The 2001 Honda Civic offered two main transmissions: a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. The high-performance Civic Si used a five-speed manual exclusively, and there was no CVT option in the U.S. market that year.
Released as part of the seventh generation, the 2001 Civic lineup included trims such as DX, LX, and EX, with the Si representing the sport-oriented variant. Transmission availability varied by trim, with manual gearsets widely used and automatics offered as an alternative on most models.
Transmission options in the 2001 Civic
The following outlines the two primary configurations you would find on the 2001 Civic depending on trim and market.
- Five-speed manual transmission (5MT)
- Four-speed automatic transmission (4AT)
In practice, the manual transmission was favored by driving enthusiasts for its direct control and engagement, while the automatic provided convenient, hassle-free operation for daily driving.
Civic Si: a manual-only performance variant
The Civic Si, the sport-oriented model in the lineup, came with a five-speed manual transmission exclusively. There was no automatic transmission option for the Si in the U.S. market for that year.
This manual-only setup underscored Honda’s intent to deliver a more involved driving experience in the Si without sacrificing reliability.
Practical notes for owners and buyers
To determine which transmission your 2001 Civic has, check the trim level and the VIN, as some markets or dealer configurations might vary. If you’re shopping used, a quick test-drive with the door closed and the engine around idle can help confirm whether the car has a manual or automatic transmission.
Summary
For 2001 Hondas Civic, buyers could choose between a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic, with the sport-focused Si model using manual only. There was no CVT option in the U.S. market that year. The choice largely came down to driver preference and intended use: manual for engagement and sportier feel, automatic for convenience.
Which civics don't have CVT transmission?
Honda: The Civic Type R, Honda Fit (with the manual option), Honda Passport, Pilot, Ridgeline and the Odyssey are not equipped with CVTs. Hyundai: The Sonata, Ioniq, Veloster, Palisade, Santa Fe and Tucson are not equipped with CVTs. Infiniti: The QX30, QX60, Q50, Q60 and QX80 are not equipped with CVTs.
What kind of transmission does a 2001 Honda Civic have?
Drivetrain
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
|---|---|
| Drive type | Front wheel drive |
What are common problems with a 2001 Honda Civic?
Top 2001 Honda Civic Problems
- Airbag Light Due to Failed Occupant Position Sensor.
- Bad Engine Mounts May Cause Vibration, Roughness, and Rattle.
- Power Window Switch May Fail.
- Hood Release Cable May Break at Handle.
- Wipers Won't Park Due to Windshield Wiper Motor Failure.
- Possible Shift Control Solenoid Fault.
How much is a 2001 Honda Civic worth today?
Find out what your 2001 Honda Civic is worth. 2001 Honda Civic recent instant offers range from $700-$1,400.


