CVT Cars Worth Considering
When it comes to smooth acceleration, better fuel efficiency, and fewer moving parts under the hood, Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) are the way to go. While not everyone’s a fan of how they feel compared to traditional automatics, CVTs have come a long way. Here are 20 great cars that use this technology and why you should consider getting one.
1. Honda Accord
The Honda Accord’s 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder comes with a CVT that delivers smooth power and boosts fuel efficiency, averaging 29 mpg in the city and 37 on the highway. It’s known for its solid reliability and comfortable, refined ride. Honda has also tuned the CVT to mimic regular gear shifts, making the drive feel more natural.
2. Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla uses a Dynamic-Shift CVT, which includes a fixed first gear for improved takeoff performance. This combination reduces the rubber band effect typically associated with CVTs. The Corolla also achieves impressive fuel economy—up to 40 mpg on the highway.
3. Subaru Outback
All Subaru Outback trims have a Lineartronic CVT, paired with symmetrical all-wheel drive. This transmission helps it achieve solid fuel economy numbers—up to 32 mpg on the highway—while offering versatility for off-road and snow conditions. It also helps reduce emissions without sacrificing performance.
4. Nissan Altima
An Xtronic CVT in the Nissan Altima enhances fuel economy and minimizes shift shock. It pairs with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and contributes to its EPA-estimated 39 mpg highway rating. Nissan’s CVT has improved over the years, offering better responsiveness and durability.
5. Toyota RAV4
This vehicle utilizes an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT) to seamlessly manage the gasoline engine and electric motor. The setup allows for efficient power delivery and a combined fuel economy of 40 mpg. It also contributes to a quiet and smooth ride, especially at low speeds.
6. Subaru Crosstrek
With 8.7 inches of ground clearance and a tough, adventure-ready design, the Crosstrek is built for outdoor enthusiasts. It features a Lineartronic CVT paired with standard all-wheel drive, delivering a solid mix of fuel efficiency—up to 34 mpg on the highway—and light off-road performance.
7. Honda Civic
Most non-hybrid trims of the Honda Civic, including sedan and hatchback variants, feature a CVT optimized for fuel efficiency. The CVT operates quietly and provides smooth power delivery. Honda's version is among the most responsive and durable in its class.
8. Mitsubishi Outlander
A CVT installation in the Outlander helps strike a balance between performance and economy. The CVT complements its light steering and calm ride characteristics. It offers decent fuel efficiency for a mid-size SUV, achieving around 31 mpg on the highway. Mitsubishi includes drive mode selectors and paddle shifters for added control.
9. Nissan Rogue
The Rogue’s Xtronic CVT delivers smooth power and helps achieve up to 37 mpg on the highway in front-wheel-drive models. Nissan has refined the CVT’s tuning to feel more natural and less rubbery. It also features D-Step Logic, which simulates gear shifts during strong acceleration.
10. Lexus UX 300h
This compact luxury crossover is perfect for urban drivers wanting style and efficiency. The Lexus UX 300h hybrid includes an eCVT for ultra-smooth operation and a superb fuel economy of up to 43 mpg combined. It seamlessly integrates the gas engine and electric motor with no noticeable shifts.
11. Toyota Camry Hybrid
The Camry Hybrid’s eCVT is designed to deliver power without fuss. It combines a 2.5L four-cylinder engine and an electric motor to produce smooth, linear acceleration. Unlike traditional CVTs, the eCVT handles power distribution electronically, which helps reduce engine drones and improve responsiveness.
12. Honda Insight (Pre-Owned)
The eCVT in this vehicle works with the hybrid system, keeping the car in electric mode at low speeds and smoothly transitioning to gas when needed. Though no longer available in 2025, the vehicle doesn’t have gears in the traditional sense, so there’s no shift shock or hesitation—it simply delivers power as needed.
Irmantas Baltrusaitis on Wikimedia
13. Subaru Legacy
For those who need all-weather traction without moving into a crossover, the Legacy and its well-tuned CVT are worth considering. Subaru has improved the software mapping over the years, and the simulated gear shifts help avoid the rubber-band effect during acceleration.
14. Toyota Prius
If maximum efficiency is the goal, the Prius stands out, thanks largely to its advanced eCVT. This system smartly uses electric power in stop-and-go traffic and keeps the engine running efficiently when needed. Drivers can count on getting over 50 mpg in all driving conditions.
15. Nissan Kicks
Nissan has made notable strides in refining the Kicks’ CVT, focusing on quietness, responsiveness, and simulated gear changes. The updated transmission avoids the stretched-out, droning feel that plagued earlier CVT-equipped models. The fuel economy is respectable, hitting up to 36 mpg on the highway.
16. Kia K4
An Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) is Kia’s take on the CVT for the K4. Focusing on natural acceleration, it uses a chain-type belt rather than a traditional push belt. The transmission simulates real gear changes, especially under load, so the driving experience feels closer to a conventional automatic.
17. Toyota C-HR (Pre-Owned)
While not built for outright speed, the CVT delivers responsive throttle behavior and smooth acceleration in traffic. Toyota added simulated shift points to reduce the “rubber-band” sensation common in older CVTs. Although discontinued, the C-HR strikes a balance between efficiency and style, offering up to 29 mpg combined.
18. Lexus ES 300h
In the ES 300h, the eCVT plays a central role in delivering a serene drive. It features a 2.5L four-cylinder engine and a hybrid motor system to maximize performance and fuel efficiency. Unlike traditional CVTs, the eCVT uses an electronic power split device, eliminating belts and pulleys.
19. Mitsubishi Mirage (Pre-Owned)
Though discontinued, the Mirage featured a straightforward CVT designed with fuel efficiency in mind. While it wasn’t built for speed, the transmission kept revs low, providing steady torque for city driving. With fewer moving parts, the CVT also helped minimize wear and tear over time.
20. Honda HR-V
Paired with a 2.0L engine, this vehicle's CVT delivers a refined and quiet ride, especially at low speeds. Fuel economy is competitive for its class, using up to 28 mpg combined, and the CVT keeps the engine operating efficiently without over-revving.
