8 Car Brands with CVT Transmission (+Models List)
Continuously variable-speed transmission (CVT) improves fuel economy compared to traditional automatic, and these car manufacturers still use it to great effect in their smaller passenger vehicles.
This post includes each make’s models that utilize the CVT automatic gearbox.
Car Brands with CVT Transmission
#1 Toyota
Toyota makes some of the most reliable models and is renowned for excellent product quality and efficient people mover with low ownership costs.
The Japanese marque is a leader in the gas-electric technology space, and its use of the CVT gearbox extends to the hybrid models to further improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emission.
- Toyota Corolla – compact sedan and hatchback.
- Toyota Corolla Hybrid – compact sedan.
- Toyota Prius – hybrid hatchback.
- Toyota Prius Prime – plug-in-hybrid hatchback.
- Toyota Mirai – fuel-cell electric sedan.
- Toyota C-HR – subcompact SUV.
- Toyota Corolla Cross – compact SUV.
- Toyota RAV4 Hybrid – compact SUV.
- Toyota RAV4 Prime – compact SUV.
- Toyota Highlander Hybrid – midsize SUV.
- Toyota Venza – midsize SUV.
- Toyota Sienna – minivan.
The relevant model years with the continuously variable transmission are as extensive as the Toyota vehicles with CVT.
#2 Honda
Honda, another giant in the automotive industry, has a front-running model in almost every body style.
Like its arch-rival, Toyota, Honda has long adopted the CVT transmission in their passenger vehicles, including some of the most recognizable nameplates in the industry, like the Civic, Accord, and CR-V.
- Honda Civic – small sedan and hatchback.
- Honda Insight – small hybrid sedan.
- Honda Clarity – small plug-in-hybrid sedan.
- Honda Accord – midsize sedan.
- Honda Accord Hybrid – midsize sedan.
- Honda HR-V – extra-small SUV.
- Honda CR-V – small SUV.
- Honda CR-V Hybrid – small SUV.
#3 Nissan
Nissan has never quite reached the heights that its more-famous Japanese rivals were able to scale in sales and reliability reputation.
Still, this manufacturer makes fuel-efficient and good-quality CVT vehicles, often at a slightly lower price than the equivalent offering from Honda and Toyota.
- Nissan Kicks – subcompact hatchback.
- Nissan Versa – subcompact sedan.
- Nissan Sentra – compact sedan.
- Nissan Altima – midsize sedan.
- Nissan Maxima – midsize sedan.
- Nissan Rogue Sport – subcompact SUV.
- Nissan Rogue – compact SUV.
- Nissan Murano – midsize SUV.
#4 Subaru
Subaru is known for producing affordable fast cars – like the BRZ and WRX – and SUVs with above-average ground clearance and off-road capability.
Still, those features cannot compare to Subaru’s all-wheel-drive (AWD) offering, standard across all but one model, the BRZ coupe.
- Subaru Impreza – small sedan and hatchback.
- Subaru WRX – small sedan.
- Subaru Legacy – midsize sedan.
- Subaru Crosstrek – small SUV.
- Subaru Crosstrek Plug-In-Hybrid – small SUV.
- Subaru Forester – small SUV.
- Subaru Ascent – midsize SUV.
- Subaru Outback – midsize SUV.
The Subaru CVT vehicles post contains more details on the relevant model years and trim levels.
#5 Hyundai
Hyundai has been rising through the design and reliability ranks among global automakers with value-for-money, aesthetically-pleasing models.
Although Hyundai CVT cars aren’t as many as its main Japanese competitors, the continuously variable transmission technology is available in the popular small and extra-small vehicles.
- Hyundai Accent – subcompact sedan.
- Hyundai Elantra – compact sedan.
- Hyundai Venue – subcompact SUV.
- Hyundai Kona – subcompact SUV.
If you want to know which model years have the continuously variable transmission, head to the Hyundai CVT cars post.
#6 Kia
Mimicking its corporate cousin, Hyundai, Kia offers tonnes of value and an industry-best warranty.
- Kia Rio – extra-small sedan.
- Kia Forte – small sedan.
- Kia Soul – extra-small SUV.
- Kia Seltos – small SUV.
The Kia CVT models post has more details.
