Does the Toyota Venza have a CVT transmission?
In short, the Venza uses an electronic CVT (e-CVT) as part of Toyota's hybrid system, not a traditional belt-driven CVT, and there is no non-hybrid gas-only Venza on sale today.
The Toyota Venza, redesigned for the 2021 model year, is a hybrid-only crossover that pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors. Its drivetrain is built around Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive and uses an e-CVT to manage power delivery, rather than a conventional automatic transmission. This article explains how that works and what it means for performance and ownership.
Transmission architecture and how it works
What is an e-CVT?
An electronic CVT (e-CVT) is a type of continuously variable transmission used in Toyota's hybrid systems. Instead of changing through fixed gears with a traditional belt, it blends a planetary gear set with electric motors to achieve a seamless, continuously variable range of gear ratios. This design prioritizes efficiency and smooth acceleration, especially when the gas engine shuts off or re-engages during driving.
Key facts about the Venza's transmission:
- Type: Electronic CVT (e-CVT) integrated with Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive.
- Hybrid only: No non-hybrid gasoline engine option; the system combines the 2.5L engine with electric motors.
- Drive options: Available in FWD and AWD configurations, both using the e-CVT.
- Gear behavior: Instead of discrete gears, the system continuously varies the effective gear ratio for smooth acceleration and efficiency.
- Maintenance context: Hybrid transmission fluid is maintained per Toyota's service schedule and is part of routine hybrid maintenance.
In summary, the Venza's transmission is an e-CVT, which is standard for Toyota hybrids, and it is designed to optimize efficiency rather than provide traditional gear shifts.
Availability and model years
The Venza was redesigned for the 2021 model year and has been offered exclusively as a hybrid since its return. As of 2024 and 2025, Toyota has continued to market the Venza as a hybrid-only crossover, with no plug-in or conventional gasoline-only version available in most markets.
What this means for buyers
For shoppers, the e-CVT in the Venza translates to smooth, quiet operation at low speeds and a seamless blend of gasoline and electric power. If you specifically want a traditional automatic with fixed-gears feel, the Venza may feel different from some conventional crossovers; however, it aligns with Toyota's current hybrid philosophy focused on efficiency and reliability.
Summary
The Toyota Venza uses an electronic CVT (e-CVT) as part of its hybrid system, not a traditional belt-driven CVT. It is hybrid-only with no gas-only option, available in FWD and AWD, and designed to maximize efficiency while delivering smooth acceleration. This aligns with Toyota's broader hybrid strategy in recent models.
