Continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) don’t exactly have the best reputation among gearheads. In fact, they probably have the least amount of fans when compared to manual and automatic transmissions. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean they aren’t worth your time.
If you’re in the market for a new car, you might want to consider giving one with a CVT a chance.
A CVT is a type of transmission designed to provide a smooth driving experience. Unlike manual and automatic transmissions, a CVT doesn’t have any gears.
A CVT consists of two pulleys connected by a belt. One pulley connects to the engine, while the other connects to the wheels. Together, they provide an infinite number of gear ratios, which change depending on the width of the pulleys.
Here are the common reasons why many people don’t like CVTs:
This is one of the most common complaints people have against CVTs. With a CVT, you don’t have to worry about constantly switching gears. It’s easier to drive, which can be great for those looking for an economy commuter but a dealbreaker for people who enjoy a challenge.
When CVTs first hit the market, they weren’t exactly the most durable. They were known to break down after 100,000 miles or so, mostly because the belt was susceptible to excessive wear. While CVT vehicles have certainly improved over the years, it’s hard for some people to forget the initial impression they left.
Because a CVT doesn’t shift gears like a manual or automatic transmission, it can feel a bit disconcerting to drivers who are used to the feel of gear shifts. Some manufacturers have even added fake gears to CVTs to mimic the way automatics shift. While it might feel similar, it’s still not enough for drivers who prefer a traditional transmission.
As its name suggests, a CVT can continuously change its gear ratio, regardless of the engine speed. This unique feature means you don’t have to switch gears as you would with a manual or automatic.
However, this also means you won’t feel your vehicle upshifting or downshifting at all. CVTs offer a smooth driving experience similar to an electric vehicle (EV), which can take some getting used to for most drivers.
Despite their bad reputation, CVTs come with their fair share of advantages. Here are some of the pros of a CVT:
Nowadays, vehicles with automatic transmissions come with 10 or more speed options. In contrast, a CVT offers an infinite range of gear ratios, thanks to its pulley system. The belt and pulleys in a CVT aren’t fixed, which means they don’t have a set number of gears.
If there’s one thing the CVT is known for, it’s fuel efficiency. The CVT is much lighter than most automatic transmissions, which means the engine burns less fuel to keep it going. It also helps the engine maintain the ideal torque ratio, making it easier to take off from a stoplight or drive uphill.
Driving a CVT can make it easier to transition to an EV down the line. EVs don’t come with traditional transmissions, which can be hard to get used to at first.
Yes, CVTs also need transmission fluid to function properly. CVT transmission fluid is specifically designed to lubricate the transmission’s moving parts and prevent wear. It has a different viscosity from other types of transmission fluid and should never be used interchangeably.
While the exact service interval can vary depending on the vehicle’s year, make, and model, most CVT transmission fluids should be replaced every 60,000 miles.
While CVTs didn’t become mainstream until the 1980s, they’ve actually been around for much longer than that. In fact, Leonardo DaVinci was the first to design the CVT in 1490. It was then patented in 1886 by Karl Benz before it eventually hit the US market in the form of Subaru’s 1989 Justy.
Today, CVTs continue to grow in popularity, with manufacturers releasing more vehicles with CVTs.
Nowadays, CVTs are gaining popularity among customers for their impressive fuel economy. Because CVTs can keep the engine at the optimal RPM at all times, they’re much more efficient. You can accelerate faster, even with a smaller engine.
CVTs also have fewer parts than manual or automatic transmissions, so they’re cheaper to manufacture.
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