Many car enthusiasts tend to avoid vehicles that come equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). While it’s a valuable addition to many modern vehicles, some drivers still associate CVTs with fuel-efficient hybrids and basic economy sedans rather than high-performance, adrenaline-inducing machines.
However, their reputation for prioritizing efficiency doesn’t tell the whole story. Automakers are now challenging those outdated perceptions by designing CVTs that not only excel in daily driving but also enhance overall performance.
They’re adding a surprising dose of excitement to the driving experience. From powerful sports cars to upscale luxury models, CVTs are beginning to show they offer far more than just improved fuel economy.
Curious to learn more? Here are seven truly impressive vehicles that highlight the real performance potential of the often-criticized CVT. Before diving in, let’s take a closer look.
Unlike traditional automatic transmissions that rely on a fixed number of gears, a CVT utilizes a pair of cone-shaped pulleys connected by a belt.
By changing the effective diameter of these pulleys, the CVT can provide an infinite range of gear ratios. This innovative design helps the engine remain in its ideal power range, offering smooth and uninterrupted acceleration.
While early CVTs had a tendency to feel less responsive compared to conventional automatics, today’s versions are far more engaging.
Some even emulate the behavior of traditional gear shifts to deliver a more familiar driving sensation. So what’s the takeaway? It’s not just about efficiency CVTs can bring serious performance to the table as well.
Cars With Long-Lasting CVTs
When it comes to the advantages of a CVT, there are several key benefits. A CVT maximizes efficiency, providing smoother acceleration with no noticeable shifts, and it also features fewer components than a traditional automatic, which can simplify maintenance.
However, there are some drawbacks to consider. CVTs are generally perceived as less sporty because they lack defined shift points, they can produce excessive engine drone, and their long-term durability has sometimes been questioned.
Subaru WRX
First on the list is the Subaru WRX. A rally-bred legend, the WRX continues to satisfy enthusiasts seeking a sporty, performance-oriented drive.
While the traditional manual transmission is still available and undoubtedly preferred by purists the WRX also features what Subaru calls the Subaru Performance Transmission.
Believe it or not, that’s actually a CVT. But this isn’t your average CVT this one is built for serious performance.
Specifically engineered to tap into the full potential of the WRX’s 271-horsepower turbocharged engine and its renowned all-wheel-drive system, Subaru’s CVT is designed to emulate the gear changes of an eight-speed automatic.
It comes equipped with paddle shifters and multiple drive modes, including Sport+ and Sport Sharp, allowing drivers to take full control.
The adaptive shift logic also learns your driving habits and adjusts shifting patterns to suit your style. The result is a powertrain that feels unexpectedly lively and engaging, completely breaking the mold of the typical fuel-saving CVT. With the Subaru Performance Transmission, Subaru proves that a CVT can actually elevate the WRX’s thrilling driving dynamics.
The 2025 Subaru WRX is a solid choice for a sport compact car, offering an affordable price, smooth ride quality, and great driving dynamics. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient option in its class and its interior lacks some flair, it’s still an enjoyable daily driver.
The turbocharged four-cylinder engine makes driving fun, and the cabin is comfortable. However, some competitors in the segment provide more refinement, greater versatility, or are sportier and faster.
The Honda Civic Type R is slightly more expensive but provides a nearly perfect driving experience. It is more fuel-efficient than the WRX and features a more refined interior. Other well-rounded models in the segment include the Volkswagen GTI, Hyundai Elantra N, and Toyota GR Corolla.
For 2025, Subaru introduces a few changes to the WRX. The TR trim is replaced with the STI-tuned tS trim, catering to driving enthusiasts by enhancing the WRX’s rally capabilities. The base trim is also eliminated in favor of the Premium trim, and Galaxy Purple is now available as a color option for all WRX models.
In comparison, the 2024 model saw the reintroduction of the TR trim and the addition of a standard 11.6-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 2023 model had no significant changes, while the 2022 model marked the beginning of the fifth generation with a full redesign, updated styling, a new engine, and an overhauled infotainment system.
