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Does the 2016 Acura MDX have a CVT transmission?

No. The 2016 MDX does not use a CVT. The standard gasoline version uses a 9-speed automatic transmission, while the Sport Hybrid employs a hybrid-specific multi-gear setup that is not a CVT.

Overview of MDX transmissions for the 2016 model year

The 2016 MDX lineup features two distinct drivetrain approaches: a traditional gas-powered version with a multi-gear automatic and a hybrid variant with a specialized hybrid transmission. Neither configuration uses a conventional CVT, but they differ in how gears are managed to balance performance and efficiency.

Gas-powered MDX: 9-speed automatic transmission

What you should know about the gas-powered MDX’s transmission setup is summarized below.

Transmission type: 9-speed automatic (9AT), not a CVT

Engine pairing: 3.5-liter V6 (J35Y1) paired with the 9AT

Drive configurations: Front-wheel drive or SH-AWD (all-wheel drive)

Shift characteristics: Smooth, progressive gearing designed for efficiency and performance

Markets and trims: Applies across the standard MDX trims for 2016

In summary, the gas MDX uses a conventional 9-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts and flexible gearing without a CVT.

MDX Sport Hybrid: 7-speed dual-clutch hybrid transmission

The hybrid variant employs a dedicated hybrid transmission rather than a traditional CVT, reflecting its unique three-motor hybrid system.

Transmission type: Hybrid-specific 7-speed dual-clutch automatic integrated with a three-motor hybrid system

Powertrain: Combines a V6 engine with electric motors to boost efficiency and torque

Drivetrain: SH-AWD available on hybrid models

Not a CVT: Uses a fixed-gear hybrid transmission rather than a continuous variable setup

Overall, the MDX Sport Hybrid uses a dedicated hybrid transmission with multiple modes to optimize efficiency and performance, not a CVT.

Summary

The 2016 Acura MDX does not feature a CVT in either its gas-powered or hybrid form. The gas version pairs a 3.5L V6 with a 9-speed automatic, while the Sport Hybrid uses a 7-speed dual-clutch hybrid transmission as part of its three-motor system. Both configurations are designed to deliver smooth shifts and strong efficiency without a CVT.

Was 2016 a good year for the Acura MDX?

Edmunds says. Offering familiar comfort, value and performance plus a slew of updates, the 2016 Acura MDX is a top pick among three-row luxury crossovers.

What is the transmission lawsuit on the 2016 Acura MDX?

The lawsuit alleges, among other things, that Honda: failed to disclose that these vehicles contain certain defects that cause unintended and unpredictable deceleration, engine stalls, hesitation upon depressing the gas pedal, abrupt shutdowns and shifts into neutral while driving, and enter "Limp Mode"; and.

What kind of transmission is in the 2016 Acura MDX?

The 2016 Acura MDX is equipped with a standard 9-speed automatic transmission. This was an upgrade from the previous model year, which had a 6-speed automatic. The new transmission also features a push-button electronic gear selector and is linked to the Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) for different driving modes like comfort, normal, and sport.

Transmission: 9-speed automatic
Gear Selector: Push-button electronic gear selector
Driving Modes: Integrated with the Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) for comfort, normal, and sport modes

Which Acura has a CVT transmission?

Acura models that use a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) include the Integra and the MDX. While the Integra comes standard with a CVT (in certain trims), other models like the MDX often have it as an option or are available with other transmission types.
This video shows a review of the 2023 Acura Integra A-Spec with a CVT transmission: 24sHawkeye RidesYouTube · Dec 17, 2022

Integra: The Integra's standard engine is paired with a CVT, which is also available on A-Spec trims. The manual transmission is an option on some trims.
MDX: The MDX is an example of an Acura SUV that has used a CVT transmission.
RDX: The RDX is another model that offers a CVT, with some models pairing the CVT with a 2.0-liter VTEC Turbo engine.
TLX: The TLX uses a 10-speed automatic transmission, not a CVT.

This video explains the differences between the 2025 Acura TLX A-Spec and a BMW: 59sRaiti's RidesYouTube · May 14, 2025

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.