What years did Ford use the CVT transmission?
Ford has used CVT-type transmissions primarily in its hybrid lineup, not across its conventional gasoline-powered models. The earliest well-documented example is the 2005 Escape Hybrid, and since then Ford has deployed electronically controlled CVTs (eCVTs) in several hybrid models, with no CVT in most of Ford’s standard non-hybrid vehicles.
In more detail, Ford’s CVT applications are tied to its hybrid powertrains. The use of eCVTs has varied by model and region, and the exact years differ across markets. The following examples illustrate representative Ford hybrids that employed an eCVT and the approximate timeframes those configurations were offered.
- Escape Hybrid: introduced in 2005 and continued through the early to mid-2010s (roughly 2005–2012 in the U.S. market).
- Fusion Hybrid: launched in 2009 and continued through the end of the Fusion’s production run (2009–2020 in the U.S.).
- C-Max Hybrid: launched in 2013 and offered through the late 2010s (approximately 2013–2018/2019).
- Lincoln MKZ Hybrid: introduced around 2010 and carried through 2020 (roughly 2010–2020).
These examples show that Ford’s use of CVT technology has been relegated to its hybrid lineup in the modern era, with the years tied to hybrid model introductions and continuations rather than to a broad, across-the-board adoption in all models. When evaluating a used Ford, it’s important to confirm the drivetrain details for the specific year and model in question, as availability can vary by market and trim.
Summary
Ford has used CVTs, specifically eCVTs, only within its hybrid vehicles. The main examples include the Escape Hybrid (mid-2000s to early 2010s), Fusion Hybrid (2009–2020), C-Max Hybrid (2013–2018/2019), and Lincoln MKZ Hybrid (2010–2020). There have been no widespread CVT applications in Ford’s conventional (non-hybrid) gas-powered lineup.
