Most current Honda models use some form of CVT, especially the Civic, CR-V, HR-V, and Insight, including their hybrid variants. Performance-focused models like the Civic Si and Type R rely on manual transmissions.
Scope and definitions
CVT stands for continuously variable transmission, a belt-and-pulley design that provides seamless, stepless gearing rather than fixed gears. Honda often uses a variation called an e-CVT for its hybrid models, where two electric motors participate in the transmission system. In common automotive language, both CVT and e-CVT are described as CVTs, even though the underlying mechanism differs slightly between conventional and hybrid systems.
Current Honda models with CVT transmissions
The following list covers the mainline Honda models that typically use a CVT or an e-CVT in current production. Availability can vary by trim and market.
- Civic (gas variants use a CVT on most trims; the Civic Si and Type R use manual transmissions)
- Civic Hybrid (uses an e-CVT)
- CR-V (gas model uses a CVT; CR-V Hybrid uses an e-CVT)
- HR-V (gas model uses a CVT)
- Insight (hybrid uses an e-CVT)
- Accord Hybrid (uses an e-CVT)
- Fit/Jazz (CVT is standard in many markets outside North America; the US-era Fit used CVT on most trims before discontinuation)
Note that some regions offer different transmission configurations, and model-year updates can shift which trims use CVTs versus traditional automatics. Always confirm the exact transmission on a given trim with a dealer.
Model-by-model notes
Civic
The Civic lineup typically pairs the 1.5-liter turbo with a CVT on most gas trims, while the high-performance Civic Si and Type R use manual transmissions. The Civic Hybrid employs an e-CVT system for its two-motor hybrid setup.
CR-V
The CR-V’s gas version uses a CVT with the 1.5-liter turbo engine. The CR-V Hybrid swaps in Honda’s two-motor e-CVT hybrid system for improved efficiency.
HR-V
The HR-V's standard gasoline model uses a CVT, aligning with Honda’s efficiency-focused approach in the compact SUV segment.
Insight
The Insight is Honda’s dedicated hybrid in the lineup and uses an e-CVT transmission to optimize fuel economy and smooth acceleration without traditional gear shifts.
Accord Hybrid
The Accord Hybrid employs an e-CVT, combining a gasoline engine with electric motors to deliver a balance of power and efficiency in Honda’s flagship sedan.
Fit / Jazz
In markets where the Fit (also known as Jazz) is sold, a CVT is typically standard to maximize interior space efficiency and fuel economy. In the United States, the Fit was discontinued after the 2020 model year, but the Jazz remains in other regions with CVT transmissions.
Regional notes
Transmission choices can vary by market and by model-year updates. Some trims may use traditional automatics instead of CVTs, and hybrid variants almost always use an e-CVT. If CVT capability is a priority, check the exact drivetrain in your region and for your chosen trim.
Summary
Across Honda’s current mainstream lineup, CVTs and e-CVTs are common across the Civic, CR-V, HR-V, Insight, and Accord Hybrid, with the Civic Hybrid and Accord Hybrid representing hybrid CVT implementations. The Civic Si, Type R, and some other performance models do not use CVTs, opting for manuals or other transmissions. For a precise configuration, always verify with the dealer for your specific trim and region.