If you are considering an older WRX, it’s worth reading our reviews for the 2022, 2023, and 2024 models to help with your decision-making. You can also explore our Best New Car Deals and Best New Car Lease Deals pages to find savings and discounts on new vehicles.
When compared to the competition, the WRX holds its ground. The Honda Civic Type R, while more expensive, offers a more powerful engine (315 horsepower) and a more aggressive appearance. It is a more thrilling ride, though the WRX is a more affordable option for those on a budget.
The 2025 Subaru WRX is available in four trims: Premium, Limited, tS, and GT, with all trims featuring a 271-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive.
The Premium, Limited, and tS trims come with a standard six-speed manual transmission, while the GT trim is equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), which is also available on the Premium and Limited trims.
The base-model WRX starts at $35,750 and includes standard features such as cloth upholstery, manually adjustable heated front seats, split-folding rear seats, a 7-inch analog gauge cluster, and an 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
It also includes HD radio, satellite radio, a six-speaker sound system, four USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, an auxiliary jack, automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, and 18-inch alloy wheels with summer performance tires.
Subaru’s EyeSight suite of active safety features comes standard, which includes forward automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, driver-attention monitoring, adaptive cruise control, rear-seat alert, evasive steering assist, a rearview camera, and adaptive headlights with automatic high beams.
For those who prefer the stock manual transmission, an additional equipment package ($1,865) is available, adding a moonroof and an 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. The WRX Premium with the CVT is priced at $37,100 and includes the Harman Kardon sound system and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
The WRX Limited, starting at $40,130, adds more premium features, including the Harman Kardon sound system, voice-activated TomTom-powered navigation, and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support
. Other features include blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert, LED steering-responsive headlights, a moonroof, ultrasuede and leather-trimmed upholstery, and body-color side mirrors with integrated turn signals.
The CVT model starts at $41,680. The WRX tS, priced at $45,705, includes high-performance features such as Brembo braking systems, 19-inch wheels with performance tires, STI-tuned electronically adjustable dampers, and Recaro ultrasuede front seats with “WRX tS” stitching. This trim is exclusively available with the manual transmission.
The WRX GT, priced at $45,705, is a CVT-only model and features an ultrasuede dash panel with red stitching, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, Recaro front seats, a sport-tuned suspension, and 18-inch alloy wheels. It also comes with drive modes and settings not available on other trims.
Acura Integra
The Acura Integra joins the growing list of everyday vehicles that deliver impressive performance with a dose of fun behind the wheel. This sporty sedan offers a premium driving experience, and part of that comes from its standard CVT.
Unlike the average unit, this is a performance-tuned CVT built to complement the Integra’s turbocharged engine, delivering a sharp response and smooth power flow along with its 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft. of torque.
Although it maintains the smooth operation that CVTs are known for, this one is still focused on delivering a sporty edge.
For example, it includes stepped “gear” ratios that enable quick acceleration, helping it feel more natural and exciting for driving enthusiasts.
In addition, the WRX isn’t alone in offering race-inspired paddle shifters the Integra includes them too, giving drivers manual control for a more spirited experience.
The Integra’s CVT pairs perfectly with Acura’s Integrated Dynamics System, which allows you to adjust throttle response, steering weight, and even simulated engine noise.
This customization means you can fine-tune the driving dynamics to suit your preferences, turning the Integra into a sportier, more personalized ride.
Toyota GR Yaris RS
Though it’s not offered in North America, the Toyota GR Yaris RS presents a unique look at how CVTs can power sporty vehicles.It features a 1.5-liter inline three-cylinder Dynamic Force engine.
While its output may seem modest compared to some of the other models on this list, the GR Yaris RS compensates with its exceptionally light curb weight of just 2,491 lbs (1,130 kg).
That translates into sharp handling and an exhilarating driving experience.The RS features a front-wheel-drive layout and, notably, a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
This choice might be a surprise to some driving purists, but Toyota has engineered this CVT to feel far more engaging than expected.
The Direct Shift CVT includes 10-speed Sequential Shiftmatic paddle shifting to mimic manual gear changes, along with a dedicated launch gear that provides both brisk acceleration and smooth daily driving.
