Does the Toyota Prius have a CVT?
Yes, it's an electronic CVT (e-CVT), not a conventional belt-driven CVT.
The Prius uses a planetary gear-based Power Split Device to blend power from the gasoline engine and electric motors, delivering a continuously variable drive ratio without the typical belt-and-pulley setup. This configuration has defined Prius drivetrains across generations and remains in the latest models, including the Prius Prime when operating in hybrid mode.
How the e-CVT works in practice
In the Prius, the engine, MG1, MG2, and the planetary gearset form the hybrid drive. The system automatically varies the ratio and torque split to optimize efficiency, support electric-only starting, charging, and regenerative braking.
Core components of the Prius e-CVT
Below are the main parts that enable the e-CVT functionality:
- Power Split Device (Planetary gearset) that combines engine and motor power
- MG1 (generator) and MG2 (traction motor)
- Gasoline engine paired with an electric drive system
- Hybrid battery pack and power electronics
Collectively, these components permit seamless transitions between electric, hybrid, and engine-assisted driving, with the system smoothing power delivery without traditional gear shifts.
Is it still considered a CVT?
Automakers typically refer to this as an e-CVT because its behavior is continuously variable, but it uses a planetary gearset rather than a belt-driven pulley system. So, while it provides a continuous range of ratios, it is not a conventional CVT in the common belt-and-pulley sense.
Gen and model variance
The Prius family—including the standard Prius hybrid and the Prius Prime plug-in—uses the same e-CVT architecture, though efficiency targets and battery capacity vary by generation and model year. In all, the system remains designed for efficiency, smoothness, and the ability to run on electric power at low speeds when possible.
Summary
The Toyota Prius does have a CVT-like transmission, but it is an electronic CVT (e-CVT) powered by a planetary gearset (Power Split Device) rather than a traditional belt-driven CVT. It enables seamless blending of gas and electric power and supports regenerative braking, which is central to Prius efficiency across generations.
Which Toyotas have no CVT?
Toyota: The 86, Avalon (non-hybrid), Mirai, Supra, 4Runner, Highlander, Camry (non-hybrid), Corolla (manual only), Yaris (manual only), 4Runner, Highlander (non-hybrid), Land Cruiser, rav4 (non-hybrid), Tacoma and Tundra are not equipped with CVTs.
Does the Toyota Prius have a CVT transmission?
The Prius is a compact hybrid vehicle that has an Electronic controlled Continuously Variable Transmission.
Which Toyotas have a CVT transmission?
What Toyota Models Have A CVT?
- Toyota Camry.
- Toyota C-HR.
- Toyota Corolla.
- Toyota Prius.
- Toyota RAV4.
- And many others!
What type of transmission is in a Toyota Prius?
Direction. We start going real fast so now we're on the highway. And we've changed our speed. But we haven't changed gears. So we have a CVT.
