Automatic transmissions have become increasingly common in Portugal, thanks to their comfort, technological evolution and improved efficiency. Yet one question remains for many drivers: how many gears does an automatic car actually have?
The truth is that there is no single answer. The number of gears varies significantly depending on the type of transmission. Today, we have traditional automatics, dual-clutch gearboxes, CVTs, and robotised manuals — each with different operating principles and gear counts.
Below is a clear explanation of how each type works.
1. Traditional automatic gearbox (torque converter)
This is the classic automatic transmission found in many models from brands such as Mercedes, BMW, Toyota and Volkswagen.
How many gears does it have?
Typically:
- 4 gears (older models)
- 5 or 6 gears (models from around 2010–2015)
- 7, 8 or even 9 gears (modern cars)
Today, one of the most common setups is the 8-speed automatic, known for its smoothness, efficiency and balanced performance.
2. Dual-clutch transmission (DSG, DCT, EDC)
This type became popular due to its very fast shifts and efficient fuel consumption.
Used by:
- Volkswagen (DSG)
- Audi (S-Tronic)
- Renault (EDC)
- Hyundai / Kia (DCT)
- Ford (older Powershift versions)
How many gears?
Generally:
- 6 gears
- 7 gears
Some manufacturers are developing 8-speed DCT units, but these are still less common.
3. CVT automatic gearbox (Continuously Variable Transmission)
This is the transmission used by most hybrid cars, such as:
- Toyota Yaris Hybrid
- Toyota Corolla Hybrid
- Honda Jazz
- Nissan Qashqai (in some versions)
How many gears?
In practice: none.
A CVT does not work with traditional gear steps. It uses pulleys and belts to create an infinite number of ratios, continuously adapting to driving conditions.
To avoid confusing drivers, some brands simulate:
- 6 steps
- 7 steps
- or even 10 steps
But these “gears” are purely virtual.
4. Robotised manual gearbox
Less common today, but found in older Renault, Peugeot and Citroën models.
How many gears?
Typically:
- 5 gears
- 6 gears
It is essentially a manual gearbox operated by electronic actuators.
So, how many gears does an automatic car have?
It depends entirely on the transmission type:
Transmission typeActual number of gearsTraditional automatic4 to 10 gearsDual-clutch6 or 7 gearsCVTNo gears (infinite ratios)Robotised manual5 or 6 gears
Which automatic gearboxes are most common in Portugal today?
The dominant ones are:
- 8-speed traditional automatic (BMW, Mercedes, Peugeot, Volvo, etc.)
- CVT in hybrids (Toyota, Honda, Nissan)
- 7-speed dual-clutch (Volkswagen, Audi, Renault)
These three types lead the market thanks to their efficiency, comfort and low maintenance needs compared to older transmissions.
An automatic car can have no fixed gears at all (as in CVTs) or up to 8, 9 or even 10 gears in modern torque-converter automatics.
The type of transmission determines not only the number of gears, but also the driving feel, durability and fuel economy.