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20 Cars With CVT Transmission and the Surprising Benefits They Offer

Jimmy Adell June 19, 2025

A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is a unique type of automatic transmission that doesn’t use traditional gears. Instead, it relies on a system of pulleys and belts to provide an infinite range of gear ratios. This seamless power delivery makes CVTs increasingly popular in today’s vehicles, especially for drivers seeking a smooth and efficient ride. What sets these transmissions apart is their ability to optimize engine performance and fuel efficiency simultaneously. As automakers embrace this technology, more cars now feature CVTs—offering a new driving experience that stands out from conventional automatics.

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1. Honda Accord

The Honda Accord stands out for its advanced CVT, which contributes to excellent fuel efficiency and notably smooth acceleration. Unlike traditional automatics that shift between fixed gears, the Accord’s CVT keeps the engine in its optimal power range, delivering a seamless and responsive drive. This transmission is also praised for its reliability and low maintenance, making it a favorite among families and commuters alike. According to Car and Driver, the Accord’s CVT elevates the driving experience without sacrificing dependability.

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2. Toyota Corolla

The Toyota Corolla features a well-engineered CVT that’s renowned for its reliability and effortless city driving. By delivering power smoothly without the abrupt shifts of conventional automatics, it makes stop-and-go traffic less stressful. Drivers also benefit from impressive MPG ratings, which help keep fuel costs low over time. Edmunds highlights how the Corolla’s CVT consistently delivers a quiet, refined ride—making it an ideal choice for urban commuters who value comfort and efficiency. Learn more at Edmunds.

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3. Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback combines its signature all-wheel-drive system with a sophisticated CVT, creating a vehicle ready for diverse conditions. This pairing ensures responsive, adaptable performance whether you’re navigating city streets or rougher terrain. The CVT seamlessly adjusts to changes in driving environments, providing both efficiency and capability. MotorTrend notes that the Outback’s transmission delivers steady power and maintains traction during challenging drives, making it a smart choice for those who crave adventure without compromising comfort. Read more at MotorTrend.

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4. Nissan Altima

The Nissan Altima is equipped with Xtronic CVT technology, setting it apart for its exceptionally smooth and quiet ride. This advanced transmission enables seamless gear transitions, eliminating the jerks and pauses common in traditional automatics. One of the standout advantages is the Altima’s improved highway mileage, making long drives more efficient and cost-effective. According to U.S. News, this innovation enhances driving comfort while maintaining impressive fuel economy, reinforcing the Altima’s reputation for value.

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5. Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry is celebrated for its advanced CVT, which delivers a smooth-driving experience that’s both quiet and refined. This transmission helps the Camry achieve lower emissions—an appealing benefit for eco-conscious drivers. Kelley Blue Book emphasizes the Camry’s reputation for long-term reliability, with its CVT contributing to reduced maintenance and operating costs. Whether commuting or road-tripping, the Camry’s CVT ensures efficient power delivery while upholding the model’s legacy of durability. Learn more at Kelley Blue Book.

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6. Honda Civic

The Honda Civic utilizes a refined CVT that enhances its reputation for a sporty and responsive drive. With excellent fuel savings, the Civic is especially attractive to commuters and young drivers seeking affordability without sacrificing fun. Consumer Reports notes that the CVT in the Civic maintains brisk acceleration and smooth transitions, ensuring an engaging ride for city or highway travel. Its blend of style, efficiency, and practicality makes the Civic’s CVT a standout in its segment. Read more at Consumer Reports.

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7. Subaru Crosstrek

The Subaru Crosstrek is a versatile compact SUV, and its CVT is a key factor in its off-road capability. The transmission adapts smoothly to changing terrain, helping the Crosstrek maintain traction and control where other small SUVs might struggle. Meanwhile, the CVT delivers impressive efficiency and a quiet, comfortable ride for everyday city driving. According to Cars.com, the Crosstrek’s CVT makes it ideal for both adventurous weekends and practical commuting.

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8. Nissan Sentra

The Nissan Sentra appeals to budget-minded shoppers with its affordable pricing and a CVT designed for low maintenance. This transmission not only reduces long-term ownership costs but also helps the Sentra achieve competitive fuel economy in its class. Autoblog points out that the Sentra’s CVT delivers a smooth, no-fuss driving experience, making it an excellent choice for those prioritizing value and efficiency. Discover more at Autoblog.

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9. Mitsubishi Outlander

The Mitsubishi Outlander is praised for its spacious interior and family-friendly features, but its CVT is a standout element. This transmission delivers a smooth, fuel-efficient driving experience, which is especially valuable in a midsize SUV. Motor1 highlights how the Outlander’s CVT keeps engine revs low and power delivery consistent, resulting in less noise and better mileage on long journeys. For drivers seeking comfort, utility, and efficiency, the Outlander’s CVT offers a compelling package. Learn more at Motor1.

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10. Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V leverages its refined CVT to reinforce its reputation for reliability and family-friendly design. This SUV’s transmission delivers top-class gas mileage without compromising the smooth, versatile performance families expect. Edmunds notes that the CR-V’s CVT enables effortless acceleration and consistent efficiency, even with a full load of passengers or cargo. For those prioritizing low running costs and everyday practicality, the CR-V’s CVT makes it a dependable, efficient, and easy-to-drive choice. See more at Edmunds.

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11. Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid features a sophisticated CVT system that perfectly balances eco-friendly driving with versatile, all-weather performance. This hybrid CVT ensures seamless power delivery from both the gas engine and electric motor, resulting in impressive fuel economy and reduced emissions. According to U.S. News & World Report, the RAV4 Hybrid’s transmission makes it an ideal choice for drivers who want environmental responsibility without sacrificing capability or everyday practicality.

