Does the 2018 Honda Accord have a CVT transmission?

Yes—many 2018 Honda Accord models do have a CVT. Specifically, most versions equipped with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine use a continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Accord Hybrid uses an electronic CVT (e-CVT), and models with the 2.0-liter turbo engine use a 10‑speed automatic or a 6‑speed manual, not a CVT. Below is a detailed breakdown to help you identify which 2018 Accord has which transmission.

How the 2018 Accord’s transmissions break down

Honda offered three distinct powertrain families for the 2018 Accord, and the transmission type depends on the engine you choose. Here’s how they map out across the lineup.

• 1.5-liter turbocharged I-4: CVT on most trims; the Sport 1.5T was also available with a 6-speed manual in 2018 in addition to the CVT.
• 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4: 10-speed automatic on most trims; the Sport 2.0T offered a 6-speed manual option (no CVT with this engine).
• Accord Hybrid: e-CVT as part of Honda’s two-motor hybrid system (no stepped gears, not a belt-and-pulley CVT).

In practice, if you’re looking at a non-hybrid 2018 Accord with the smaller 1.5T engine, you’re most likely looking at a CVT. The 2.0T models and the manual-equipped Sport variants are the exceptions.

What “CVT” and “e-CVT” mean in the Accord

On gasoline-only 1.5T models, Honda uses a belt-and-pulley CVT tuned for smooth, efficient acceleration and simulated “shift” steps in sportier driving modes. The Accord Hybrid’s e-CVT is different: it’s an electronic, power-split setup that blends the output of a gasoline engine and electric motors without conventional gears. Both aim to maximize efficiency, but they operate using different technologies.

Driving feel and efficiency

Shoppers often ask how a CVT-equipped Accord feels on the road and what trade-offs to expect. Here are the key considerations.

• Strengths: Very smooth acceleration, excellent fuel economy (especially in city driving), and quiet cruising.
• Trade-offs: Some drivers notice a “rubber-band” sensation under hard acceleration with CVTs; Honda mitigates this with programming that mimics gear changes.
• Hybrid e-CVT: Delivers strong around-town response and top-tier mpg, with a different, more seamless acceleration character than a conventional automatic.

Most daily drivers prefer the calm, efficient behavior of the CVT or e-CVT, while enthusiasts may gravitate toward the 2.0T with the 10-speed automatic or the rare 6-speed manual Sport trims.

How to verify the transmission on a specific 2018 Accord

If you’re checking a particular car—new-to-you or listed online—these quick checks can confirm which transmission it has.

• Look for “CVT,” “10AT,” or “6MT” on the original window sticker or build sheet.
• Decode the VIN in a Honda dealer system or reputable VIN decoder; it will indicate engine and transmission.
• Check the shifter and cluster: manuals have a visible clutch pedal and gear pattern; 10-speed autos often show “S” and paddle shifters; CVTs typically show PRND with an “S” or “L.”
• Confirm the engine: 1.5T models are commonly CVT; 2.0T models are 10AT or 6MT; Hybrids are e-CVT.

These steps help eliminate guesswork, particularly on Sport trims where both manual and automatic options were sold.

Bottom line

The 2018 Honda Accord does have a CVT—primarily on 1.5T models—and the Hybrid uses an e-CVT. If you want to avoid a CVT, look for 2.0T trims with the 10-speed automatic or a Sport model with the 6-speed manual.

Summary

Many 2018 Accords use a CVT: 1.5T models typically do, the Hybrid uses an e-CVT, and 2.0T models use a 10-speed automatic or a 6-speed manual instead. Verify on a specific car via the window sticker, VIN, or shifter layout.

How do I tell if my Honda has a CVT transmission?

To tell if your Honda has a CVT, look for a “PRNDL” (Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive, Low) gear selector with no numbers and observe the tachometer while driving; the engine RPMs will remain relatively steady during acceleration rather than dropping with gear shifts, or you can check your owner’s manual or vehicle VIN for the specific transmission type. 
Check the Gear Selector 

• Look at the display: If your gear selector has “PRNDL” but no numbered “gears” (e.g., 1, 2, 3), it likely has a CVT.

Observe the Tachometer While Driving 

• Listen for a “shift”: In a traditional automatic transmission, the engine’s RPMs will climb, then drop noticeably as the car shifts gears. 
• Feel the acceleration: A CVT provides a smooth, continuous acceleration. You will not hear or feel distinct gear changes. 
• Monitor the engine speed: With a CVT, when you press the gas pedal, the engine RPMs will rise to a certain level and stay there, allowing the vehicle to accelerate smoothly without the gear changes you’d feel in a conventional transmission. 

Consult Your Vehicle Information

• Owner’s Manual: . Opens in new tabCheck your Honda’s owner’s manual for information on your transmission type. 
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): . Opens in new tabYou can find your vehicle’s transmission details by looking up the VIN, usually on the dashboard or driver’s side door jamb. 

Which Honda Accord has a CVT transmission?

Accord models with the 1.5-liter engine come with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Honda CVTs provide an outstanding driving experience along with superb fuel efficiency. The CVT allows the engine to always operate at the optimum rpm level, enabling maximum efficiency under all driving conditions.

What is the most common problem with the 2018 Honda Accord?

Owner Reported Trouble Spots

• In-car Electronics. Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.
• Climate System.
• Electrical Accessories.
• Exhaust.
• Fuel System/Emissions.
• Noises/Leaks.
• Brakes.
• Engine Major.

Which Hondas do not have CVT transmissions?

Honda models without a CVT include the Civic Type R and Civic Si (manual only), most large SUVs like the Passport, Pilot, and Ridgeline, and the Odyssey minivan, all of which use traditional automatic transmissions. For most other Honda models, such as the Civic sedan, Accord, and CR-V, you will typically find a CVT, especially with smaller 4-cylinder engines, although some models may offer a manual transmission or have higher trims with traditional automatics. 
Models with Traditional Automatics or Manuals 

• Civic Type R & Si: These performance-oriented models are only available with a manual transmission, not a CVT. 
• Passport, Pilot, & Ridgeline: These larger SUVs and the Honda Ridgeline truck are not equipped with CVT transmissions and use traditional automatic transmissions instead. 
• Odyssey: The Odyssey minivan uses a traditional automatic transmission, not a CVT. 
• Older Models: For some models like the Honda Accord, you might find a traditional automatic on V6-equipped or higher trim levels (e.g., the 9th generation Accord V6 models had a traditional automatic). 

Finding a Honda Without a CVT

• Focus on Manual Transmissions: The most straightforward way to avoid a CVT is to buy a model with a manual transmission, like the Civic Type R or Civic Si. 
• Consider Larger Models: Larger vehicles like the Passport, Pilot, and Ridgeline do not use CVTs, so they are options if you prefer a traditional automatic. 
• Check Specific Trims/Engine Options: For models like the Accord, the transmission choice can vary by engine. Historically, V6 models were sometimes paired with traditional automatics instead of the CVT found on 4-cylinder models. 
• Look for Pre-Owned Models: If you’re looking at used vehicles, you’ll need to check the VIN or consult the owner’s manual for the specific model year and trim to determine the transmission type.