It might not be the most powerful car in the GR lineup, but the GR Yaris RS still delivers a fun and dynamic ride.
Thanks to its combination of lightweight construction, a responsive engine, and a CVT tuned for excitement, this model makes for a compelling option for drivers who appreciate a different approach to performance.
The Toyota GR Yaris is technically based on the standard Toyota Yaris hybrid hatchback, but this comparison is more akin to saying the Luxor Casino in Las Vegas is based on the Great Pyramid of Giza. While the two share a similar external look, the GR Yaris is vastly different underneath the surface.
Rather than a hotel and casino, what you find under the skin of the GR Yaris is a rally-inspired performance car, meticulously reworked by Toyota’s Gazoo Racing (GR) motorsport division. The car benefits from performance upgrades and engineering developed through Toyota’s participation in the World Rally Championship, making it a true hot hatch.
The GR Yaris impressed so much that we named it our favorite hot hatchback in 2021. When the 2024 update arrived, it elevated the car even further, earning a Highly Commended recognition in the Pleasure of Driving category at the 2025 Carwow Car of the Year Awards.
The 2024 facelift introduced some subtle styling updates, a completely redesigned interior, more power and torque, and the addition of a new automatic gearbox alongside the previously exclusive six-speed manual option. These changes broaden the GR Yaris’ appeal considerably.
While the exterior of the GR Yaris may seem familiar, keen-eyed observers will notice some subtle changes. The front now features a revised bumper and a new metal grille, while the back has received a new rear diffuser, spoiler, and updated rear lights.
Inside, the updates are more extensive. Previously, the cabin was essentially carried over from the standard Yaris, but now it boasts a flat, blocky dashboard that wraps around the driver, evoking a retro feel similar to an old arcade cabinet. Inspired by Toyota’s rally cars, the design places all controls within easy reach for drivers who are strapped in tight, ready for track driving.
In response to customer feedback, Toyota made improvements to the driver’s seat. It can now be set lower, addressing one of the biggest criticisms of the previous model, where drivers felt they were sitting on the car instead of in it. Additionally, Toyota has lowered the central infotainment screen and raised the rearview mirror, providing better visibility.
For those taking the GR Yaris to the track, they will appreciate the increased power for 2024. The 1.6-litre three-cylinder engine now produces 280hp, an increase from the previous 261hp. Torque has also been raised from 360Nm to 390Nm. While the difference may not be enormous, it still contributes to outstanding performance, especially with the car’s four-wheel-drive system, which sets it apart from other performance cars of its size.
Mat Watson, a leading expert reviewer, notes that Toyota has successfully addressed the few complaints about the previous version, making the already excellent GR Yaris even better.
The GR Yaris continues to offer the six-speed manual gearbox, which remains the top choice for driving enthusiasts who enjoy a more connected driving experience. However, the new eight-speed automatic option is equally impressive. It improves the car’s everyday usability, making it easier to drive in traffic.
Additionally, the automatic gearbox should help improve lap times thanks to quicker gear shifts, more ratios that keep the engine within its power band, and the ability to focus solely on performance without the distraction of shifting.
Despite its high performance, the GR Yaris still demands some compromise as a daily driver, largely due to its compact size. The boot is quite small – even smaller than the regular Yaris – and the rear seats are cramped, with limited headroom and difficult access due to the three-door design. When compared to rivals like the Hyundai i20 N, it’s far less practical for everyday tasks like shopping or school runs.
Lexus LC 500h
Continuing the theme of standout performance, the Lexus LC 500h is a stunning grand touring coupe that impresses far beyond its striking appearance.
Underneath its elegant exterior lies an advanced and distinctive powertrain. A 3.5-liter V6 engine works in tandem with an electric motor to generate a combined 354 horsepower.
But what truly sets this model apart is its groundbreaking transmission system: the Lexus Multistage Hybrid Drive.
This innovative setup acts as a bridge between a traditional CVT and a conventional automatic transmission.
At the core of the system is a belt-and-pulley mechanism, typical of a CVT, which allows for smooth, continuously variable power delivery.
