Is the Honda CR-V automatic or manual?

The current Honda CR-V is automatic-only, using a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in gasoline models and an electronic CVT (e-CVT) in the hybrid version. There is no manual gearbox option for new CR-V models in major markets today.

To understand what this means for buyers and how the transmission options differ across variants and regions, here is a closer look at the CR-V’s current drivetrain setup and its historical context.

Current transmission setup

The CR-V lineup relies on automatic transmissions across all recent models. The details vary by variant, but a manual gearbox is not offered in the modern lineup.

• Gasoline CR-V (non-hybrid): Standard and widely available with a CVT, with all-wheel drive available on higher trims. No manual option is offered.


• CR-V Hybrid: Uses an integrated e-CVT (electronic CVT) paired with the hybrid powertrain for smooth operation and fuel efficiency. No manual option is available.


• Market availability: In major markets such as the United States, Canada, Europe, and many others, current CR-V models are automatic-only.

In practice, buyers seeking a manual transmission will not find a new CR-V with a traditional stick shift or a manual clutch in the current lineup. The automatic setup is highlighted for efficiency and ease of use, especially in urban driving and mixed conditions.

Historical context

Historically, some earlier CR-V generations offered a manual transmission in certain markets, but this configuration was phased out long ago. Today, Honda’s focus for the CR-V is on automatic transmissions (CVT or e-CVT) across the globe, aligning with current market preferences for efficiency and low emissions.

Why automatic transmissions are standard

Automatic transmissions, particularly CVTs, are favored in crossovers like the CR-V for smoother acceleration, improved fuel economy, and easier driving in stop-and-go traffic. The hybrid variant’s e-CVT integrates seamlessly with the electric motor, supporting efficient power delivery and reduced emissions.

Bottom line for potential buyers

For model years 2024 and 2025, the Honda CR-V is not offered with a manual transmission in the major markets where it is sold. If a manual is essential, shoppers would need to consider alternative models or older CR-V generations in specific markets where a manual option may have existed historically, though these are no longer part of the current lineup.

Summary

The Honda CR-V currently operates with automatic transmissions across its gasoline and hybrid variants, with no manual option available in contemporary models. This reflects a broader industry trend toward CVTs and electrified drivetrains in compact crossovers. If manual shifting is a priority, consumers should look at older models or other Honda vehicles that offered a manual in the past, while understanding it is not present in the current CR-V lineup.

Did they make manual Honda CR-V?

1998: Saving the Manuals
Honda expands the CR-V line for 1998, adding an available five-speed manual and front-drive option to the mix. The automaker also begins delineating the CR-V by trims, offering it in LX and EX guises.

Which CR-V to stay away from?

You should be wary of the Honda CR-V models from 2007–2009 and 2017–2019, as these years are frequently cited for significant issues like HVAC failures, engine problems, and electrical glitches. Other models to approach with caution include 2011 (excessive oil consumption) and 2014-2015 (engine vibrations).
 
Years with more reported issues

• 2007–2009: This generation experienced issues with HVAC systems, paint, and airbag malfunctions. 
• 2011: Known for excessive oil consumption, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed. 
• 2014–2015: Prone to engine vibrations, especially at idle. The 2015 model also had issues with the new CVT transmission. 
• 2017–2019: The first years of the fifth generation had a significant problem with gasoline diluting the engine oil, which can lead to serious engine damage. Some models also reported electrical problems. 

Important considerations

• Engine oil dilution: This was a major issue for the 2017 and 2018 models with the 1.5L turbo engine, as gas could mix with the oil, reducing its lubricating properties. 
• HVAC failures: Common in the 2007 model, with early and expensive AC compressor failures being frequently reported. 
• Vibrations: Specifically, the 2014 and 2015 models had noticeable engine vibrations, particularly at low speeds or idle. 
• Excessive oil consumption: The 2011 model is notorious for this, which can cause major engine problems if ignored. 

What was the last year of the manual transmission in the Honda CR-V?

The last year the Honda CR-V was offered with a manual transmission in the United States was 2006. The second-generation CR-V, which ran from 2002 to 2006, was the last to include the manual option. 
You can watch this video to learn about the history of the Honda CR-V, including when manual transmissions were available: 54sAcura AdviceYouTube · Apr 23, 2025

• Last model year: The 2006 model year was the final one for the manual CR-V. 
• Generation: This was during the second generation of the CR-V, which spanned from 2002 to 2006. 
• Availability: Both manual and automatic transmissions were offered for the 2006 model year, but the manual transmission was dropped after this year. 

This video reviews a manual 2000 Honda CR-V and discusses its features: 59sShooting CarsYouTube · Nov 24, 2023

Is the Honda CR-V automatic or manual?

No, the modern Honda CR-V is not available with a manual transmission; it comes exclusively with an automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT) for both its gasoline and hybrid models. Some older generations of the CR-V offered a manual transmission, but this option was dropped from the US market, so all new and recent models sold in North America are automatic.
 

• Modern CR-V: Uses a CVT, which can be programmed to simulate gear shifts for a more familiar driving feel, notes MotorBiscuit and Honda Info Center. 
• Older CR-V: Some older generations, like the third generation, were offered with a manual transmission before the option was discontinued in the US, according to Wikipedia. 
• Availability: While new CR-Vs are automatic, you can find used models with a manual transmission for sale, explains Parkers.