Nissan Says CVTs Make Sense—But Not For Everything: 'Not Putting A CVT In A Skyline'

Why It Matters

The shift signals Nissan’s strategic realignment of its power‑train portfolio, influencing supply chains, resale values, and consumer confidence in CVT reliability across the market.

Key Takeaways

• Nissan keeps CVTs for sub‑compact and C‑segment cars.
• Murano and Pathfinder now use nine‑speed automatics.
• Future performance models like Skyline will not have CVTs.
• $3 million settlement resolves CVT lawsuit, extends warranties.
• CVT shift may boost resale confidence in affected models.

Pulse Analysis

Continuously variable transmissions have been a double‑edged sword for Nissan. While the technology offers smooth acceleration and fuel‑efficiency benefits, early reliability issues tarnished its reputation, culminating in a 2025 class‑action settlement that cost the company $3 million. By extending warranties, Nissan aims to restore trust among owners of Maxima and Murano models, while also signaling a willingness to address legacy concerns head‑on.

The automaker’s engineering roadmap now favors conventional multi‑speed automatics for its E‑segment and larger vehicles. Replacing CVTs with nine‑speed units in the Murano and Pathfinder improves torque handling and driver engagement, aligning these models with consumer expectations for performance and durability. This transition also simplifies the supply chain, as traditional automatics are produced at higher volumes globally, reducing parts complexity and potentially lowering production costs.

For the broader market, Nissan’s decision reshapes competitive dynamics. Competitors such as Toyota and Honda continue to refine CVT designs for small cars, while luxury brands lean toward dual‑clutch or manual options for sportier models. Nissan’s focus on retaining CVTs only in sub‑compact and budget‑friendly vehicles could enhance resale values for those segments, as buyers gain confidence that the technology will remain supported. Meanwhile, the exclusion of CVTs from future Skyline‑type sports cars underscores a commitment to delivering the driving experience expected in performance niches, positioning Nissan to capture enthusiasts seeking a more traditional transmission feel.