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Does a Highlander have a CVT transmission?

Quick take: not every Highlander uses a CVT. The Highlander Hybrid uses Toyota’s e-CVT, while gasoline-only Highlanders rely on traditional automatic transmissions, with the number of gears varying by model year and engine.

Transmission options by Highlander variant

Hybrid Highlander: e-CVT

Across the hybrid lineup, Toyota employs a continuously variable transmission tailored for hybrid operation. In Toyota terminology, this is an electronic CVT (e-CVT) rather than a conventional multi-gear automatic.

Before listing the variants, note that the Highlander Hybrid has used e-CVT since its introduction and has kept that configuration across generations.

First-generation Highlander Hybrid (introduced in 2005): e-CVT powering the hybrid system with a gasoline engine and electric motor(s).

Second-generation Highlander Hybrid (2008–2013): continued use of the e-CVT with the hybrid powertrain.

Third-generation Highlander Hybrid (2014–2019): e-CVT remains the transmission of choice for the hybrid model.

Fourth-generation Highlander Hybrid (2020–present): e-CVT retained, with improved efficiency and control software.

In summary, the Highlander Hybrid uses Toyota’s e-CVT as its transmission in every generation to date.

Gasoline-only Highlander: conventional automatic

Gasoline models of the Highlander rely on traditional automatics rather than a CVT. The exact number of gears has varied by generation and engine, with older models offering 4- or 5-speed automatics and later generations adopting larger automatics (up to 6- or 8-speed) depending on the powertrain.

Early gas-only Highlanders (first and second generations): conventional automatic transmissions with 4- or 5-speed gearsets, depending on the engine.

Mid-generation (third generation, roughly 2014–2019): traditional automatic with 6-speed, paired with the V6 or four-cylinder options.

Current generation (2020–present): gas-only Highlanders use an 8-speed automatic paired with the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, while hybrids continue to use the e-CVT.

Gasoline Highlanders do not use a CVT; they rely on traditional automatics, with the number of gears evolving across generations.

Summary

Bottom line: A Highlander does not universally have a CVT. If you’re looking at a Highlander Hybrid, expect Toyota’s e-CVT. For gas-powered Highlanders, expect a conventional automatic transmission, with the number of gears depending on model year and engine. Always verify the exact transmission in a given vehicle by checking the model year and trim or the owner’s manual.

What transmission is in a Toyota Highlander?

The Toyota Highlander uses different transmission types depending on whether the model is hybrid or non-hybrid. Non-hybrid models typically use an 8-speed automatic transmission, while hybrid models use a Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT).
Non-hybrid

Transmission Type: Direct Shift 8-speed automatic transmission (or 8-speed automatic).
How it works: This is a conventional automatic transmission that uses a torque converter and gears to shift through speeds.
When it's used: This is the standard transmission on newer, non-hybrid gas-powered Highlander models.

This video explains the maintenance procedure for a Toyota Highlander transmission: 56sThat Dad MikeYouTube · Jan 29, 2025
Hybrid

Transmission Type: Electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT).
How it works: This is not a traditional CVT with belts and pulleys. Instead, it's a more reliable planetary gear system that uses two motor/generators to control power distribution and optimize for fuel efficiency.
When it's used: This is the transmission found in all Highlander hybrid models.

Which Toyota has CVT transmission?

Toyota uses CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) and e-CVT (electronic Continuously Variable Transmission) in many of its models, including the Corolla, Corolla Cross, RAV4, Camry, Sienna, Prius, and Venza. The specific type of CVT depends on the model and powertrain, with many hybrid models using the e-CVT system.
This video explains how Toyota's e-CVT works in hybrid vehicles: 1mThe Engineers PostYouTube · Jun 3, 2025
Models with CVT / e-CVT

Corolla: Available with a CVT or e-CVT (in hybrid models).
Corolla Cross: Uses a CVT.
RAV4: Available with a CVT or e-CVT (in hybrid models).
Camry: Uses a CVT or e-CVT (in hybrid models).
Sienna: Uses a CVT.
Prius: Uses an e-CVT.
Venza: Uses a CVT.
Corolla Cross Hybrid: Uses an e-CVT.
Highlander Hybrid: Uses an e-CVT.
Crown: Uses a CVT.
Yaris: Available with a CVT in certain regions.
GR Corolla: Uses a CVT.

Key differences

CVT: A traditional continuously variable transmission that uses a belt and pulley system to create an infinite number of gear ratios.
e-CVT: An electronic CVT, commonly found in Toyota hybrids, that uses a planetary gearset to manage power from the gasoline engine and electric motor for optimal efficiency and performance.

This video explains the differences between various transmission types, including CVT and e-CVT: 47sCar Help CornerYouTube · Oct 19, 2025

Which Highlander has CVT transmission?

The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, on the other hand, is available with five trim options. All are powered by the same four-cylinder, 2.5-liter hybrid engine. This system includes a continuously variable transmission and delivers 243 horsepower.

Which Toyotas do not have CVT transmission?

Toyota models that do not have a continuously variable transmission (CVT) include the 4Runner, Tacoma, Tundra, Land Cruiser, and Supra. The 86 also does not have a CVT, and the Corolla is only available with a manual transmission in its high-performance GR model, while other models may have a CVT or a manual option depending on the year and configuration.

Models without a CVT

4Runner: This SUV is equipped with a traditional automatic transmission.
Land Cruiser: A rugged SUV that does not use a CVT.
Tacoma: This truck uses a traditional automatic or manual transmission.
Tundra: A full-size truck that also uses traditional automatic or manual transmissions.
Supra: This sports car does not use a CVT.
86: Toyota's sports car counterpart to the Subaru BRZ, it features a traditional automatic or manual gearbox.
Corolla: While many gas-powered models have a CVT, the GR Corolla is an exception and offers a manual transmission.

Other Toyota vehicles

Some models, like the Avalon and Camry, may offer a CVT in certain configurations or hybrid versions, while non-hybrid versions might have a traditional automatic transmission.
The Highlander also offers a traditional automatic transmission, but some hybrid models have an electric CVT (eCVT) which is different from a belt-and-pulley CVT.
The Yaris is a hybrid model that comes with a CVT automatic transmission.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.