When it comes to continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), reliability is often a top concern for drivers. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions, CVTs use a belt-and-pulley system to provide smooth and efficient power delivery, enhancing fuel economy and driving comfort.
While some CVTs have earned a reputation for being less durable, many automakers have refined their designs to improve longevity and performance.
Whether you’re looking for a fuel-efficient commuter, a sporty sedan, or a practical family car, several models stand out for their dependable CVT technology. Here’s a look at 10 cars with the most reliable CVT transmissions in 2025.
1. 2025 Kia K4
The 2025 Kia K4 is a stylish and premium compact sedan that replaces the Kia Forte in Kia’s lineup. With a refreshed design, it features a sleek, modern look highlighted by vertically oriented LED headlights and taillights, as well as Kia’s signature Tiger Nose grille.
The K4 is larger than its predecessor, providing more interior space and comfort for passengers. It comes in five trim levels, with the EX being the most popular, starting at $25,165.
Powered by a 2.0L I4 engine with Front-Wheel Drive, it delivers an estimated 29 MPG in the city and 39 MPG on the highway, making it an efficient option for daily driving.
Inside, the K4 boasts a premium cabin with a nearly 30-inch digital display that integrates the driver’s display, infotainment system, and climate controls. The updated interior not only looks sophisticated but also enhances comfort with increased legroom and headroom.
Despite its fastback-like appearance, the K4 retains a conventional trunk, though a hatchback version is expected to arrive by the end of 2025. Extensive safety features further add to its appeal, ensuring a secure and enjoyable driving experience.
While the K4 impresses with its modern styling, premium interior, and strong safety features, there are some considerations. It does not offer a manual transmission, which may disappoint driving enthusiasts, and its conventional trunk may not be as practical as a hatchback for some buyers.
However, with a combined fuel efficiency of 33-34 MPG and engaging driving dynamics, the K4 remains a competitive choice in the compact sedan segment, rivaling models like the Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, and Toyota Corolla.
2. 2025 Chevrolet Malibu
The 2025 Chevrolet Malibu remains a strong value proposition for family sedan buyers, offering a spacious interior, large trunk, and a smooth, efficient engine. With a lower starting price than many of its midsize sedan rivals, including the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Nissan Altima, the Malibu provides an affordable yet comfortable ride.
It comes in four trim levels, with the RS trim being the most popular, starting at $27,995. Powered by a 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine with Front-Wheel Drive, the Malibu delivers an estimated 28 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway, balancing performance and efficiency.
Inside, the Malibu offers a roomy cabin with supportive front seats and ample rear-seat legroom, making it a great choice for families or long road trips. The 8-inch touchscreen is user-friendly and integrates wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhancing the in-car technology experience.
Additionally, standard features like a 60/40-split folding rear seat and keyless entry add to its practicality. While the Malibu’s design is not as modern as some of its competitors, it still provides a comfortable and functional interior that prioritizes ease of use.
However, the Malibu has some drawbacks, including the lack of a hybrid powertrain option, which is now common among its rivals. Additionally, its design is starting to show its age compared to newer models in the segment.
Despite these considerations, the Malibu continues to appeal to buyers looking for an affordable, spacious, and fuel-efficient sedan, making it a solid choice in the midsize car market.
3. 2025 Subaru Impreza
The 2025 Subaru Impreza is a practical and well-rounded compact car, offering standard all-wheel drive, top-tier safety ratings, and affordability compared to many of its rivals. Available in three trim levels, the Impreza starts at $24,780, with the most popular AWD variant featuring a 2.0L H4 engine.
Fuel economy is estimated at 27 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway, making it a reasonable, though not outstanding, choice for efficiency. With generous cargo space and user-friendly controls, the Impreza is designed for drivers who prioritize functionality over flashiness.
A key advantage of the Impreza is its safety performance. It has received a perfect five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Inside, the cabin is straightforward and durable, with an intuitive layout that avoids unnecessary complexity. While it may not be the most stylish or exciting interior, it provides reliability and ease of use, which many drivers appreciate.
Compared to other compact cars, the Impreza offers essential features at a lower cost, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
However, the Impreza is not without its downsides. Its modest engine delivers uninspiring acceleration, making it less engaging to drive than competitors like the Honda Civic or Hyundai Elantra. Fuel economy is also just average, and Subaru does not offer a hybrid option, unlike some rivals.
While the hatchback design is practical, buyers looking for a slightly more rugged and stylish alternative might prefer the Subaru Crosstrek, which offers similar features with added versatility. Ultimately, for those who value all-weather capability, safety, and practicality, the Impreza remains a dependable choice.