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12. Subaru Legacy

The Subaru Legacy is admired for its comfort and advanced safety technologies, making it a standout in the midsize sedan segment. Its CVT is central to the Legacy’s appeal, offering a quiet, refined ride that enhances daily commutes and long journeys alike. Car and Driver notes that the Legacy’s transmission delivers smooth acceleration and helps keep cabin noise to a minimum, supporting a tranquil driving experience. Combined with Subaru’s renowned safety features, this CVT-equipped sedan is both practical and pleasant. Learn more at Car and Driver.

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13. Nissan Rogue

The Nissan Rogue is known for its spacious cabin and impressive suite of tech features, making it a favorite for families and tech-savvy drivers alike. Its CVT plays a crucial role in maximizing fuel economy for both city and highway driving, helping owners save money over time. Kelley Blue Book highlights how the Rogue’s transmission ensures smooth, efficient power delivery, complementing its practicality and comfort. For those seeking versatility and value, the Rogue’s CVT-equipped platform is a clear standout. See Kelley Blue Book’s review.

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14. Honda HR-V

The Honda HR-V is celebrated for its agile handling and versatile cargo space, making it ideal for busy city dwellers and weekend adventurers. The HR-V’s CVT contributes significantly to its urban maneuverability, delivering quick, responsive acceleration and smooth transitions in stop-and-go traffic. MotorTrend notes that the transmission helps drivers take full advantage of tight parking spots and winding city streets, while the flexible interior ensures there’s always room for gear or groceries. Read more at MotorTrend.

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15. Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius is a pioneer in hybrid technology, and its CVT is central to its class-leading fuel economy and impressively low emissions. The Prius’s hybrid CVT seamlessly blends electric and gasoline power for maximum efficiency, making it an icon among eco-friendly vehicles. According to Green Car Reports, the Prius continues to set the standard for environmentally conscious driving, with its advanced CVT technology ensuring both a quiet ride and fewer trips to the gas station.

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16. Nissan Versa

The Nissan Versa is prized for its outstanding value and straightforward operation, making it a top pick for new and budget-conscious drivers. Its CVT helps simplify the driving experience, offering smooth, easy acceleration without the complexity of gear changes. U.S. News highlights how the Versa’s transmission improves accessibility and confidence, especially for those just starting out on the road. Affordable, intuitive, and efficient, the Versa’s CVT is a key reason it remains a go-to choice for many first-time car buyers. Read more at U.S. News.

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17. Mitsubishi Mirage

The Mitsubishi Mirage is designed with urban commuters in mind, pairing a lightweight build with an efficient CVT. This combination results in outstanding gas mileage, making the Mirage one of the most economical cars in its class. Edmunds notes that the Mirage’s CVT maintains steady, low engine revs during city driving, which helps stretch every gallon of fuel. For drivers seeking affordability and minimal stops at the pump, the Mirage’s CVT setup is a practical and appealing choice. See details at Edmunds.

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18. Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza distinguishes itself with standard all-wheel drive, making it a safe choice in all seasons. Its efficient CVT enhances both safety and fuel economy, especially in challenging weather conditions. Cars.com highlights how the Impreza’s CVT delivers smooth, controlled power to all four wheels, boosting confidence on wet or snowy roads. For drivers who need reliable grip and efficiency without sacrificing comfort, the Impreza’s CVT-equipped drivetrain is a smart and secure option. Learn more at Cars.com.

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19. Toyota C-HR

The Toyota C-HR turns heads with its funky design and playful character, but its CVT also makes a big impression. This transmission ensures a responsive, efficient drive, particularly suited to the demands of city life. Motor1 notes that the C-HR’s CVT delivers nimble handling and seamless acceleration, helping drivers weave through urban traffic with ease. For those who want standout style and practical efficiency, the C-HR’s CVT is the perfect match for its energetic persona. Read more at Motor1.

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20. Honda Insight

The Honda Insight hybrid showcases an advanced CVT that’s engineered for quiet operation and exceptional efficiency. This transmission seamlessly manages power from both its gas engine and electric motor, resulting in impressive MPG and a noticeably smooth ride. Green Car Reports highlights how the Insight’s CVT provides gradual, uninterrupted acceleration—making every trip more relaxing and economical. For drivers who value eco-friendly technology without sacrificing comfort or performance, the Insight’s CVT sets a high standard. Read the review at Green Car Reports.

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Conclusion

Create me a vibrant but — Image source: motor-junkie

CVT-equipped cars are rapidly reshaping the automotive landscape, offering exceptional fuel savings, smoother driving, and reduced emissions. Their unique technology provides a quiet, comfortable ride while making vehicles more accessible and practical for daily life. As more manufacturers embrace CVT systems, drivers benefit from lower maintenance, greater efficiency, and improved environmental responsibility. If you’re considering your next car, exploring these 20 standout models with CVT transmission could lead to a smarter, greener, and more enjoyable driving experience.

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20 Cars With CVT Transmission and the Surprising Benefits They Offer

1. Honda Accord

2. Toyota Corolla

3. Subaru Outback

4. Nissan Altima

5. Toyota Camry

6. Honda Civic

7. Subaru Crosstrek

8. Nissan Sentra

9. Mitsubishi Outlander

10. Honda CR-V

11. Toyota RAV4

12. Subaru Legacy

13. Nissan Rogue

14. Honda HR-V

15. Toyota Prius

16. Nissan Versa

17. Mitsubishi Mirage

18. Subaru Impreza

19. Toyota C-HR

20. Honda Insight

Conclusion

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