What year did the Honda CR-V get CVT transmission?
The Honda CR-V first adopted a CVT in the 2007 model year.
Since then, Honda has used CVTs across CR-V generations, with the engine options evolving from a 2.4-liter setup in early CVT models to turbocharged power in later generations, while maintaining CVT as the standard automatic in most markets.
Timeline of CVT adoption in the CR-V
The following milestones outline when CVTs appeared or were retained across major CR-V generations.
- 2007 model year: Third-generation CR-V introduces a CVT in North America, replacing the prior 4- and 5-speed automatic transmissions (engine: 2.4L i-VTEC).
- 2012 model year onward: Fourth-generation CR-V continues to use a CVT as the standard automatic across most trims and markets (engine options include 2.4L and, in some versions, other variants).
- 2017 model year onward: Fifth-generation CR-V introduces a turbocharged 1.5L engine paired with a CVT, with the CVT remaining the standard automatic through current models.
In short, the CVT has been Honda's default automatic for the CR-V since 2007, with later generations refining the pairing between the CVT and turbocharged or larger engines to improve efficiency and performance.
Market variations
Some non-North American markets have had different engine-transmission configurations historically, but CVT has been the common automatic choice in most CR-V variants since 2007.
Why Honda chose a CVT for the CR-V
CVTs are prized for smooth acceleration and fuel efficiency, aligning with the CR-V's reputation as a practical, efficiency-focused compact SUV. The move to CVT allowed Honda to optimize engine speed across a wide range of driving conditions and improve overall economy.
Summary
The Honda CR-V first gained a continuously variable transmission with the 2007 model year, and since then CVTs have remained standard across generations, evolving alongside engine options and powertrains to support efficiency and practicality in the CR-V lineup.