4. 2025 Toyota Prius
The 2025 Toyota Prius is a fuel-efficient hybrid sedan offering impressive mileage between 49 and 57 MPG. Seating up to five passengers, it comes in four trim levels, with the popular LE FWD starting at $29,485.
Equipped with a 2.0L I4 hybrid engine and Front-Wheel Drive, the Prius delivers 57 MPG in the city and 56 MPG on the highway. With a sleek design, advanced hybrid technology, and a comfortable interior, it remains a top choice for eco-conscious drivers looking for reliability and efficiency.
5. 2025 Toyota Prius Plug‑In Hybrid
The 2025 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid is a fuel-efficient 5-seater with an electric range of 39-44 miles and a combined mileage of 48-52 MPG. Available in three trim levels, the popular XSE model starts at $37,760 and features a 2.0L I4 plug-in hybrid engine with Front-Wheel Drive.
Offering a balance of efficiency and electric driving capability, the Prius Plug-In Hybrid is a great choice for those looking to reduce fuel consumption while maintaining practicality and comfort.
6. 2025 Honda Accord
The 2025 Honda Accord remains one of the top choices in the midsize sedan segment, offering a balance of efficiency, comfort, and safety. Available in six trim levels, the popular SE model starts at $31,710 and comes with a turbocharged 1.5L I4 engine and Front-Wheel Drive.
The Accord delivers strong fuel efficiency, with the standard engine achieving up to 37 MPG on the highway, while the hybrid model offers an impressive combined mileage of up to 48 MPG. With its spacious cabin and generous cargo capacity, the Accord provides practicality for families and commuters alike.
Honda offers the Accord in two powertrain options: a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder for everyday driving and a hybrid version that maximizes fuel efficiency. Both models provide a smooth and refined driving experience, with a quiet ride and well-designed interior.
The Accord also boasts top safety scores and comes equipped with an extensive suite of standard driver-assistance features, reinforcing its reputation as a safe and reliable choice. However, while the cabin is spacious, rear-seat headroom could be improved, and the Accord lacks an all-wheel-drive option, which some competitors offer.
Despite its strengths, the Accord faces strong competition in the midsize sedan market. The Toyota Camry now offers an all-hybrid lineup with all-wheel-drive availability, making it an appealing alternative.
The Kia K5 and Hyundai Sonata provide more powerful engine options, while the Nissan Altima stands out for its affordability and exceptionally comfortable seating. Nonetheless, with its fuel efficiency, refined design, and strong safety credentials, the 2025 Honda Accord continues to be a leading contender in its class.
7. 2024 Toyota Prius Prime
The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime stands out as a top contender in the plug-in hybrid segment, thanks to its exceptional fuel efficiency, long all-electric driving range, and modern styling. Available in three trim levels, the popular XSE model starts at $37,360 and features a 2.0L I4 plug-in hybrid engine with Front-Wheel Drive.
Offering up to 52 MPG in hybrid mode and an impressive 39-44 miles of all-electric range, the Prius Prime surpasses many rivals in efficiency. Its recent redesign introduces a sleek, sporty exterior and a refreshed cabin, making it more visually appealing and comfortable than ever.
Toyota has significantly improved the Prius Prime’s performance, addressing past criticisms of sluggish acceleration. With 220 horsepower, it is one of the most powerful PHEVs in its class, providing quicker acceleration than competitors like the Kia Niro PHEV and Mini Countryman Cooper SE PHEV.
Additionally, its electric range outperforms many rivals, allowing for extended emission-free driving. The updated interior offers improved ergonomics and a driver-friendly layout, enhancing overall usability. These upgrades make the Prius Prime a more compelling choice for those seeking both efficiency and a fun-to-drive experience.
However, the Prius Prime does have some drawbacks. The rear seats are on the tighter side, making it less ideal for passengers who need extra space. Additionally, its cargo capacity falls short compared to some competitors, which may be a consideration for those needing more storage flexibility.
Furthermore, Toyota does not offer an all-wheel-drive option, unlike some alternatives in the segment. Despite these limitations, the Prius Prime’s blend of efficiency, power, and modern styling makes it a standout choice in the PHEV market.
8. 2025 Toyota Crown
The 2025 Toyota Crown is a unique hybrid sedan that offers a high seating position and a blend of comfort, efficiency, and performance. Available in four trim levels, the Crown provides a luxurious experience, particularly in upper trims like the Limited, which starts at $47,085.
It comes standard with all-wheel drive and a hybrid 2.5L I4 engine, delivering an estimated 42 MPG in the city and 41 MPG on the highway. With a spacious interior and high-tech features like a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and configurable driver display, the Crown is a compelling option for those who prefer a traditional sedan with an SUV-like presence.