The unique twist is a four-speed automatic gearbox placed after the CVT component.
This clever combination enables the LC 500h to enjoy the efficiency benefits of a CVT while simulating the crisp, responsive shifts of a 10-speed automatic transmission.
When you push the LC 500h a bit harder, the simulated stepped gears kick in, creating a surprisingly dynamic and exhilarating driving experience.
Paddle shifters further increase driver engagement by placing full control of the transmission’s behavior right at your fingertips.
Infiniti QX55
The Infiniti QX55 brings sleek, coupe-inspired styling to the crossover segment, but its appeal goes well beyond its aesthetic charm.
This stylish SUV delivers an unexpected level of performance, thanks in large part to its advanced VC-Turbo engine.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces an impressive 268 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.
This power is managed by Infiniti’s sophisticated CVT system, the Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission.
It employs “shift by wire” technology to improve responsiveness, especially in manual mode. For those looking for a more athletic drive, paddle shifters are included to add a sportier, more interactive experience behind the wheel.
During light acceleration or low-speed cruising, the CVT operates like a traditional unit, offering smooth and uninterrupted power delivery that enhances fuel efficiency.
When greater performance is called for, the system seamlessly mimics stepped gear changes, creating a more engaging and familiar driving feel during spirited moments on the road.
A coupe crossover typically sacrifices practicality for style and performance, often offering less trunk space and rear headroom compared to its more traditional counterpart. The Infiniti QX55, a fastback compact crossover derived from the QX50, defies expectations by being more practical and spacious than you might imagine.
With premium features and a challenge to rivals like the BMW X4, Audi Q5 Sportback, and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class Coupe, it establishes itself as a serious contender in the segment.
However, its base price of $50,000—almost $10,000 more than the base QX50—poses a challenge. The QX55 compensates for this higher cost with standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and a well-equipped Luxe base trim. Yet, it still relies on the same 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine as the QX50, delivering 268 horsepower.
Although the QX55 is stylish, well-equipped, and offers a near-premium cabin, these qualities don’t fully outweigh its shortcomings, particularly when facing strong competition from other luxury crossovers.
For 2024, the QX55 receives a few minor updates, with its core specifications remaining the same. On the exterior, a new chromed 20-inch wheel design is now available. However, some color options have been dropped: Slate Gray is no longer available on the Luxe and Essential trims, while Mineral Black is no longer offered on the Sensory trim.
Inside, the leather-trimmed shifter knob has been replaced with a squared-off version from the QX60, featuring the shift pattern on top. The center console now includes a standard wireless charging pad next to the two cupholders, though the sliding lid that used to cover this area has been removed.
Additionally, two new safety features are now standard on all trims: a rear-door alert and side mirrors that automatically tilt down when Reverse is selected. The 2024 Infiniti QX55 will be available in the United States starting at a base price of $50,000.
For the 2024 model year, the Infiniti QX55 Luxe now starts at $50,000, which is $850 more than before. The Essential and Sensory trims have seen a $700 price increase, bringing their prices to $54,950 and $58,500, respectively. These prices are the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) and do not include the $1,195 destination fee. The mid-range Essential trim remains the best value in the lineup.
While the Luxe trim is well-equipped with leather upholstery, a sunroof, and 20-inch alloy wheels, the Essential trim adds significant features, including ventilated front seats, navigation, traffic-sign recognition, a premium 16-speaker Bose audio system, and a surround-view monitor. For less than $5,000 more than the Luxe, the Essential trim offers the best value for those looking for additional luxury features.
Cars With Failure-Prone Ones
As a key component of a vehicle’s drivetrain, the transmission plays a vital role in ensuring the car operates correctly. Its primary function is to transfer power from the engine to the driving wheels using a series of gears.
Over time, this essential system has evolved significantly from the early days of basic manual gearboxes to the advanced, efficient, and electronically controlled automatic transmissions seen in modern vehicles.
One might assume that with all these advancements, transmissions today would be nearly flawless in terms of reliability.
