Do Fords have CVT transmissions?
Not all Fords use CVTs. In Ford’s lineup, traditional automatic transmissions and dual-clutch units are common, while CVT-like functionality appears primarily in the hybrid family as an electronic CVT (eCVT). Electric vehicles do not rely on a multi-gear transmission in the same way, so they don’t use CVTs in the conventional sense.
Understanding CVT versus eCVT in Ford vehicles
CVT stands for Continuously Variable Transmission, a design that varies the effective gear ratio continuously rather than in fixed steps. Ford distinguishes its hybrid transmissions as eCVTs—electronic CVTs—that use the gasoline engine and an electric motor to deliver smooth, seamless acceleration without traditional gear changes. This is different from the conventional automatic or dual-clutch transmissions Ford employs in most non-hybrid models.
Where you’ll find CVT-like transmissions in Ford’s lineup
Below are the areas where Ford uses CVT-style or eCVT systems, which are most common in hybrids and some plug-in hybrids. These are not the same as the multi-gear automatics found in most gasoline-only models.
- Ford Escape Hybrid
- Ford Maverick Hybrid
In these cases, the eCVT provides a smooth power delivery characteristic similar to a traditional CVT, but it is designed to work in concert with the hybrid powertrain and electric motor assistance. Non-hybrid Ford models typically rely on conventional automatics or, in some markets, dual-clutch transmissions.
What about electric vehicles and non-hybrid Fords?
Electric vehicles such as the Mustang Mach-E use a single-speed or very simplified gear arrangement rather than a multi-ratio automatic. This means they do not use a CVT in the conventional sense. For gasoline-powered Fords, the transmission choice varies by model and market, with most non-hybrid models offering traditional automatic transmissions or, in some cases, dual-clutch arrangements.
Market differences and shopping considerations
Transmission offerings can vary by region. In North America, Ford’s hybrids are the primary example of CVT-like behavior (eCVT), while many passenger and truck models use conventional automatics or DCTs in certain markets. If you’re shopping a specific model or year, check the official specs or the owner’s manual to confirm whether the powertrain uses an eCVT or a traditional transmission.
Summary
Ford does not rely on CVTs across its entire lineup. CVT-like behavior exists primarily in Ford’s hybrid and plug-in hybrid models via the eCVT, while most gasoline-powered Fords use conventional automatics or other transmission types. Electric Ford vehicles do not use CVTs. For buyers, the key is to verify the drivetrain specification for the exact model and year you’re considering.