Toyota offers two hybrid powertrains for the Crown: a standard system with 236 horsepower and the more powerful Hybrid Max system on the Platinum trim, producing 340 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. The Platinum trim provides strong acceleration but sacrifices some fuel efficiency compared to lower trims.
The all-wheel-drive capability enhances stability in varying weather conditions, making the Crown a solid choice for drivers in colder climates. Additionally, its upscale interior materials and advanced technology features contribute to a near-luxury driving experience.
Despite its many strengths, the Crown has some drawbacks. Its trunk space is smaller than expected for a vehicle of its size, which may be a downside for those needing extra cargo capacity. The Platinum trim’s fuel economy is also lower than other Crown models, making it less efficient than some hybrid competitors.
While the Crown doesn’t have many direct rivals, alternatives like the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, Honda Accord Hybrid, or hybrid SUVs such as the Kia Sportage and Honda CR-V offer comparable fuel efficiency with different body styles.
However, for those seeking a blend of sedan refinement, hybrid efficiency, and an elevated driving position, the 2025 Toyota Crown remains a distinctive and appealing choice.
9. 2025 Acura Integra
The 2025 Acura Integra is a sporty and stylish luxury hatchback that offers a compelling mix of performance, practicality, and value. Positioned below the Acura TLX in the brand’s lineup, the Integra is a well-equipped five-seater available in four trim levels.
The most popular A-Spec Technology Package CVT trim starts at $39,195 and is powered by a 1.5L turbocharged I4 engine with front-wheel drive, delivering an estimated 29 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway.
With a lower base price than German competitors like the Audi A3 and BMW 228i GranCoupe, the Integra stands out with the largest backseat and cargo space in its class.
Built on the same platform as the Honda Civic Si, the Integra shares its turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, producing 200 horsepower for a fun and engaging driving experience. While it lacks the all-wheel drive and higher power outputs of some rivals, it makes up for it with precise handling and a smooth ride.
A six-speed manual transmission is available, making the Integra the only vehicle in its segment to offer one. Those seeking more performance can opt for the high-powered Integra Type S, which packs a 320-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter engine and a manual transmission, providing a thrilling driving experience similar to the Honda Civic Type R but with a more refined interior and ride quality.
Despite its many strengths, the Integra does have some drawbacks. It is priced higher than comparable Honda Civic models, and while it offers strong performance, some German rivals provide more horsepower and quicker acceleration.
Additionally, Acura does not offer the Integra with all-wheel drive or a hybrid powertrain, which may be a consideration for buyers seeking those features.
However, for those looking for a premium, feature-rich hatchback with a luxury badge, spacious interior, and engaging driving dynamics, the 2025 Acura Integra remains an excellent choice.
10. 2025 Subaru WRX
The 2025 Subaru WRX remains a standout choice among high-performance compact sedans, offering an engaging driving experience and standard all-wheel drive. While its fuel economy is subpar compared to rivals, the WRX still delivers a thrilling ride with a 271-horsepower turbocharged 2.4L H4 engine.
The Premium CVT trim, one of the most popular configurations, starts at $38,270 and achieves an estimated 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. Although it lacks the sheer power of competitors like the Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf R, the WRX makes up for it with precise handling and a smooth ride.
For 2025, Subaru introduces the new WRX tS trim, which brings performance-oriented upgrades without an increase in horsepower. “Tuned by STI,” the tS trim includes adaptive suspension dampers, Brembo brakes, Recaro sport seats, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, enhancing both driving dynamics and interior refinement.
While some enthusiasts may be disappointed that Subaru has not introduced a higher-output STI model, the tS still offers an exciting and well-balanced driving experience. The WRX continues to be a strong option for those seeking a capable, all-weather performance car with everyday usability.
Despite its strong attributes, the WRX has some downsides, including limited cargo space compared to hot hatches and slower acceleration than class leaders. Additionally, its fuel efficiency lags behind competitors like the Toyota GR Corolla and Hyundai Elantra N.
However, for drivers looking for a well-rounded performance sedan with standard all-wheel drive and an enjoyable driving feel, the 2025 Subaru WRX remains a compelling choice.
From compact sedans to sporty performance models, these 10 cars demonstrate that modern CVT technology has come a long way in terms of reliability and drivability.
Whether it’s the fuel-efficient Toyota Prius, the well-rounded Honda Accord, or the high-performance Subaru WRX, each of these vehicles offers a combination of smooth shifting, efficiency, and dependability.
While CVTs may not appeal to every driving enthusiast, they continue to play a crucial role in improving fuel economy and enhancing daily driving convenience. For those seeking a vehicle with a proven, reliable CVT, any of these models would make a solid choice.
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