Does the Toyota Camry use CVT transmission?
In the current Camry lineup, not all models use a CVT. The hybrid variant uses an electronic CVT (e-CVT), while the gasoline-only models rely on a traditional automatic with eight speeds.
Transmission options by Camry powertrain
The following breakdown explains which Camry powertrains use which type of transmission.
- Gasoline-powered Camry (non-hybrid) — 8-speed automatic transmission (traditional, not a CVT).
- Camry Hybrid — electronically controlled CVT (e-CVT) that blends engine and electric motor for smooth output.
This breakdown reflects the current U.S. market availability and similar offerings in major global markets; regional variations can occur and future model years may adjust the lineup.
Understanding the e-CVT in hybrids
The e-CVT used in Camry Hybrid is not a conventional belt-and-pulley CVT. It employs a power-split device (a planetary gearset) to continuously vary the power split between the gasoline engine and electric motor, delivering seamless acceleration and improved efficiency. This design is common across Toyota hybrids, including the Camry, Prius, and RAV4 Hybrid. In contrast, the gas Camry uses a traditional eight-speed automatic that provides stepped gear changes and a different driving feel.
Summary
In short, the Camry lineup does not use a single CVT configuration. Gasoline Camry models rely on an eight-speed automatic, while the Camry Hybrid uses an e-CVT. This reflects Toyota’s approach to balancing traditional gasoline performance with hybrid efficiency.
Which lasts longer, CVT or automatic?
Both systems require care, but they wear in different ways. CVTs may need more frequent fluid changes and can be more costly to repair when they fail. Automatic transmissions tend to last longer and are often easier to service—though that depends on the make and model.
Which Camry does not have CVT?
You can get a Toyota Camry without a CVT transmission by choosing a non-hybrid model from before the 2025 model year, which uses a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid and all-new 2025 models use an eCVT (electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission), which is different from a traditional belt-driven CVT.
Camry models with an 8-speed automatic
- 2024 and earlier non-hybrid models: These models are equipped with a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission, not a CVT.
- Note: Some earlier non-hybrid models (e.g., 2012-2014) may have had a torque converter issue that was addressed through an extended warranty program.
Camry models with an eCVT
- 2025 and newer models: The 2025 Camry is only available as a hybrid and comes with an eCVT.
- Hybrid models: All hybrid Camry models, including the all-new 2025 version, use a hybrid system with an eCVT.
What to know about the eCVT
- The eCVT is a different design from a traditional CVT and is considered more reliable.
- It uses planetary gears and an electric motor instead of a belt to achieve its ratios, which is a significant mechanical difference from a standard CVT.
Which Toyota cars have CVT transmission?
Toyota uses CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) and e-CVT (electronic Continuously Variable Transmission) in many of its models, including the Corolla, Corolla Cross, RAV4, Camry, Sienna, Prius, and Venza. The specific type of CVT depends on the model and powertrain, with many hybrid models using the e-CVT system.
Models with CVT / e-CVT
- Corolla: Available with a CVT or e-CVT (in hybrid models).
- Corolla Cross: Uses a CVT.
- RAV4: Available with a CVT or e-CVT (in hybrid models).
- Camry: Uses a CVT or e-CVT (in hybrid models).
- Sienna: Uses a CVT.
- Prius: Uses an e-CVT.
- Venza: Uses a CVT.
- Corolla Cross Hybrid: Uses an e-CVT.
- Highlander Hybrid: Uses an e-CVT.
- Crown: Uses a CVT.
- Yaris: Available with a CVT in certain regions.
- GR Corolla: Uses a CVT.
Key differences
- CVT: A traditional continuously variable transmission that uses a belt and pulley system to create an infinite number of gear ratios.
- e-CVT: An electronic CVT, commonly found in Toyota hybrids, that uses a planetary gearset to manage power from the gasoline engine and electric motor for optimal efficiency and performance.
Does the Toyota Camry have a CVT transmission?
Yes, many modern Toyota Camry models, especially the hybrid versions, come with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The newest 2025 Camry lineup is exclusively hybrid and features an electronically controlled CVT (ECVT). Previous non-hybrid gasoline models typically used traditional automatic transmissions.
Camry transmission details
- Hybrid models: Both older and newer hybrid Camrys use a CVT, often called an electronically controlled CVT (ECVT).
- Gasoline-only models: For several years, non-hybrid gas models used a conventional 8-speed automatic transmission instead of a CVT.
- 2025 Camry: The latest model year is exclusively a hybrid, and all versions use the ECVT.
What this means for you
- If you are looking at a 2025 Camry, it will have an ECVT.
- If you are looking at a hybrid Camry from a previous year (e.g., 2018), it will have a CVT.
- If you are looking at a non-hybrid Camry from a previous year (e.g., 2018), it will have a traditional automatic transmission.
