Do Honda Civics have CVT transmissions?
Most Honda Civics sold today use a CVT automatic, while the sportier Civic Si and Civic Type R rely on traditional manual transmissions. This reflects Honda's emphasis on fuel efficiency for the mainstream lineup, with manuals reserved for performance-focused variants.
Current transmission options in the latest Civics
The following overview focuses on the present-generation Civics (model years around 2022–2025).
- CVT automatic: Standard on most trims (LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring) with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. The CVT prioritizes smooth operation and fuel efficiency, with simulated gears for a more engaging feel in some drive modes.
- 6-speed manual: Civic Si is offered exclusively with a 6-speed manual; there is no automatic option for the Si in the current generation. Civic Type R also uses a 6-speed manual and remains one of the few high-performance Civics with a traditional stick shift.
In short, if you want an automatic CVT Civic, you can choose most trims; if you want a manual, your options are the Si or Type R variants.
Historical context and how CVT affects driving
Historically, Honda Civics have offered a mix of manual and automatic transmissions. Over recent generations, CVTs have become the default automatic option for the mainstream lineup due to efficiency and refinement gains, while the Si and Type R have consistently preserved a manual transmission to deliver a traditional sport-driving experience.
Summary
Bottom line: Do Honda Civics have CVT transmissions? Yes, for the vast majority of current trims. Manual transmissions are reserved for the high-performance Civic Si and Civic Type R. Always verify the exact model year and trim when shopping, as transmission availability can vary by region and year.
What year did Honda put CVT transmission in Civic?
1996
Honda's journey with CVT technology began with the 1996 Civic HX and has evolved into an integral part of their lineup, including the beloved Honda Pilot. This evolution has seen the CVT adapt to offer higher engine speeds during spirited driving, ensuring that performance is never compromised for efficiency.
Which Honda Civics do not have CVT?
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.
Is the Honda Civic using CVT?
You will frequently find a CVT transmission in Honda vehicles, including the popular Civic and Accord models. Honda Civic CVT transmission problems and issues with Accords are not rare, although they are less common as CVT technology has improved.
Which Honda model has CVT transmission?
Throughout the Honda lineup, nearly every model can be equipped with either a traditional automatic transmission or a CVT. A CVT, or continuously variable transmission, functions in a similar fashion as a conventional automatic.
