Does Honda City have a CVT transmission?
Yes — in most markets the Honda City is equipped with a CVT automatic (or e-CVT in the hybrid), with manual transmissions available only on a few regional trims. This overview reflects the City lineup as of 2024–2025 and notes that exact specs can vary by country and model year.
Overview of transmission options
The City family has largely standardized on automatic transmissions in its petrol variants, with Honda favoring a continuously variable transmission (CVT) to optimize efficiency and smoothness. A traditional manual gearbox remains available only in limited regional trims and older generations, and it is becoming increasingly uncommon in newer models. For buyers interested in hybrid technology, the City Hybrid uses Honda’s e-CVT system, designed for seamless power delivery between electric motors and the gasoline engine.
Petrol variants and CVT
In most markets, the petrol 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine is paired with a CVT that provides smooth acceleration and competitive fuel economy. The CVT is tuned to balance everyday usability with efficiency, and some regions may offer additional features like selectable drive modes or paddle shifters to simulate stepped gear behavior.
City Hybrid (e-CVT)
The City e:HEV introduces Honda’s two-motor hybrid system, which uses an electronic CVT-like arrangement (often referred to as e-CVT). This setup prioritizes efficient transitions between electric and gasoline power and is distinct from a conventional CVT used in non-hybrid models.
Regional variations
Transmission offerings vary by market and model year. In several Asian markets—where the City is most widely sold—the petrol City is commonly available with a CVT automatic across mid- to high-trim levels, while manual transmissions are increasingly scarce and limited to specific trims or older stock. Where the City is offered as a hybrid, the e-CVT configuration is standard. Some regions may not offer a manual option at all in the latest generations.
Bottom line
For most buyers, the Honda City’s default transmission in petrol form is a CVT automatic, with the hybrid variant using an e-CVT. Manual transmissions exist only on a narrow set of trims and markets, and are much less common in newer models. Always verify the exact transmission listed in your country’s official specifications for the specific model year you’re considering.
Summary
The Honda City primarily uses CVT or e-CVT transmissions across its current lineup, aligning with global trends toward automatic efficiency. Manual options are rare in recent generations and largely restricted to certain regional trims. When shopping, check the local spec sheet to confirm which transmission is offered for the City you want.
Which Honda cars have no CVT?
Honda models like the Passport, Pilot, Ridgeline, and Odyssey are not equipped with CVT transmissions. Additionally, the Civic Type R and Civic Si are manual-only, and certain Fit models are available with a manual transmission. For other models, CVTs are common, so you'll need to confirm transmission options, particularly on newer or performance-oriented trims.
Models without a CVT
- Passport: This SUV uses a traditional automatic transmission, not a CVT.
- Pilot: This full-size SUV has historically used a traditional automatic transmission with its V6 engine.
- Ridgeline: As the brand's truck, the Ridgeline does not have a CVT.
- Odyssey: This minivan is not equipped with a CVT.
- Civic Type R: This high-performance model is only offered with a six-speed manual transmission.
- Civic Si: The performance-oriented Si trim is manual-only, avoiding the CVT altogether, as shown in this YouTube video.
- Fit: While many Fit models come with a CVT, certain models are available with a manual transmission, according to Car City Wholesale.
How to confirm transmission type
- For newer models: Check the specific trim level online, as performance or larger engine models are more likely to have a traditional automatic.
- For used models: You may need to check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or have a mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection to determine the transmission type, notes Bobs Driveline.
Which Hondas have a CVT engine?
Honda Models with CVT
Honda Accord. Honda Accord Hybrid. Honda Civic. Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid.
What transmission does Honda City use?
The engines are paired to either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission.
Does Honda City have CVT?
1.5L DOHC i-VTEC in Honda City is available in 7-speed CVT and 6-speed MT.
