Does 2015 Lexus RX 350 have a CVT transmission?
No. The 2015 RX 350 uses a traditional eight-speed automatic transmission rather than a CVT.
In more detail, the gasoline-powered RX 350 pairs a 3.5-liter V6 with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, offering smooth shifts and comfortable highway cruising. The RX lineup also includes the RX 450h hybrid, which uses a hybrid-specific transmission system (an electric CVT, or eCVT) as part of its powertrain. This distinction is important for understanding driving feel and maintenance considerations across the model range.
Transmission setup in the 2015 RX 350
The gasoline-powered RX 350 is equipped with a conventional eight-speed automatic transmission designed to deliver smooth shifts and reliable performance across daily driving scenarios. It is available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, and trim levels may include sport or manual shift modes to enhance engagement when desired.
Driving experience and shift characteristics
Owners may notice a stepped gear feel typical of a traditional automatic, which can feel different from the seamless acceleration sometimes associated with CVTs. Lexus tuned the eight-speed unit for comfort and refined highway performance in the RX 350’s character as a luxury crossover.
RX 350 vs. RX hybrid: a key difference
The RX 450h hybrid uses a different drivetrain that integrates electric motors with the gasoline engine and employs an electronic CVT-like arrangement (often described as an eCVT). This system is designed to optimize efficiency and provide smooth electric assistance, contrasting with the RX 350’s conventional eight-speed automatic philosophy.
Implications for maintenance and ownership
Different transmission architectures come with distinct maintenance profiles and long-term wear patterns. The RX 350’s eight-speed automatic has a long-standing reputation for reliability in a non-hybrid configuration, while the RX 450h’s eCVT is tailored to hybrid operation and efficiency but behaves differently from a standard automatic.
Summary
In sum, the 2015 Lexus RX 350 does not use a CVT. It uses an eight-speed automatic transmission paired with the 3.5-liter V6, with optional all-wheel drive. If you’re considering the broader RX lineup and are curious about CVT-like behavior, note that only the RX 450h hybrid employs a hybrid-specific transmission (an eCVT), while the RX 350 remains with a traditional eight-speed automatic.
Which Lexus does not use CVT?
Many non-hybrid Lexus models are available without a CVT, including most gas-powered Lexus sedans and SUVs that use a traditional automatic transmission. You can find models with traditional automatics like the Lexus IS 250, and many newer non-hybrid Lexus models such as the ES 250, which uses an eight-speed automatic, and many others. Lexus also has hybrid models, which use an eCVT (electronic Continuously Variable Transmission), but these are mechanically different from belt-driven CVTs used in other brands.
You can watch this video to learn about some reliable cars without a CVT transmission, including a Lexus model: 1mGarage IQYouTube · Sep 8, 2025
Lexus models without a CVT
- Gas-powered sedans: The Lexus IS 250 historically came with a six-speed manual transmission, and other gas-powered models like the ES 250 feature a traditional eight-speed automatic.
- Gas-powered SUVs: Many gas-powered SUV models, such as the Lexus RX 350, use traditional automatic transmissions instead of CVTs.
- Note on hybrids: While many Lexus hybrids use a continuously variable transmission, they are often referred to as "eCVT" (electronic Continuously Variable Transmission) and are mechanically different from traditional belt-driven CVTs.
This video explains the difference between traditional CVTs and Lexus eCVTs: 1mGX460 OFF-ROADYouTube · Nov 9, 2022
How to identify a Lexus without a CVT
- Check the model: Look for models that are not hybrid or electric, as these are more likely to have traditional transmissions.
- Read the specs: Always check the specific model's specifications to confirm the transmission type, especially for hybrid models.
- Consider manual transmission: Some recent Lexus models have reintroduced manual transmissions, so if that is your preference, look for specific manual models like the new LBX hot hatch.
This video shows the new Lexus LBX hot hatch with a manual transmission: 49sKirk KreifelsYouTube · Jul 18, 2024
What year to avoid Lexus RX 350 used?
You should generally avoid the 2007, 2008, 2010, 2016, and 2017 model years of the Lexus RX 350 due to common issues like oil leaks, engine problems, and transmission issues. The 2007 and 2008 models are flagged for oil leaks and cracking dashboards, while the 2010 has known engine and rattling door problems. The 2016 and 2017 models are associated with transmission and oil leak issues.
This video discusses Lexus RX models to avoid and their issues: 1mThe Miles DrivenYouTube · Dec 18, 2024
Specific years to avoid
- 2007: Notorious for cracking dashboards and oil leaks.
- 2008: Did not see significant reliability improvements over 2007 and has reported issues with steering and oil leaks.
- 2010: Faced common engine and body integrity issues, including rattling doors.
- 2016: The first year of the fourth generation, it had issues with transmission problems and oil leaks.
- 2017: Another year to approach with caution due to transmission and oil leak problems.
Other considerations
- VVT-i oil line issue: A faulty VVT-i oil line can cause engine failure and is a problem seen in many models from 2007-2015, according to CarParts.com.
- First-year models: As a general rule, it's often best to avoid the first year of a new generation, which can have bugs that are worked out in later years.
- Reliable years: Some recommended, more reliable years include 2011–2015, 2018, and 2019.
Does the 2015 Lexus RX 350 have a CVT transmission?
An Atkinson-cycle 3.5-liter V6, Lexus Hybrid Drive and an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission with intelligence (ECVT-i). Class-leading1 30-mpg EPA- estimated combined rating. 2 295 total system horsepower. 3 Available with all-wheel drive.
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Does the RX350 have a CVT?
A naturally aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (paired with two electric motors) powers the lower RX 350 Hybrid trim levels and generates 246 horsepower and 233 pound-feet of torque. A Continuously Various Transmission (CVT) is standard. Only the RX Hybrid offers a powertrain upgrade.
