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Does the Ford Escape use CVT?

The answer: Gasoline Escapes primarily use an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid versions rely on an electronic CVT (eCVT) rather than a traditional belt-driven CVT.

The transmission choice in the Escape depends on powertrain: gasoline models rely on a conventional automatic, whereas hybrid variants pair a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric motor and an electronic CVT to optimize efficiency and performance. Here is a breakdown by powertrain and model-year considerations.

Gas-powered Escapes: 8-speed automatic

What you should know about the non-hybrid Escape transmissions and how they operate across trim levels.

Gas-only Escapes use an 8-speed automatic transmission (the Ford 8F family is common in this model).

There is no traditional belt-driven CVT in gas-only Escapes; shifts are stepped via the automatic.

Both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations share the same 8-speed automatic across the common engine options (such as EcoBoost variants).

Model-year updates for the current generation continue to rely on the 8-speed automatic for gasoline powertrains.

In short, if your Escape is powered by a traditional gasoline engine, expect an 8‑speed automatic rather than a CVT.

Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Escapes: eCVT

For hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants, Ford uses an electronic CVT setup designed to work with the hybrid drivetrain, rather than a conventional belt-driven CVT.

The Escape Hybrid pairs a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle engine with an electric motor and a planetary gearset controlled by electronics to provide a continuously variable feel.

The Escape Plug-in Hybrid uses the same eCVT architecture but with a larger battery and a defined electric-only range (EPA-estimated around 30–40 miles depending on year and conditions).

Because the eCVT is integrated with the hybrid system, there are no traditional shift points; acceleration tends to be smooth and seamless.

Maintenance and reliability considerations for Ford’s eCVT-based hybrids are generally on par with other modern hybrid drivetrains, with routine hybrid-system service as needed.

Bottom line: if the Escape is a hybrid or PHEV, it uses an electronic CVT rather than a traditional CVT designed for gasoline operation.

Notes on how “CVT” is used in Ford documentation

Automakers often label the hybrid transmission as an eCVT to reflect its electronic control of a continuously variable ratio via a hybrid drivetrain—distinct from a belt-driven traditional CVT found in some non-hybrid models. For buyers, the practical effect is that hybrids feel smoothly accelerated with no distinct gear shifts, while gas-only models feel like they’re shifting through fixed gears.

Summary

Across the Ford Escape lineup, transmission type depends on powertrain. Gas models use an 8-speed automatic transmission, while hybrids and plug-in hybrids employ an electronic CVT (eCVT) designed to optimize hybrid efficiency and performance. This means the Escape does not use a traditional CVT in its gasoline versions, but it does use an eCVT in its hybrid configurations.

Does a 2012 Ford Escape have a CVT transmission?

Transmission choices include a five-speed manual, six-speed automatic, and a CVT. For 2012 the Ford Escape still comes standard with eco-friendly soy-based seats, and safety features like traction control, roll stability control and side curtain airbags.

Does Ford use CVT transmissions?

Yes, Ford uses CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) in some of its vehicles, particularly in hybrid and smaller models like the Ford Escape Hybrid, Ford Escape PHEV, and the Ford Maverick. The company has also offered CVTs in other applications, and their newer electric hybrid models use an eCVT which operates differently than traditional CVTs.

Current models: Ford currently offers CVTs in the Escape Hybrid, Escape PHEV, and Maverick.
Technology: These transmissions replace traditional gears with a belt and pulley system (or an electric motor system for hybrids) for a more efficient and seamless driving experience.
Benefits: CVTs are known for improving fuel efficiency and providing a smoother driving experience without traditional gear shifts.
Other applications: Ford has previously used CVTs in models like the C-MAX and may consider them for other small-engine vehicles in the future.

Do Ford Escapes have CVT transmissions?

Yes, Ford Escapes have CVT transmissions, but only in the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. Gasoline-only models use a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission.
You can watch this video to learn how to change the transmission fluid in a Ford 8-speed automatic transmission: 46sFordTechMakulocoYouTube · Jan 17, 2024

Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid Models: These Escapes use an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (eCVT).
Gasoline-Only Models: These models are equipped with a conventional 8-speed automatic transmission, not a CVT.

This video explains the process of replacing a transmission in a Ford Escape: 1mHow To Escape: DIY, Tips, and ReviewsYouTube · Apr 27, 2024

What type of transmission in Ford Escape?

The Ford Escape transmission type varies by model year and engine. Gasoline models use an 8-speed automatic transmission (some older models use a 6-speed automatic), while hybrid and plug-in hybrid models use a continuously variable transmission (CVT). You can find your specific transmission type on the vehicle's window sticker, a build sheet, or by using a VIN decode letter.
Gasoline models

8-speed automatic: The most common transmission for newer gasoline models, used with the 1.5L and 2.0L EcoBoost engines in model years like 2020-2022.
6-speed automatic: Older models, such as the 2014-2016 Escapes, used the 6F35 6-speed automatic transmission.

Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid models

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT): Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models use an electronically controlled CVT (eCVT).

How to find your transmission type

Check your window sticker or build sheet.
Use the VIN decode letter to look up the specific specifications for your vehicle.

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.