In short, no—Acura does not offer a traditional belt-driven CVT in its current lineup. The brand relies on conventional automatics for its gasoline models and uses multi-motor or dual-clutch systems for its hybrid and high-performance variants.
Gasoline-powered models rely on conventional automatics
Most Acura models with internal combustion engines use fixed-gear automatic transmissions rather than continuously variable transmissions. This approach prioritizes predictable shifting feel and performance characteristics aligned with Acura’s sporty image.
Before listing the typical transmission approaches by model, note that availability can vary by year and trim. The following are common configurations found in recent Acura gasoline-powered vehicles.
- TLX: generally equipped with a traditional 9-speed automatic (9AT).
- RDX: typically paired with a multi‑speed automatic, commonly a 10‑speed automatic.
- MDX: uses a conventional automatic transmission, with variations that have included 9‑ or 10‑speed automatics depending on the generation and model year.
- NSX: employs a 9‑speed dual‑clutch automatic (DCT) in its hybridized powertrain, not a belt-driven CVT.
In summary, the gasoline-focused lineup emphasizes non-CVT automatics designed for a balance of refinement and performance.
Hybrid and high-performance models
Acura’s hybrid and performance-oriented vehicles use transmission architectures that diverge from a traditional CVT. Rather than a belt-driven CVT, these vehicles rely on multi‑motor hybrid systems or dual‑clutch designs to optimize power delivery and efficiency.
- MDX Sport Hybrid: uses a hybrid powertrain with electric motors and a transmission arrangement that does not rely on a conventional CVT.
- NSX: uses a 9‑speed dual‑clutch automatic paired with electric motors to deliver high performance, rather than a traditional CVT.
While some Honda/Acura hybrids historically employ e‑CVT-like concepts in their hybrid systems, these are not belt-driven CVTs in the traditional sense and are part of a broader multi‑speed hybrid architecture rather than a standard CVT.
Clarifying e‑CVT-like systems in hybrids
Some hybrid powertrains in the Honda/Acura family use transmission concepts that optimize seamless power delivery through multiple motors and gear sets rather than a simple belt CVT. These designs aim to maximize efficiency and torque delivery without using a conventional continuously variable belt‑type transmission. For consumers, this means Acura’s hybrids behave differently from typical belt CVTs found in some other brands.
If you are shopping for a car with a traditional CVT, Acura’s lineup does not include one in its current gasoline or hybrid offerings. Instead, you’ll encounter conventional automatics and specialized hybrid transmissions designed for performance and efficiency.
Summary
Acura does not currently offer a traditional CVT transmission in its lineup. Gasoline models predominantly use fixed-gear automatics (9‑ or 10‑speed, depending on the model and year), while hybrids use multi‑motor or dual‑clutch configurations rather than belt-driven CVTs. For shoppers seeking a CVT, Acura’s vehicles are not equipped with that type of transmission, though hybrid systems may incorporate e‑CVT‑like characteristics as part of a more complex multi‑gear hybrid architecture.