#7 Chevrolet
This American make has an extensive lineup across various body styles, best known for sports cars like the Camaro and Corvette, long-time favorites among speed enthusiasts.
- Chevy Spark – subcompact hatchback.
- Chevy Malibu – midsize sedan.
- Chevy Trailblazer – subcompact SUV.
#8 Buick
Despite being one of America’s oldest automotive brands, Buick does not have an extensive lineup, and fewer still with CVT.
- Buick Encore GX – extra-small SUV.
While this American marque had a rich history of innovation aimed at upper-class professionals, Buick vehicles today target mainstream buyers, establishing itself as more of a middle-class car manufacturer.
Automakers Without CVT
- Mazda.
- Ford.
- Jeep.
References:
The Top Car Manufacturers Known for Their Exceptional CVT Transmissions
Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering smooth and efficient driving experiences. While many automakers offer CVT options, some manufacturers have truly mastered the technology, consistently delivering exceptional performance and reliability. Here are some of the top car manufacturers known for their outstanding CVT transmissions⁚
- 1. Honda
- 2. Nissan
- 3; Toyota
- 4. Subaru
- 5. Hyundai and Kia
- Key Advantages of CVT Transmissions
1. Honda
Honda has been a pioneer in CVT technology for decades. Their Honda CVT, often referred to as the “Earth Dreams” transmission, is renowned for its smooth operation, fuel efficiency, and durability. Models like the Honda CR-V, Civic, and Fit are known for their exceptional CVT experiences, providing a seamless and responsive driving experience.
2. Nissan
Nissan has also made significant strides in CVT technology with their Xtronic CVT. This transmission is known for its quick response, smooth acceleration, and efficient fuel consumption. Nissan models like the Altima, Rogue, and Sentra offer excellent CVT performance, enhancing both driving enjoyment and fuel economy.
3; Toyota
Toyota has long been recognized for its reliable and fuel-efficient vehicles, and their CVT transmissions are no exception. Toyota’s CVT technology, often referred to as the “Direct Shift CVT,” is known for its smooth and responsive operation, particularly in models like the Camry, Corolla, and RAV4. Their CVTs provide a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making them a popular choice among drivers.
4. Subaru
Subaru, known for its all-wheel-drive expertise, has also embraced CVT technology. Their Lineartronic CVT is designed to provide smooth and responsive acceleration, especially in challenging driving conditions; Subaru models like the Impreza, Crosstrek, and Outback offer a unique combination of all-wheel-drive capabilities and efficient CVT performance.
5. Hyundai and Kia
Hyundai and Kia have made remarkable progress in CVT technology in recent years. Their “Intelligent Variable Transmission” (IVT) offers a smooth and efficient driving experience, with features like virtual gears that enhance the driving feel. Models like the Hyundai Elantra, Kona, and Kia Forte offer exceptional CVT performance, providing a balance of smoothness, efficiency, and responsiveness.
Key Advantages of CVT Transmissions
CVT transmissions offer numerous advantages over traditional automatic transmissions, including⁚
- Smooth and seamless acceleration⁚ CVTs provide a linear power delivery, eliminating the “jerky” shifts associated with conventional automatics.
- Improved fuel efficiency⁚ CVTs allow the engine to operate at optimal RPMs, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
- Quiet operation⁚ CVTs generally operate more quietly than traditional automatics, contributing to a more refined driving experience.
- Reduced wear and tear⁚ CVTs have fewer moving parts than traditional automatics, leading to increased durability and reduced maintenance needs.
While CVTs have become increasingly popular, it’s important to note that some drivers may find the “rubber band” effect, a feeling of acceleration that is not as immediate as with a traditional automatic, to be a drawback. However, advancements in CVT technology have significantly mitigated this effect, making them a more appealing option for a wider range of drivers.
In conclusion, these top car manufacturers have established themselves as leaders in CVT technology, consistently delivering exceptional performance, fuel efficiency, and reliability. Whether you’re seeking a smooth and efficient driving experience or prioritize fuel economy, these manufacturers offer a wide range of models equipped with exceptional CVT transmissions.
https://rideplusdrive.com/cvt-car-brands/https://nodsauto.com/the-top-car-manufacturers-known-for-their-exceptional-cvt-transmissions/
