CVT Transmission vs Automatic Transmission

Car transmissions have changed in recent years. Continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) are catching up to traditional automatic transmissions in popularity. Each has advantages, but understanding their differences is essential when choosing your next car. Read as our AutoCenters Nissan team in St. Louis, Missouri, compares CVTs vs. automatic transmissions so you can determine which fits your driving style better.

What Is a CVT?

A CVT is a newer type of automatic transmission that uses pulleys and belts instead of fixed gears. This setup lets you accelerate without feeling the distinct gear shifts you notice in regular automatics. CVTs have two cone-shaped pulleys linked by a steel belt or chain. These pulleys can adjust their width, moving closer or farther apart.

CVTs can help an engine run more efficiently by constantly adjusting gear ratios to keep it in its sweet spot, providing better gas mileage and a smoother ride. This technology is becoming more popular, and companies such as Nissan are working to improve CVTs.

What Is an Automatic Transmission?

An automatic transmission uses a fixed set of gears, usually six. It shifts gears based on your speed and how hard the engine is working, using planetary gears and hydraulic pressure to control these changes. The torque converter keeps the engine running when you’re stopped at a light.

Automatic transmissions often let you shift manually or use paddle shifters for more control. These upgrades have made them more efficient and improved their performance.

Key Differences Between CVTs and Automatic Transmissions

CVTs and automatic transmissions vary in several ways.

Performance and Driving Experience

CVTs provide smoother acceleration without obvious gear changes, which provides a more refined driving experience but can create a rubber band effect, where the engine revs stay high during acceleration. To fix this, some carmakers program their CVTs to fake gear shifts, making them feel more like what you’re used to.

Traditional automatics have clear shift points. These shifts provide a more classic driving experience, especially if you like feeling your car moving through its gears.

Fuel Efficiency

CVTs contribute to better gas mileage. They can boost fuel efficiency by keeping the engine running at its most efficient rpm. CVTs find the perfect gear ratio for any driving situation, wasting less power and stretching your gas money further.

Modern automatic transmissions are more efficient than before, especially with more gear options, but don’t match CVT gas mileage. Cars with CVTs beat those with nine-speed automatics in terms of fuel economy.

Maintenance and Reliability

Taking care of these transmissions varies a bit. CVTs have more complex parts and need regular fluid changes. Follow the owner’s manual for maintenance instructions.

Mechanics are more familiar with automatic transmissions, meaning easier and sometimes cheaper repairs. Both transmissions can last with proper care. While CVTs average 100,000 miles or less, regular automatics often have a longer life span.

Acceleration and Power Delivery

How these transmissions deliver power feels quite different behind the wheel. CVTs find the right power level for efficiency, keeping the engine strongest during acceleration. But this can sometimes make your vehicle feel sluggish, especially in cars with smaller engines.

Automatic transmissions often respond quickly, which is essential for sporty driving or towing. Many sports cars stick with traditional automatics. There’s also a practical limit: CVTs offer less torque. This difference makes automatics better for trucks, sports cars, and towing heavy loads.

Cost Considerations

Cars with CVTs may cost more because the technology is complex. But better gas mileage can compensate for this, saving you money at the pump.

Repair bills can also differ. CVTs may need more specialized (and sometimes pricier) service. However, their simpler design with fewer parts may sometimes mean cheaper fixes. We’ll likely see more affordable maintenance options as CVTs become more common.

Which Transmission Is Best for You?

Deciding between a CVT and an automatic transmission depends on what you want from your car. If you prioritize fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration, go with a CVT. It can be a good choice if you primarily drive in city traffic or on highways, where CVTs shine. Since a CVT helps the engine use less gas and create fewer emissions, you’ll also help the environment.

Stick with a traditional automatic transmission if you want to feel gear shifts or regularly tow heavy loads. Car lovers often prefer automatics for their quick response and ability to handle more power. Think about where you drive; if you’re often in hilly or mountainous areas, you may like how predictably automatics deliver power.

Why Nissan Uses CVT Technology

Nissan jumped on CVT technology early, first using it worldwide in 1992 and bringing it to American drivers with the 2003 Murano. The manufacturer has stuck with CVTs because of their improved gas mileage and smoother driving experience. Nissan’s XTRONIC CVT includes D-Step Logic Control to mimic traditional gear shifts.

The newest XTRONIC CVT is 13% lighter and 10% smaller, with 40% less friction. These improvements mean better gas mileage and performance. It boasts a transmission ratio of 7.3:1, compared to the usual 6.0:1 in similar cars, giving you quicker acceleration and up to 10% better fuel efficiency.

Making the Right Choice for Your Driving Needs

When choosing between CVTs vs. automatic transmissions, consider the driving experience you want. A CVT offers smooth, efficient driving, while a regular automatic may serve you better for a traditional feel or towing.

Visit our AutoCenters Nissan dealership in St. Louis and test-drive Nissan models with CVT technology, then compare them to cars with traditional automatics. Our team can answer your questions and help you find the right car for your needs.