Unfortunately, that’s not always true. Despite technological progress, some transmissions still suffer from serious issues due to poor engineering, inferior components, or insufficient refinement and testing.
Even well-known automakers such as Ford and BMW have released vehicles with problematic transmissions. These issues have resulted in lawsuits, widespread recalls, and long-term damage to brand reputations.
What’s even more troubling is that in some instances, manufacturers were fully aware of the problems before releasing the vehicles but chose not to act, instead relying on extended warranties and software updates as stopgap measures.
Sadly, those fixes don’t always work making these six vehicles infamous for having significant transmission troubles.
Nissan Altima
Despite being a widely popular choice for commuters, the earlier Nissan Altima models manufactured between 2002 and 2017 suffered from serious issues with their CVT transmissions.
The CVT, or Continuously Variable Transmission, is a type of automatic gearbox praised for its efficiency and simplicity and is utilized by many automotive manufacturers.
However, in the case of the Altima, the CVT fell short, plagued with a range of issues such as sluggish performance, gear stuttering, unusual noises, and more.
Some model years even experienced more severe mechanical failures like snapped belts and broken pulleys problems not typically associated with traditional manual or automatic transmissions.
Experts attribute these failures to cost-cutting engineering decisions, the use of sub-par components, and a failure to properly account for wear and tear.
These shortcomings meant that the Altima’s CVT typically began to fail around the 80,000 to 100,000-mile mark.
Thankfully, the current generation of the Altima features a much-improved and modern CVT design. For now, the 2024/2025 model years are proving to be significantly more reliable and durable.
Ford Mustang
Transmission problems with Ford’s MT82 6-speed manual are well-known among Mustang enthusiasts.
Used in Mustangs from model years 2011 to 2020 across V6, EcoBoost, and GT trims, the MT82 transmission despite being straightforward in design was compromised by substandard materials such as aluminum casting and an inadequate internal bell housing.
While V6 and EcoBoost variants usually didn’t suffer major issues, the V8-powered Mustangs, particularly those producing more power than standard, frequently experienced complete transmission failures.
Given the Mustang’s reputation for performance and the likelihood of owners modifying and driving them aggressively, the MT82 simply wasn’t robust enough for the job.
Ford acknowledged these problems and issued numerous internal service bulletins over the years. Ultimately, in 2021, the MT82 was replaced by a more dependable transmission built by Getrag.
BMW M5 E60
Temptingly priced on the used market, the BMW E60 M5 boasts a monstrous 507-horsepower V10 engine that attracts performance enthusiasts.
However, prospective buyers should be aware that its SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) is one of the most notoriously problematic transmissions ever fitted in a car.
Even when functioning correctly, the SMG displayed issues such as jerky performance at low speeds, delayed gear shifts, and sudden power loss without explanation.
As these cars age, they tend to suffer from a host of transmission problems including broken synchronizer rings, low hydraulic pressure, fluid leaks, overheating, and electrical faults.
Even brand-new, the SMG-equipped E60 M5s exhibited odd behaviors, such as stuttering during routine highway driving.
While the gearbox did deliver lightning-fast shifts, its poor reliability quickly eroded the car’s resale value and reputation.
The E60-generation BMW M5 is the kind of car you might buy purely for its engine—and honestly, that would be a completely valid reason. Its heart is a naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V10 inspired by Formula 1, delivering a colossal 500bhp at a spine-tingling 7750rpm.
That rev limit sounds more fitting for a high-strung 1990s Honda Type R than a hefty 1830kg executive saloon, especially one that often flies under the radar in black, resembling a bank manager’s 520d more than a machine built to terrorize supercars.
This version of the 5 Series isn’t just about its 0-62mph time of 4.1 seconds—which was outrageous for its era—it’s about the visceral way it achieves that acceleration. The sound alone will tempt you into mashing the throttle and digging into the iDrive system to plot a route with as many tunnels as possible.
The earliest models date back to 2005, and when new, they were priced at £61,750. At that cost, they came loaded with nearly every feature imaginable at the time: 19-inch alloy wheels (now found on regular Golfs), a head-up display, sat-nav, 11 shift modes for the SMG gearbox, and even launch control.
