What transmission does a Camry have?

Gasoline Camrys today primarily use an eight-speed automatic transmission, while Camry Hybrids rely on an electronic CVT. There is no manual gearbox offered on current Camry models.

Gasoline Camry transmissions

For the non-hybrid Camry models, Toyota standardizes on a modern eight-speed automatic transmission. This keeps shift feel smooth while delivering efficient performance across the lineup.

• 2.5L four-cylinder Camry (the most common engine): Direct Shift-8AT eight-speed automatic, with optional AWD (all-wheel drive).


• 3.5L V6 Camry (on certain trims): Direct Shift-8AT eight-speed automatic; historically paired with V6 on higher-end trims; availability varies by model year and market, with AWD also available on some trims.


• Note: There is no manual transmission option on contemporary Camry models; all trims use some form of automatic.

In practice, whether you choose the base four-cylinder or a V6, the gasoline Camry uses the same eight-speed automatic configuration, with driving feel depending on tuning and acceleration characteristics of each engine.

Hybrid Camry transmissions

The Camry Hybrid does not use a traditional automatic or manual gearbox. Instead, it uses Toyota's eCVT (electronically controlled continuously variable transmission) to manage the power split between the gasoline engine and electric motor for optimal efficiency.

• Hybrid Camry transmission: eCVT with a planetary gearset and electric motor integration; designed to optimize fuel economy and smooth power delivery.


• All Camry Hybrids use this same eCVT system, including all-wheel drive variants, which also pair with the same eCVT.

The result is a transmission feel that is smooth and governed by the hybrid system, rather than stepped gear ratios. Drivers often notice seamless acceleration without traditional shift detents in hybrids.

Historical notes

V6 and older models

Past Camry models offered a 3.5L V6 paired with an eight-speed automatic. While newer years have shifted to a strong 2.5L base engine as the standard, some trims and markets historically offered the V6 option; the availability can vary by year and region, and Toyota has focused more on hybrid efficiency in recent years.

In all current models, there is no manual transmission option; Toyota emphasizes automatic or CVT-based systems for the Camry.

Summary

For most Camry buyers today, the transmission choice breaks down into two main paths: gasoline models use an eight-speed automatic, while Hybrids use an eCVT. Manual transmissions are not offered, and the exact feel of the eight-speed or eCVT depends on engine choice and drivetrain configuration (FWD vs. AWD). The Camry's transmission strategy reflects a balance between responsive performance and fuel efficiency across its lineup.

Key takeaways

• Gasoline Camrys: 8-speed Direct Shift-8AT automatic (FWD or AWD).


• Camry Hybrids: eCVT; no traditional gears.


• No current Camry offers a manual transmission.

Summary end: The Toyota Camry's drive is defined by two main transmission paths—an eight-speed automatic for gasoline models and an eCVT for hybrids—along with AWD options on select trims where applicable.

Does Camry have CVT transmission?

No, a gasoline-powered Camry does not have a CVT transmission; it uses a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission. However, the Camry Hybrid uses an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT), which is a different type of transmission that is integrated with the hybrid system. 
Gasoline-powered Camry

• Transmission type: 8-speed automatic transmission.
• Performance: This transmission is designed for a more direct and sporty feel, which complements the gas engine. 

Camry Hybrid

• Transmission type: eCVT (electronic continuously variable transmission).
• Performance: The eCVT is a core part of the hybrid system, designed for smooth acceleration and optimal fuel efficiency. 

Which is better CVT or eCVT?

eCVT is generally considered better than a traditional CVT due to its higher reliability and efficiency, as it uses a planetary gearset and electric motors instead of the belt-and-pulley system of a standard CVT. eCVTs are found in hybrid vehicles, while traditional CVTs are common in gas-only cars. 
This video explains the differences between eCVT and CVT: 57sI’m here to help you!YouTube · Apr 23, 2025
eCVT (Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission)

• How it works: Uses a planetary gearset and two electric motors to blend power from a gasoline engine and electric motors. It doesn't have a physical belt and pulleys. 
• Pros:
  • Higher reliability: The mechanical design is simpler and more durable, with failures being very rare and often lasting the life of the vehicle. 
  • More efficient: Optimized for fuel efficiency in hybrid vehicles by intelligently managing power from the engine and electric motors. 
  • Smooth and quiet: Provides a seamless driving experience without the "rubber band" feeling sometimes associated with traditional CVTs. 
• Cons:
  • Limited to hybrid vehicles: This type of transmission is specific to hybrid systems. 
  • May require more cooling: Some systems may need additional cooling components. 

CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)

• How it works: Uses a belt (or chain) running between two pulleys to create an infinite number of gear ratios. 
• Pros:
  • Good fuel efficiency: Keeps the engine in its ideal power band for better gas mileage compared to traditional automatics. 
  • Seamless acceleration: Provides smooth acceleration without noticeable shifts. 
• Cons:
  • Reliability concerns: Older or certain designs have been known to have reliability issues and may fail prematurely, leading to costly repairs. 
  • Limited torque handling: Less suitable for high-torque applications like towing heavy loads. 

Which is better?
For a driver prioritizing reliability and efficiency, the eCVT is the better choice. It is a more robust design that is a key component of why many hybrid vehicles have become so reliable. 
This video explains why eCVTs are very reliable: 54sCar Help CornerYouTube · Oct 19, 2025
For a driver who needs a transmission for a gas-only vehicle, a modern CVT can be a good option for its fuel efficiency, though it's important to research specific models, as some are more reliable than others.

What type of transmission is in a Camry?

Continuously Variable Transmission
Yes, the Toyota Camry does come with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) in many of its models. This means you'll get a smooth and efficient driving experience!

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.