Does the 2017 Honda Civic have a CVT transmission?

Yes. Most 2017 Honda Civic models were offered with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and on many trims it was the default setup. However, several variants—particularly enthusiast-focused models and some entry trims—came with a 6-speed manual, and a few were manual-only. The mix depends on body style (sedan, coupe, hatchback) and trim level, reflecting Honda’s push for fuel efficiency with CVTs alongside options for drivers who prefer manual control.

How Honda configured the 2017 Civic’s transmissions

Honda sold the 2017 Civic in three body styles—sedan, coupe, and the newly returned hatchback—across a wide range of trims. Below is a clear breakdown of which versions had a CVT, which offered a manual, and which were locked to one transmission.

Sedan: LX to Touring, plus Si

The 2017 Civic Sedan spans economy to performance. Here’s how transmissions were paired to trims, helping shoppers understand where CVT was standard, optional, or unavailable.

• LX (2.0L): 6-speed manual standard; CVT available
• EX (2.0L): CVT only
• EX-T (1.5L turbo): Available with either 6-speed manual or CVT
• EX-L (1.5L turbo): CVT only
• Touring (1.5L turbo): CVT only
• Si (1.5L high-output turbo): 6-speed manual only (no CVT)

In short, the sedan lineup makes CVT widely accessible, reserving manual-only duty for the Si and keeping manual availability on select mainstream trims for buyers who want engagement over convenience.

Coupe: Style-first, with both CVT and manual choices

The 2017 Civic Coupe emphasizes style while retaining the sedan’s broad transmission strategy. This list outlines where CVT fits and where the manual remains an option.

• LX (2.0L): 6-speed manual standard; CVT available
• LX-P (2.0L): CVT only
• EX-T (1.5L turbo): Available with either 6-speed manual or CVT
• EX-L (1.5L turbo): CVT only
• Touring (1.5L turbo): CVT only
• Si (1.5L high-output turbo): 6-speed manual only (no CVT)

For the coupe, CVT is the norm on upper trims, while performance and base variants cater to manual fans, mirroring the sedan’s approach with a sportier angle.

Hatchback: Turbo power across the board

New for 2017 in the U.S., the Civic Hatchback came exclusively with a 1.5L turbo and a sport-leaning mission. Transmission availability reflects that balance of efficiency and engagement.

• LX (1.5L turbo): 6-speed manual or CVT (both offered)
• Sport (1.5L turbo): 6-speed manual standard; CVT available
• EX (1.5L turbo): CVT only
• EX-L Navi (1.5L turbo): CVT only
• Sport Touring (1.5L turbo): CVT only

The hatchback lineup ensures CVT coverage on mainstream and premium trims, while LX and Sport keep a manual option for drivers seeking a more direct connection.

Why Honda leaned on CVT for the 2017 Civic

Honda prioritized fuel economy, smoothness, and broad-market appeal with the CVT, pairing it with both 2.0L and 1.5L turbo engines across most trims. At the same time, Honda preserved manual options—particularly for the Si and select lower or sport trims—to satisfy driving enthusiasts who value shift feel and control. This dual strategy helped the Civic deliver standout EPA ratings while maintaining performance credibility.

How to confirm what your car has

If you own—or are considering buying—a 2017 Civic and want to verify the transmission, these steps can quickly settle it.

• Check the window sticker/Monroney or original build sheet for “CVT” or “6MT.”
• Look at the shifter: a PRNDL gear selector indicates CVT; a clutch pedal and H-pattern shifter indicate manual.
• Use the VIN in a Honda dealer system or trusted decoder to pull the exact spec.
• Consult the owner’s manual for your trim; it lists the factory-available transmissions.

These methods help ensure you’re certain about the drivetrain, which can affect driving feel, maintenance, and resale considerations.

Bottom line

The 2017 Honda Civic was widely available with a CVT, and on many trims it was the only transmission offered. Manual gearboxes were reserved for specific trims—most notably the Si (manual-only) and some LX/EX-T variants in the sedan and coupe, plus LX and Sport in the hatchback. If you want a CVT, nearly every non-Si Civic from 2017 offers it; if you prefer a manual, target the trims noted above.

