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Which Toyota has CVT transmission?

Many Toyota models use CVT transmissions, with hybrids relying on an electronic CVT (e-CVT) for efficiency. A few gasoline models in various markets also employ a traditional CVT (often branded as Direct Shift CVT by Toyota) to optimize fuel economy. Here is a current, region-aware overview of where CVTs show up in Toyota’s lineup.

Gasoline models commonly paired with CVT

In Toyota’s gasoline-only offerings, CVT technology is most prevalent in compact and subcompact vehicles. The Corolla family is the best-known example, with most markets pairing the 1.8L or 2.0L engines to a Direct Shift CVT. The Corolla Cross follows suit in markets where it is sold. Depending on regional strategy, other small Toyota models such as the C-HR and Yaris/Yaris Cross may also use CVTs.

Corolla (gasoline variants) — Direct Shift CVT

Corolla Cross — CVT

C-HR (regional variants) — CVT

Yaris/Yaris Cross (regional variants) — CVT

In short, if you’re shopping for a Toyota with a gasoline CVT, the Corolla lineup and its closely related crossovers are the primary options in many regions.

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models with e-CVT

Toyota’s hybrid powertrains rely on an electronic, continuously variable setup (e-CVT) to blend the gasoline engine with electric motor output for improved efficiency. The following current models use e-CVT as part of their hybrid systems or plug-in hybrid systems wherever offered.

Prius — e-CVT

Corolla Hybrid — e-CVT

Camry Hybrid — e-CVT

RAV4 Hybrid — e-CVT

RAV4 Prime (plug-in hybrid) — e-CVT

Highlander Hybrid — e-CVT

Grand Highlander Hybrid — e-CVT

Sienna (hybrid) — e-CVT

Avalon Hybrid — e-CVT

Venza (hybrid) — e-CVT

Across these models, the e-CVT design is chosen to maximize efficiency by smoothly coordinating power from the gas engine and electric motors, rather than shifting through fixed gears.

Summary

Summary of the CVT landscape in Toyota’s current lineup: CVTs appear prominently in gasoline-oriented small cars like the Corolla family (gasoline and Cross variants) and are widespread in Toyota’s hybrid offerings through e-CVTs, including Prius, Corolla Hybrid, Camry Hybrid, RAV4 Hybrid, Highlander/Venza/Sequoia family hybrids, and Sienna. If you’re specifically seeking a Toyota with a traditional gasoline CVT, your strongest bets are the Corolla and Corolla Cross in many regions; for hybrids, expect e-CVT across the board.

Does Toyota have issues with CVT transmission?

The most common problems with Toyota CVT transmissions include delayed acceleration, overheating, unusual noises, shuddering or jerking, and transmission slipping.

Which Toyota models do not have CVT?

Toyota models that are not equipped with traditional CVTs include the Tacoma (5-speed or 6-speed automatic, or manual), Sequoia (10-speed automatic), 86 and Supra (manual or traditional automatic), 4Runner, Land Cruiser, and Tundra. Gas-powered versions of the Corolla, Yaris, and RAV4 are also available with a manual or traditional automatic transmission instead of a CVT.
You can watch this video to learn more about Toyota RAV4 models without a CVT: 58sGarage IQYouTube · Sep 8, 2025
Toyota models without a traditional CVT

Tacoma: Offers a 5-speed or 6-speed automatic or a manual gearbox.
Sequoia: Features a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Tundra: Does not have a CVT.
4Runner: Available with a traditional automatic.
Land Cruiser: Does not use a CVT.
86 and Supra: Available with manual or automatic transmissions.
Corolla and Yaris: Available with manual transmissions (non-hybrid models).
RAV4: Gas-powered versions often have a traditional automatic (e.g., 8-speed) instead of a CVT.

This video explains the difference between hybrid and non-hybrid Toyota RAV4s regarding transmissions: 1mScotty KilmerYouTube · Jun 27, 2023
Important consideration: eCVT

Many Toyota hybrids, like the hybrid RAV4 and Camry, use an eCVT (electronic continuously variable transmission), which is a different system from a traditional belt-driven CVT. The eCVT is a part of the hybrid powertrain and is designed for reliability and efficiency.

This video explains how Toyota's hybrid system works and what an eCVT is: 47sGX460 OFF-ROADYouTube · Feb 23, 2022

Which lasts longer, CVT or automatic?

Both systems require care, but they wear in different ways. CVTs may need more frequent fluid changes and can be more costly to repair when they fail. Automatic transmissions tend to last longer and are often easier to service—though that depends on the make and model.

Which car manufacturer has the best CVT?

Toyota and honda, imo build the best cvt transmissions. Toyota especially has had a lot of time to perfect them as they started in the prius and they've now recently added a fixed take off gear which takes alot of strain off of the transmission itself and honda has something similar I believe.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.