Does Lexus hybrid have CVT transmission?

Yes. Lexus hybrids use an electronically controlled CVT, known as an eCVT, rather than a traditional belt-driven CVT or a conventional automatic transmission.

In practice, the eCVT in Lexus hybrids blends power from the gasoline engine and one or more electric motors through a dedicated hybrid transaxle that uses a planetary gearset and a power-split device. This setup allows smooth, continuous torque delivery and optimized efficiency, without the stepped gear changes of many conventional automatics.

What is an eCVT and how does it work in Lexus hybrids?

The eCVT in Lexus hybrids is not a belt-driven variable-pitch CVT. Instead, it relies on a planetary gearset and two electric motors to continuously vary the effective gear ratio. The system is controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU) that coordinates engine speed, motor torque, and battery state of charge to keep the engine operating at its most efficient rev range while the electric motors handle drive torque.

Before the list: This section outlines the core elements of Lexus’s eCVT-based Hybrid Drive system.



• Power-split transaxle: A planetary gearset that splits drive power between the wheels and the generator/MG1 to optimize efficiency and behavior across speed ranges.


• MG1 and MG2: Two electric motors/generators that manage propulsion and charging roles. MG2 provides wheel torque, while MG1 assists with generator tasks and speed control.


• Electronic control: The transmission’s final gear ratio is managed by software rather than a belt position, enabling seamless torque delivery as conditions change.


• Fuel efficiency emphasis: The eCVT design helps maintain engine operation in its efficient zones, supporting low fuel consumption and reduced emissions.


• Maintenance considerations: The hybrid transaxle uses specialized fluids and service procedures; consult the owner’s manual or Lexus service guidelines for intervals and requirements.

In summary, the Lexus eCVT is a defining feature of its hybrid technology. It delivers smooth power delivery and efficiency, but it operates differently from a conventional belt-driven CVT and from traditional automatics.

Which Lexus models use the eCVT-based hybrid transaxle?

Across Lexus’s current hybrid lineup, the eCVT-based hybrid transaxle is used in the hybrid variants of several models. This includes popular segments from compact to full-size, ensuring consistent hybrid behavior and efficiency across the range.

Before listing the models, note that the following shows representative Lexus hybrid lines that commonly employ the eCVT-driven transaxle.



• UX Hybrid (UX 250h): A compact crossover with a hybrid powertrain backed by the eCVT system.


• ES Hybrid: A mid-size sedan that uses the hybrid transaxle to balance power and efficiency.


• NX Hybrid: A compact SUV with a hybrid setup leveraging the same eCVT architecture.


• RX Hybrid: A mid-size SUV offering the hybrid drive with the eCVT transaxle.


• LS Hybrid: A full-size option in the lineup using the same underlying hybrid transmission approach.

Regardless of model, Lexus’ hybrid variants generally rely on the eCVT-driven transaxle rather than a traditional belt CVT, aligning with Toyota’s broader approach to hybrid efficiency and reliability.

Summary

Bottom line: Yes, Lexus hybrids use an electronically controlled CVT, typically described as an eCVT. Rather than a conventional belt-driven CVT, the system uses a planetary gearset and electric motors to continuously vary the effective gear ratio. This design delivers smooth acceleration and strong efficiency across Lexus’s hybrid lineup, including models like the UX Hybrid, ES Hybrid, NX Hybrid, RX Hybrid, and LS Hybrid.

Are Lexus hybrids CVT?

E-CVT transmission can be found on all our Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid cars.

Which hybrids don't have CVT?

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 Lexus hybrid CVT reliable?

It uses a planetary gear set controlled by an electric motor-generator. There are no belts or pulleys to fail like in a traditional CVT. The Toyota/Lexus e-CVT has proven to be highly reliable for hundreds of thousands of miles and it's the same technology used in the Prius.

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