Which cars have torque converter automatic?
In today’s market, most traditional automatic transmissions in gasoline-powered cars use a torque converter. If a car uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a dual-clutch transmission (DCT), it typically does not rely on a torque converter. For buyers seeking the smooth, familiar feel of a torque-converter automatic, look for models advertised with conventional automatic transmissions (often denoted as AT or with 6, 8, 9, or 10 speeds).
What is a torque-converter automatic?
A torque converter automatic uses a hydraulic fluid–coupled connection between the engine and the transmission. This allows the engine to idle while the car moves and provides torque multiplication at low speeds, which contributes to smooth launches and a familiar “automatic” driving experience. Modern torque-converter automatics come in many gears—six, eight, nine, or even ten speeds—while retaining the traditional hydraulic torque converter. By contrast, CVTs use a belt-and-pulley system, and DCTs use paired clutches without a conventional torque converter.
Key characteristics of torque-converter automatics
These transmissions are typically labeled as traditional automatics (AT) in specifications and feature multiple fixed gear ratios. They are different from CVTs (which list as CVT in specs) and from dual-clutch units (DCT). When shopping, you’ll often see 6-, 8-, 9-, or 10-speed ATs paired with gasoline engines, hybrids that still rely on a conventional automatic, or luxury-brand automatics that use a torque converter in their base configurations.
How to identify torque-converter automatics in a car
To determine whether a car uses a torque-converter automatic, start with the transmission specification and the drivetrain terminology used by the manufacturer or reputable reviews. The following approach helps you distinguish torque-converter automatics from other types:
Before listing, note that the following indicators describe how most buyers can verify the transmission type without taking the car apart.
- Check the official specifications page or owner's manual for the term “automatic transmission” (AT) with a specific number of gears (for example, 6AT, 8AT, 9AT, 10AT). This usually indicates a torque-converter design.
- Look for the absence of “CVT” or “DCT” in the transmission section. If CVT or DCT is listed, the car does not use a conventional torque-converter automatic.
- Read third-party reviews (Car and Driver, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book) where reviewers usually note the type of transmission. This is especially useful for hybrids and luxury variants that may have different configurations.
- Check drivetrain options for hybrids. Many hybrids use an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT) rather than a torque-converter AT, even when the rest of the lineup uses a conventional AT.
Concluding note: If you want a traditional, torque-converter experience, prioritize models whose official specs specify a traditional automatic (AT) with multiple fixed gears and avoid those labeled CVT or DCT.
Representative models and brands that typically use torque-converter automatics
Below is a representative, non-exhaustive list of mainstream models and vehicles where the gasoline-powered variants commonly use conventional torque-converter automatics. Note that hybrid or plug-in variants may differ and use e-CVTs or other transmissions.
- Toyota Camry — 8-speed automatic (AT)
- Honda Accord — 10-speed automatic (AT)
- Ford F-150 — 10-speed automatic (AT)
- Chevrolet Silverado 1500 — 8-speed and/or 10-speed automatic (AT) depending on configuration
- Toyota RAV4 — 8-speed automatic (AT) in non-hybrid trims
- Hyundai Palisade — 8-speed automatic (AT)
- Kia Telluride — 8-speed automatic (AT)
- Volkswagen Atlas — 8-speed automatic (AT)
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class — 9-speed automatic (9G-Tronic, AT)
- BMW 3 Series — 8-speed automatic (AT) in many trims
- Lexus RX — 8-speed automatic (AT) in non-hybrid variants
Important caveat: some brands offer hybrid or plug-in versions of these models that use an e-CVT or other non-torque-converter configurations. Always verify the specific drivetrain for the exact model year and trim you’re considering.
Important notes about hybrids and electric vehicles
Many modern hybrids employ an electronic CVT (e-CVT) or a hybrid-specific planetary gearset that does not rely on a conventional torque converter. Fully electric vehicles (EVs) do not use a traditional automatic transmission with a torque converter at all; they have single-speed or multi-speed transmissions that are electric-motor-driven rather than engine-driven torque conversion. If you prioritize a torque-converter experience, focus on non-hybrid gasoline models and their conventional AT configurations.
Summary
For drivers who prefer the classic feel of a torque-converter automatic, the vast majority of traditional gasoline-powered cars sold today fit the bill. Look for models advertised with conventional automatic transmissions (AT) and multiple gears, and be wary of models labeled CVT or DCT, which typically do not use a torque converter. If in doubt, check the official vehicle specifications or consult a dealer or reviewer to confirm the transmission type for the exact trim and year you’re considering. Hybrids and EVs often diverge from this pattern, using e-CVTs or single/multi-speed electric drivetrains instead.
