagement. For a daily commuter where low running costs are the priority, a modern CVT is an excellent choice. If you value sporty, connected shifting feel, you may want to seek out a traditional automatic, a dual-clutch transmission, or a manual.
