Nissan Cars with & without CVT (9 Models: New + Used)
Nissan was one of the early adopters of the continuously-variable transmission (CVT) in mainstream passenger vehicles for optimal fuel efficiency.
These are Nissan cars and their respective model years and trim levels with CVT.
Nissan Models with CVT Transmission
#1 Nissan Kicks
The Kicks is a relatively new entrant in the subcompact SUV class and a stylish yet affordable city runabout.
The CVT transmission is standard in all Nissan Kicks crossovers.
Considering its diminutive dimensions and CVT gearbox, Nissan Kicks returns high fuel economy.
#2 Nissan Versa
Nissan Versa is one of the few extra-small sedans but has a spacious interior and sizable trunk.
Although some model years have a manual transmission, the CVT-equipped ones are the fuel-saver star.
The Nissan Versa has had a CVT since its 2007 debut, but with limited trim levels offering the transmission; 2008 to 2011 models continued that trend.
2012 to 2017 saw more Nissan Versa subcompacts gaining the CVT.
From 2018 to the current model, the CVT transmission has become standard across every automatic-gearbox Nissan Versa.
#3 Nissan Sentra
Like many Japanese rival manufacturers, Nissan has a competent entry in the small sedan class with the smooth-riding Sentra.
Although the 2006 and older Nissan Sentra lacked CVT, 2007 to 2019 sedans had that transmission in most auto models.
Nissan dropped the manual gearbox in 2020, making CVT the sole transmission offering in the Sentra sedan of that and later years.
Nissan Sentras with CVT typically achieve segment-average fuel economy. Still, if you want the thriftiest small sedan, you might have better luck with a CVT-shod model from one of these Nissan competitors:
#4 Nissan Altima
Nissan Altima has always been mediocre in a field filled with more-illustrious players like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord.
Still, Nissan Altima, from 2007 onwards, has a CVT transmission and above-average fuel economy.
Nissan Altima sedans with a CVT transmission include the fourth generation (2007 to 2012), fifth generation (2013 to 2018), and sixth generation (2019 to the present).
#5 Nissan Maxima
This midsize sedan is unique in the Japanese marque’s lineup, similar in size to the Altima but built for performance with its sporty handling.
Nissan Maxima sedans with the CVT transmission cover several generations, including the sixth (2007 and 2008 models), seventh (2009 to 2014), and eighth (2016 to the present).
However, Maxima’s V6 powertrain with CVT has subpar fuel economy compared to the competition with similarly upgraded engines.
#6 Nissan Juke
Although discontinued after 2017, Nissan remains a relatively good used car, with a fuel-saving CVT and optional all-wheel drive.
Every Nissan Juke with an automatic transmission between 2011 and 2017 was a CVT model.
It has tight and sporty handling, making it fun to drive and ideal for tight urban spaces.
#7 Nissan Rogue Sport
This car could be an excellent choice in the small SUV segment, except for its underwhelming engine and subpar ride quality.
Although its CVT returns mediocre fuel economy, the Rogue Sport (2017 and newer) has spacious storage and is easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
#8 Nissan Rogue
With star performers like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and other competitors in a crowded small SUV field – many with CVT – Nissan Rogue still manages to stand out.
Among its strong pluses are its many features for the money, large cargo area, and above-average fuel efficiency.
Plus, the CVT transmission has been standard equipment in all Nissan Rogue SUVs between 2008 and 2023.
#9 Nissan Murano
The Murano is a relatively strong pick in the midsize SUV class, with bold styling and comfortable ride quality.
That said, the CVT-mated engines’ fuel consumption is nowhere near the thriftiest among the competition.
All Nissan Muranos have had CVT since the model’s 2003 debut, spanning the first (2003 to 2007), second (2009 to 2014), and third (2015 to present) generations.
Nissan Models without CVT Transmission
Nissan cars, SUVs, and trucks that do not have CVT are:
- Nissan GT-R – sports coupe.
- Nissan Z Coupe – sports coupe.
- Nissan Pathfinder – midsize SUV.
- Nissan Armada – large SUV.
- Nissan Frontier – midsize pickup truck.
- Nissan Titan – full-size light-duty pickup truck.
This Japanese make is one of the few automakers with V6 engines and those with V8s, equipping the larger vehicles with seven, eight, or nine-speed non-CTV or shiftable automatic gearboxes.
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