CVT Or Automatic – Should You Care?
If you're not much of a gearhead, you might be shocked by all the new terminology you're likely to encounter when shopping for a car. These technologies might be especially bewildering if you've been buying used or if you tend to keep your vehicles through several presidential administrations. Even transmission choices aren't as straightforward as they once were.
You might be surprised to learn that you're no longer deciding between traditional manual and automatic transmissions when it comes to newer vehicles. For example, most of Nissan's new car lineup now uses continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), with automatic transmissions reserved for sportier models. So, just what is a CVT, and should you care?
What Are CVTs?
Although they've seen a resurgence over the last decade or two, continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) aren't a new technology. These transmissions have been around for many years, but modern designs are more reliable and offer more performance than older versions, making them more suitable for mass-market usage.
As the name implies, a CVT doesn't use traditional gears. Instead, CVTs use a belt-based design to continuously vary their transmission ratios, allowing them to remain in an engine's ideal powerband. This approach means that CVTs are smoother and potentially more fuel-efficient than traditional automatic transmissions.
Reliability is another high point for CVTs. Modern automatic transmissions are arguably the most complex component in any car, and they tend to be extremely expensive to repair. CVTs are more straightforward, making them both lighter and more reliable. The simplicity and smooth operation of CVTs, therefore, make them exceptionally well-suited to most mainstream vehicles.
Why Do Some Cars Still Use Traditional Automatics?
While CVTs have many advantages, automatic transmissions still have a place. For example, some larger vehicles use traditional 7-speed automatic transmissions. These vehicles feature more powerful engines that would strain the belt system found in most CVTs, so manufacturers prefer automatic transmissions for these applications.
Automatic transmissions also tend to be more common on high-powered sports cars. While these vehicles once primarily featured manual transmissions, modern automatics offer much faster shifting and higher performance. As a result, manufacturers (and many drivers) now prefer automatics on high-performance vehicles.
Should You Care?
When you're shopping for a new vehicle, modern CVTs and automatic transmissions will both provide smooth, efficient power delivery. Manufacturers select the option that's best suited for each particular vehicle, so you can be confident that the transmission in your new car offers the best combination of reliability, performance, and efficiency.
For more information reach out to a dealership of CVTs near you such as a Nissan dealer