In 2007, BMW gave the M5 a facelift. The easiest visual cues are the LED running lights and tail-lights, though some earlier models may have been retrofitted with them, so don’t rely on that alone.
These facelifted models are generally the ones to aim for, as they came with a refined gearbox featuring upgraded pumps and hardware. Keep in mind that BMW rolled out the facelift in stages, meaning some pre-facelift cars were still being registered late into 2007.
A quicker way to identify a facelifted M5 might be to check the boot—BMW didn’t release the E61 M5 Touring until 2007, so any wagon version is by default a facelifted model.
From the factory, the M5 came with what was once dubbed “The Gimmick of 2004.” When you start the engine, the ECU defaults to 400bhp. To unleash all 500bhp, you have to press a button labeled ‘Power’ on the steering wheel. BMW claimed it helped in wet conditions, but in reality, it served as the ultimate party trick to entertain friends, kids—or even your dog.
The M5 Touring, with its 500 litres of boot space and 500bhp, is a rare beast. Only 222 right-hand-drive units were produced over a span of just three years.
It’s also one of only two estate cars ever fitted with a V10 engine—the other being the C6-generation Audi RS6 Avant. While there is now a new M5 Touring that makes this one seem less rare, that newer model will likely demand over £100,000. By contrast, the E60 M5 Touring can be found for around £30,000.
Of course, you might need another £30,000 for repairs, thanks to the high-revving V10’s known reliability concerns. Still, if you steer clear of examples that have been maintained on a shoestring budget, you could end up with a car that’s more reliable than its reputation suggests.
Behind the wheel, the M5’s balanced chassis and accessible performance earned it a five-star road test verdict from Autocar. When the dampers are set to soft, the ride remains compliant enough to handle expansion joints without punishing occupants. The cabin matches the car’s dual personality—pure 2000s German luxury with barely a hint of sportiness.
You’ll only find subtle nods to the M5’s performance: a few M badges, the SMG gearbox’s paddle shifters, supportive sports seats, and a speedometer that reads all the way up to 200mph.
As expected for a car powered by a Formula 1-derived V10, running costs are through the roof. Light cruising might return around 22mpg, but if you drive it the way it was meant to be driven, don’t expect to see more than 10mpg. And the small fuel tank certainly doesn’t help your chances of stretching out those miles.
Nissan Rogue
Some automotive technicians suggest that the Nissan Rogue has experienced even more transmission problems than the Altima, despite sharing the same CVT unit.
The Rogue, being a larger and heavier vehicle, places more strain on the transmission components, exacerbating reliability issues.
The most troublesome model years range from 2012 to 2018, during which Nissan had to issue several recalls.
The CVT in the Rogue is notorious for stalling, slipping out of gear, poor acceleration, and overall hesitant performance. In more extreme cases, owners have reported overheating, which can severely damage the gearbox.
Due to the CVT’s numerous moving parts and friction, internal temperatures can rise dramatically. Transmission fluid plays a key role in cooling and lubricating these components, but it often wasn’t enough.
Although Nissan dealers offered software updates and recommended fluid changes, these measures only occasionally resolved the transmission’s erratic behavior.
Anyone considering a used Nissan Rogue from this era should approach with caution.
Ford Fiesta
Given the well-documented issues with the DCT transmission in the Ford Focus, it’s surprising that Ford opted to use similar technology in the Fiesta.
This decision contributed significantly to the model’s poor reputation and eventual discontinuation in the U.S. market in 2023.
Common transmission complaints among Fiesta owners included sluggish performance, grinding noises, overheating, gear slipping, and, in some instances, total transmission failure.
Ford’s attempt to address the issues included extending the powertrain warranty to 10 years or 150,000 miles.
While this may have seemed like a generous offer, it did little to alleviate customer dissatisfaction, as the transmission problems often persisted.
The DCT’s dry-clutch design proved to be unreliable over time, and issues began to surface much earlier than anticipated sometimes as soon as 50,000 miles.
Although there are a few rare examples of high-mileage Fiestas with trouble-free gearboxes, those are the exception rather than the norm.