Summary

Yes, the 2017 Honda Civic has a CVT, and it’s standard or available on most trims across sedan, coupe, and hatchback body styles. Exceptions include manual-only performance models (Si) and select trims where a 6-speed manual was offered. Verify by trim and body style—or confirm via VIN, window sticker, or owner’s documentation—to be sure of a specific car’s transmission.

How do I know if my Honda Civic has a CVT transmission?

To determine if your Honda Civic has a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), you can either check the owner’s manual or pay attention to the driving experience. CVTs provide a seamless, gearless acceleration, while traditional automatic transmissions have distinct gear shifts. You can also look for a “zero gears” or “gears: 0” notation in the vehicle’s documentation, which may indicate a CVT. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
1. Check the Owner’s Manual: 

• The most straightforward method is to consult your Honda Civic’s owner’s manual. It should clearly state the type of transmission installed.

2. Observe the Driving Experience:

• Traditional Automatic: . Opens in new tabIf you feel distinct shifts in engine speed and hear the engine revving up and down as you accelerate, it’s likely a traditional automatic transmission. 
• CVT: . Opens in new tabCVTs offer a smooth, seamless acceleration without noticeable gear changes. The engine speed may increase as you accelerate, but the sensation will be more linear than in a traditional automatic. 
• Highway Driving: . Opens in new tabOn the highway, a CVT’s engine speed may fluctuate based on the terrain, increasing on hills and decreasing on descents, while a traditional automatic will maintain a more constant engine speed. 

3. Check Documentation: 

• Some Honda models with CVT transmissions may indicate “zero gears” or “gears: 0” in the vehicle’s documentation.

4. Confirm with a Dealer: 

• If you’re still unsure, you can always consult with a Honda dealership. They can verify the transmission type by checking your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number).

Which Civic has no CVT?

The Honda Civic Type R is the only Honda Civic model that does not come with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). It is exclusively available with a six-speed manual transmission. Other Civic trims, like the LX, EX, and Sport, come standard with a CVT. 
You can watch this video for a review of the 2018 Honda Civic Type R, which clarifies that it does not have a CVT: 58sInside LaneYouTube · Jan 8, 2017

Does a 2017 Civic have a CVT?

Yes, most 2017 Honda Civic models are equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which provides smooth acceleration and improved efficiency. While some LX and EX trims might have other transmission options, the EX-T, EX-L, Touring, and hatchback models commonly feature the CVT. 
How to check for a CVT transmission:

• Look for the specific trim level: Higher-end trims like the EX-T, EX-L, and Touring, as well as the hatchback models, often come with a CVT. 
• Check the VIN: A more detailed method is to use the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to find the exact transmission type for that specific vehicle. 

What to expect from a CVT:

• Smooth Operation: CVTs use a belt and pulley system to adjust the “gear ratio” infinitely, resulting in seamless acceleration without the distinct shifts of a traditional automatic transmission. 
• Efficiency: By precisely selecting the optimal ratio, CVTs help the engine operate at its most efficient RPM, improving fuel economy. 
• Simulated Gear Shifts: Many modern CVTs are programmed to simulate gear shifts, giving drivers a more familiar feel and sound during acceleration. 

What year did the Honda Civic get a CVT?

Honda began offering Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) in the Civic in the 1996 HX model, and they became available in the model year 2014 as standard on many trims, while Civic Hybrids have featured CVTs since 2006. 
Here’s a breakdown of the Civic’s CVT adoption:

• 1996: The Civic HX coupe was the first model to feature a CVT. 
• 2006: Civic Hybrid models started using CVTs. 
• 2014: CVTs became the standard automatic transmission for many trims, such as the EX, EX-L, and HF. 
• 2015: The 2015 models also came equipped with CVTs. 
• Present: Modern Civics continue to be available with CVT technology in both their gas and hybrid models.