CVT vs. Automatic Transmission β Everything You Need to Know

Even if you're unfamiliar with transmissions, you've likely heard of two main types: manual and automatic. A CVT, or continuously variable transmission, is a newer variation of the latter. It's often shiftless transmission due to its continuous range of gear ratios. Benefits of CVT Transmission One of the primary advantages of a CVT is its superior fuel efficiency compared to conventional automatic transmissions. In addition to this, CVTs often deliver a smoother driving experience for drivers and passengers alike. Due to these benefits, CVTs are increasingly favored by automakers and are becoming a popular choice in many vehicles. How Does a CVT Transmission Work? To understand how a CVT works, it's helpful to compare it to a manual and a traditional automatic transmission. A manual transmission has a fixed number of gears, and the driver manually selects the gear ratio. In contrast, a traditional automatic transmission also has a set number of gears but uses a hydraul...