What year did Accord go to CVT?
The first Accord models to use a true CVT were the 2018 non-hybrid sedans, which paired the 1.5-liter turbo engine with Honda’s CVT. Hybrid Accords used an electronic CVT (e-CVT) earlier, starting with the 2014 redesign. As of 2025, the Accord’s 1.5L turbo models employ a CVT, the 2.0L turbo uses a 10-speed automatic, and the hybrid uses e-CVT.
This article details when the switch happened, how it varied by powertrain, and what that means for buyers today.
Timeline of CVT adoption in the Accord
Below is a concise timeline showing when Honda introduced CVT technology in the Accord and how it has evolved across generations and powertrains.
- 2014: Honda introduces the Accord Hybrid with a two-motor hybrid system and an e-CVT, a CVT-like arrangement that manages power split between the engine and electric motors.
- 2018 model year: The non-hybrid Accord lineup adopts a CVT paired with the 1.5L turbo engine; this marks the mainstream departure from the older 6-speed automatic in base trims. The 2.0L turbo continues to use a 10-speed automatic.
- 2023–2025: The current generation sustains the 1.5L turbo with CVT, the 2.0L turbo with a 10-speed automatic, and the hybrid with its e-CVT setup.
In short, the major turning point for non-hybrid Accords was 2018, with hybrids already on e-CVT since 2014; today the 1.5L turbo Accord uses CVT, while the 2.0L turbo uses a 10-speed automatic and the hybrid uses e-CVT.
Current transmission options in the Accord lineup (as of 2025)
For buyers evaluating current choices, here is a straightforward breakdown of which transmissions pair with each engine and trim in the latest Accord lineup.
- 1.5L turbo (CVT): Standard on most trims, paired with Honda’s CVT.
- 2.0L turbo (10-speed automatic): Available on higher trims or sport-oriented models.
- Hybrid (e-CVT): Hybrid variants use Honda’s electronic CVT system.
Note: The CVT tends to emphasize fuel efficiency in the 1.5L turbo configuration, while the 2.0L turbo emphasizes performance with a traditional automatic gearbox. The hybrid relies on the e-CVT to manage power from both engines and electric motors.
Summary
The Honda Accord began using a conventional CVT in the 2018 model year for its non-hybrid lineup, replacing the previous 6-speed automatic in base configurations. Hybrid models adopted an e-CVT earlier, starting with the 2014 redesign. As of 2025, the Accord’s 1.5L turbo models continue to use a CVT, the 2.0L turbo models use a 10-speed automatic, and the Hybrid models employ e-CVT.
