What Toyotas have a CVT transmission?

In short, Toyota uses CVT transmissions primarily in its hybrid lineup (as e-CVT) and, in some markets, on a few non-hybrid models such as the Corolla and C-HR.

To understand how this plays out in practice, this article breaks down which Toyota models use CVT transmissions, distinguishes between the hybrid e-CVT systems and non-hybrid CVTs, and notes regional and model-year variations.

Hybrids with e-CVT (Toyota’s hybrid CVT family)

The following list covers Toyota models that use the electronic continuously variable transmission commonly branded as e-CVT, which is designed for seamless integration with hybrid powertrains.

• Prius — e-CVT


• Corolla Hybrid — e-CVT


• Camry Hybrid — e-CVT


• RAV4 Hybrid — e-CVT


• Highlander Hybrid — e-CVT


• Sienna Hybrid — e-CVT

These hybrids rely on the e-CVT to optimize the balance between gasoline and electric propulsion, delivering smooth acceleration and fuel efficiency across various driving conditions.

Non-hybrid Toyotas with CVT (in certain markets and model years)

In some regions and model years, Toyota has offered CVT transmissions for non-hybrid variants of a few models. Availability is market-specific, and many regions reserve traditional automatics for non-hybrid trims.

• Corolla (non-hybrid) — CVT


• C-HR (non-hybrid) — CVT


• Yaris/Auris (market-specific small cars) — CVT

Note: In the United States, the Corolla and C-HR are the primary non-hybrid Toyotas historically equipped with CVTs, while many other non-hybrid Toyotas use fixed-gear automatics (8-, 9-, or 10-speed). Market and model-year variations mean some regions may list different transmission options.

Regional and model-year caveats

Transmission choices can shift between model years and regions. Toyota continues to rely on e-CVT for hybrids, and CVTs in non-hybrid variants are largely limited to select markets and trims. Always verify the exact transmission type for your specific model year and region with official Toyota specifications or a dealer.

For shoppers seeking a CVT, the most consistent options across current Toyota hybrids are Prius, Corolla Hybrid, Camry Hybrid, RAV4 Hybrid, Highlander Hybrid, and Sienna Hybrid. If you specifically want a CVT in a non-hybrid Toyota, check regional availability for Corolla (non-hybrid), C-HR (non-hybrid), and any market-specific small-car offerings.

Summary

Toyota predominantly uses CVTs in its hybrid models (as e-CVT) to optimize efficiency and smooth operation. In certain markets, a few non-hybrid Toyota models also offer CVTs, notably the Corolla and C-HR, with regional/model-year variations. Always confirm the exact transmission with the dealer for the year and country you are considering.

Why avoid CVT transmission?

You may want to avoid CVT transmissions due to concerns about their durability, potential for costly repairs, and different driving feel compared to traditional automatic transmissions. While offering better fuel economy, some CVTs have a history of premature failure, a lack of repairability, and an unengaging driving experience. 
This video explains how to avoid common problems with CVT transmissions: 58sFix & Cruise YouTube · Jun 29, 2025
Durability and reliability

• Shorter lifespan: Some models, especially earlier versions from manufacturers like Nissan, have been known to fail before reaching 100,000 miles. 
• Heat sensitivity: CVTs can be sensitive to high temperatures, which can be exacerbated by city driving with heavy traffic, and may lead to overheating and component wear. 
• Less robust: CVTs are often not built to handle heavy loads, making them unsuitable for towing trailers, campers, or boats regularly. 

This video explains why CVT transmissions can fail early: 51sGarage IQYouTube · Aug 10, 2025
Repair and maintenance

• Costly repairs: If a CVT fails, it often requires a complete replacement rather than a repair, and replacement costs can be high, ranging from thousands of dollars. 
• Lack of serviceability: Many CVTs are sealed units without a dipstick, making internal fluid checks and servicing difficult and often necessitating a full replacement upon failure. 
• Specialized parts: CVT repairs can be expensive because they require specialized parts and training, which may be harder to find. 

Driving feel and performance

• Monotonous engine sound: CVTs maintain a constant engine speed during acceleration, which can be monotonous to some drivers who prefer the feel and sound of a traditional transmission with distinct gear shifts. 
• Delayed response: There can be a slight delay when accelerating from a stop as the transmission adjusts its pulleys. 
• Performance compromise: CVTs are often optimized for fuel efficiency rather than performance, so they may feel less responsive or "listless" to drivers who prefer a sportier feel. 

This video discusses the pros and cons of CVT transmissions: 1mRealistickYouTube · Jul 26, 2024

Do any Toyotas have CVT transmissions?

Yes, many modern Toyota vehicles use Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) for improved fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration. Toyota has also introduced its "Direct Shift-CVT" which adds a launch gear for a more direct feel during startup while maintaining the benefits of a CVT.
 

• What it is: A CVT has no fixed gears, instead using a system of pulleys and a steel belt to provide an infinite range of gear ratios. 
• Benefits: This allows the engine to stay in its most efficient range, improving fuel economy, and provides smooth acceleration without the feeling of gear changes. 
• Examples of models: The CVT is a standard or available feature in many models, including the Corolla, Prius, RAV4, Camry, and Sienna (in hybrid versions). 
• Innovations: Toyota's "Direct Shift-CVT" incorporates a launch gear, which is similar to a first gear in a conventional transmission, to provide a more responsive feel when starting from a stop. 

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 Toyota models do not have CVT?

Toyota models that are not equipped with traditional CVTs include the Tacoma (5-speed or 6-speed automatic, or manual), Sequoia (10-speed automatic), 86 and Supra (manual or traditional automatic), 4Runner, Land Cruiser, and Tundra. Gas-powered versions of the Corolla, Yaris, and RAV4 are also available with a manual or traditional automatic transmission instead of a CVT. 
You can watch this video to learn more about Toyota RAV4 models without a CVT: 58sGarage IQYouTube · Sep 8, 2025
Toyota models without a traditional CVT

• Tacoma: Offers a 5-speed or 6-speed automatic or a manual gearbox.
• Sequoia: Features a 10-speed automatic transmission.
• Tundra: Does not have a CVT.
• 4Runner: Available with a traditional automatic.
• Land Cruiser: Does not use a CVT.
• 86 and Supra: Available with manual or automatic transmissions.
• Corolla and Yaris: Available with manual transmissions (non-hybrid models).
• RAV4: Gas-powered versions often have a traditional automatic (e.g., 8-speed) instead of a CVT. 

This video explains the difference between hybrid and non-hybrid Toyota RAV4s regarding transmissions: 1mScotty KilmerYouTube · Jun 27, 2023
Important consideration: eCVT

• Many Toyota hybrids, like the hybrid RAV4 and Camry, use an eCVT (electronic continuously variable transmission), which is a different system from a traditional belt-driven CVT. The eCVT is a part of the hybrid powertrain and is designed for reliability and efficiency. 

This video explains how Toyota's hybrid system works and what an eCVT is: 47sGX460 OFF-ROADYouTube · Feb 23, 2022