Does the Honda Clarity have a CVT transmission?

Yes, the Honda Clarity does have a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Clarity is a hybrid electric vehicle that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor, and the CVT is an integral part of its powertrain.

What is a CVT Transmission?

A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is an automatic transmission that can provide an infinite number of gear ratios, rather than the fixed gear ratios found in a traditional automatic transmission. This allows the engine to operate at its most efficient rpm range, improving fuel efficiency. CVTs use a belt or chain running between two variable-diameter pulleys to provide a seamless and stepless gear ratio change.

The Honda Clarity's Powertrain

The Honda Clarity is available in three different powertrain configurations: a plug-in hybrid, a fuel cell electric vehicle, and a standard hybrid. All three versions use a CVT transmission to deliver power to the wheels.

• The Clarity Plug-In Hybrid combines a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack. The CVT transmission manages the power delivery from both the engine and electric motor.


• The Clarity Fuel Cell uses a hydrogen fuel cell to generate electricity, which then powers an electric motor. This electric drivetrain also uses a CVT transmission.


• The standard Clarity Hybrid pairs the 1.5-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor, with the CVT transmission coordinating the two power sources.

The use of a CVT transmission in the Honda Clarity helps maximize the efficiency of its hybrid and electric powertrains, providing smooth and seamless acceleration while optimizing fuel economy.

Which Honda models are CVT?

Many recent Honda models come with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), including the Civic, Accord, CR-V, and HR-V. Hybrid and electric models often use an electronic CVT (eCVT), such as the Accord Hybrid, Insight, and Clarity Plug-in Hybrid. Specific models and trims will have the CVT, so it's important to check the vehicle's specifications.
 
This video explains different types of transmissions, including CVT: 1mThe Engineers PostYouTube · Jun 3, 2025

• Honda Civic: Available on sedan, coupe, and hatchback models, including hybrid versions.
• Honda Accord: Available on the standard model and the hybrid version.
• Honda CR-V: Available on the regular and hybrid models.
• Honda HR-V: Available on this subcompact SUV.
• Honda Insight: Also uses an eCVT.
• Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid: Uses an eCVT.
• Honda Fit: This subcompact car also came equipped with a CVT.
• Honda Prologue: This all-electric SUV uses a form of CVT. 

Does a Honda Clarity have a CVT transmission?

Engine and Transmission
Power is regulated by a CVT-which is typical for a hybrid-which simulates gear shifts. The electric motor's high torque output gives the vehicle surprising pep from pull-off, but the speed tapers off quickly, making the Clarity most suited for town driving.

Which Hondas do not have CVT transmissions?

Honda models available without a CVT transmission include the Civic Si (manual only), Pilot, Passport, Ridgeline, and Odyssey. Some older models or specific trims of other cars, like a pre-2017 CR-V or a pre-2015 Accord, may also have a traditional automatic or manual transmission, so check the VIN for specifics when buying a used car. 
This video explains why some people prefer cars without CVT transmissions: 59sGarage IQYouTube · Sep 8, 2025
Models with standard transmissions

• Honda Civic Si: This model comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission and is known for being a fun-to-drive performance sedan. 
• Honda Pilot: The Pilot is an SUV that uses a traditional automatic transmission instead of a CVT. 
• Honda Passport: Like the Pilot, this SUV features a conventional automatic transmission. 
• Honda Ridgeline: The Ridgeline, Honda's truck, does not use a CVT. 
• Honda Odyssey: This minivan is equipped with a traditional automatic transmission. 

Older models and specific trims

• Some older models may have been equipped with different transmissions. For example:
  • Some pre-2015 Honda Accord models came with a traditional 10-speed automatic, but this was discontinued in favor of CVTs in later years.
  • Pre-2017 Honda CR-V models often came with a 5-speed automatic instead of a CVT, but it is important to check the VIN when buying a used vehicle. 

Important considerations for used cars

• When looking at used Honda models, check the VIN or consult with a mechanic to confirm the transmission type. A vehicle with a CVT may be listed with "0 gears".
• If a model you are interested in originally came with a CVT, it is still worth checking if the specific trim you want was made with a different transmission. Sometimes, dealers may have options you can special order.