Does Your Toyota RAV4 Have a CVT? A Comprehensive Guide

Updated: 10 Aug 2024

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Having an advanced transmission type such as CVT on your car is very important for both the driver and the car’s efficiency. Most Rav4 enthusiasts want to know whether their Rav4 has CVT or not.

Most of the old Rav4s had a traditional conventional automatic transmission, but there is good news: some of the new models have a CVT. Nowadays, a CVT is basically an advanced transmission system found in every other advanced car to make it more efficient.

In the article below, we will explain its advantages and compare it with another traditional transmission system, so without waiting any further, let’s get to it.

Table of Content

What is CVT:
What is E-CVT:
Comparing CVT with Traditional Automatic Transmission:
FAQs
Conclusion:

What is CVT:

CVT could be a term simply heard from here and there, especially if you’ve got a car or are aiming to get one. A CVT is a transmission system that stands for (Continuous Variable Transmission). Essentially, it is a version of automatic transmission that eliminates the requirements for conventional gear shifts and gives smooth speeding up. Fundamentally, the CVT operation focuses on using a pulley framework that can persistently change the gear proportion, unlike a conventional automatic transmission, which uses a fixed number of gears. This results in a smoother speed increment.

CVT in Toyota RAV4:

The Toyota RAV4’s various trim levels and models come with various transmission choices. The RAV4 has always had a conventional automatic transmission. Some of the rav4 models have a CVT system, but not all of them. Now, most of the latest rav4 models, especially hybrids, have ECVT instead of CVT. Some of those models are given below.

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid:

The electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT) is standard on hybrid RAV4 models. This transmission is explicitly intended to upgrade the hybrid powertrain’s presentation and productivity.

Toyota RAV4 Prime:

The prime hybrid version of the RAV4 is also equipped with an ECVT to efficiently manage the combined power output of the electric motor and gasoline engine.

Please watch the below video for more details:

What is E-CVT:

The E-CVT is an advanced and intelligent car transmission system mostly used in advanced hybrid cars. This system can analyze the car’s speed along a road condition and select the gear ratio according to that condition.

It uses two electric motors, which distinguish it from other conventional CVTs. One motor is connected to the planetary gear shaft and transmission shaft, while the other is connected to the engine through a ring gear set. As soon as the gear rotates, the required gear provides the required rotation to the wheel.

Advantages of CVT:
It has different benefits to not only the car but also the driver. In which some are given below. CVTs can maintain the engine’s most efficient RPM setting, potentially increasing fuel economy. When there are no gear shifts, driving can be easier, especially when you’re accelerating. CVTs are especially useful in hybrid vehicles because they can seamlessly manage the power from both the gasoline engine and the electric motor.

Advantages of CVT:

It has different benefits to not only the car but also the driver. In which some are given below.
CVTs can maintain the engine’s most efficient RPM setting, potentially increasing fuel economy.
When there are no gear shifts, driving can be easier, especially when you’re accelerating.
CVTs are especially useful in hybrid vehicles because they can seamlessly manage the power from both the gasoline engine and the electric motor.

Comparing CVT with Traditional Automatic Transmission:

Now, let’s get a detailed comparison between CVT and traditional automatic transmission.

Gear Shifts:

Conventional automatic transmissions regularly use a predetermined number of gears, which causes recognizable shifts when the vehicle is moving rapidly. A CVT, on the other hand, delivers power smoothly and persistently.

Fuel Economy:

CVTs can maintain the engine’s optimal power range, making them generally more fuel-efficient than conventional automatics.

Also, read about Toyota’s BSM system here. Continue Reading…!

Driving Experience and Performance:

A CVT offers a smooth and productive speed increase, ideal for people who focus on mileage and solace. However, the absence of gear shifts may result in a less dynamic driving experience. The traditional automatic transmission provides a really captivating driving involvement in particular stuff shifts, which a few drivers might like. Nevertheless, it may not be as fuel-efficient as a CVT.

Also Read: how to Lift your Rav4 for off Road adventure in the linked guide. Continue reading

FAQs

What Toyota does not have a CVT transmission?

Many Toyota brands don’t have CVT transmissions, including the Supra, 4Runner, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Tacoma, Tundra, and Rav4, which are non-hybrids.

How long does a CVT transmission Last?

The CVT transmission normally lasts about 100,000 miles. However, this is not the case for all car models; some may provide an extra transmission, while others can’t.

How often should I change my CVT transmission fluid?

Most professional car mechanics suggest changing CVT transmission fluid after 30,000 to 60,000 miles. However, different cars have different mileage requirements, so you should check your car manual for further details.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, I just want to mention that in rav4, most of the hybrid models have CVT. The CVT is an advanced transmission system that increases overall performance, including fuel efficiency and driving experience.

I hope you understand, but if you still have any questions, then ask them and let me know in the comment section, and I will get back to you as soon as possible.