Which Honda Civics do not have CVT?
The short answer: The only Honda Civics that do not use a CVT are the Civic Si and the Civic Type R, and both are offered exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission.
In the current Honda Civic lineup, most trims rely on a CVT (or an e-CVT for hybrids) for automatic operation, while only the two high-performance models eschew the continuously variable setup in favor of a traditional manual gearbox. This article breaks down which Civics use which transmissions and what to expect when shopping for a Civic today.
Current transmission breakdown by Civic trim
To help readers quickly identify which models avoid CVT, here is a concise list of the current US-spec lineup. The list highlights the manual-only models versus those that use CVT or e-CVT.
- Civic Si — 6-speed manual
- Civic Type R — 6-speed manual
Conclusion: Among the current Honda Civic lineup, only the Si and Type R do not use CVT; all other Civics, including the non-Si sporty trims and the hybrid, employ some form of CVT or e-CVT.
What about other Civics in other markets or older generations?
In markets outside the United States or in older generations, transmission offerings can differ. Historically, some Civic variants in earlier generations did offer manual transmissions across more trims, but in the latest US lineup (as of model years 2022–2025), the Si and Type R are the manual-only Civics.
Why this matters for buyers
The manual-only status of the Si and Type R is part of Honda’s performance-oriented strategy, prioritizing a traditional driving experience for enthusiasts. For most buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency and convenience, the CVT-equipped trims provide smoother acceleration and better efficiency, with hybrid models pairing CVT/e-CVT with electric motors for improved fuel economy.
Summary
Bottom line: If you want a Honda Civic without a CVT in the current lineup, your two options are the Civic Si and the Civic Type R, both of which use a 6-speed manual transmission. All other Civics in the lineup use CVT (or e-CVT for hybrids). Always verify the exact transmission for the model year and market you’re considering, as specs can change with new releases.
What year do Hondas not have CVT?
It was the only option of the transmission. For the 2012 2014 prefaceel lift uh models.
Are all Honda transmissions CVT?
No, not all Hondas have CVTs, but many models do, particularly those with smaller engines like the Civic, Accord, and CR-V. Some larger models like the Pilot, Passport, and Ridgeline use traditional automatic transmissions, and certain performance models are only available with a manual transmission.
Honda models with CVTs
- Honda Civic
- Honda Accord
- Honda CR-V
- Honda HR-V
- Honda Insight
- Honda Clarity Plug-in Hybrid
Honda models with traditional transmissions
Honda Pilot, Honda Passport, Honda Ridgeline, and Honda Odyssey.
Models available with manual or automatic
- Some performance models, like the Civic Type R, are only available with a manual transmission.
Do Honda Civics have CVT issues?
Some Honda owners with CVTs have experienced issues not limited to one generation, like fluid leaks and overheating, but most drivers are able to fix, prevent, or even ignore minor issues. Honda's CVTs come with a 'limp home' mode that helps prevent further damage, but being proactive is always the best policy.
What Honda Civic does not have CVT?
Honda: The Civic Type R, Honda Fit (with the manual option), Honda Passport, Pilot, Ridgeline and the Odyssey are not equipped with CVTs.
