Does the Toyota Levin have a manual transmission?
4 Answers
Toyota Levin does not have a manual transmission model. This car uses a CVT transmission, while the hybrid version uses an eCVT transmission. Here is some information about the engine and the car itself: 1. The Levin is equipped with two types of engines, one is a 1.2-liter turbocharged engine, and the other is a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated engine. The model with the 1.2T engine uses a CVT transmission. 2. The CVT transmission allows the engine to always stay within a reasonable speed range, which can improve the car's fuel economy. 3. This car is positioned as a compact car, so the front row space can meet daily needs, and the storage space is also sufficient. As for the rear row, the overall feeling is similar to the front row, with plenty of legroom.
When I helped my friend check out a used Levin last time, I noticed a phenomenon – the older models indeed had manual transmissions, especially the pre-2017 1.2T and 1.8L versions equipped with 6-speed manual gearboxes that felt quite engaging to drive. But now the 2023 new models sold in dealerships all come with CVT transmissions, with even the base trim eliminating the manual option. Last year, my cousin wanted to buy a new manual car but could only find a two-year-old leftover model after visiting numerous 4S stores. Honestly, buying a manual now mainly requires scouring the used car market – for instance, a 2016 manual Elite edition can be snapped up for around 50,000 yuan, but clutch wear needs attention. Toyota’s strategy is understandable, given severe urban traffic congestion where manuals no longer hold a fuel efficiency advantage.
As someone who frequents automotive forums, I've noticed quite a controversy among young car owners about this. After the 2019 facelift, the Levin gradually phased out manual transmission models, and now showrooms only stock CVT versions. However, in car enthusiast groups, some specifically seek out 2015-2017 manual transmission Levins for modifications, claiming that the 1.8L naturally aspirated engine paired with a manual gearbox delivers exceptionally linear RPM climbs when shifting at redline. If you're really looking to buy a new car, at the same price point you might want to consider the Civic or Mazda 3. Actually, automatic transmission technology has become very mature nowadays. Toyota's CVT with launch gear offers much quicker low-speed response than older AT transmissions, and your left foot won't get tired in traffic jams.
Last week, I accompanied my neighbor to service his 2014 manual Corolla and specifically asked the mechanic. New cars indeed no longer come with manual transmissions, but feedback from owners of older manual models has been quite positive, with clutch plates needing replacement only after 100,000 kilometers. The mechanic mentioned that manual transmissions have simpler structures, resulting in lower failure rates and fewer electrical issues, with each service costing just over 300 yuan. However, it's important to note that some batches of the 2016 model have common issues with the gear-shifting mechanism, so it's advisable to test all gears when buying used. Although the newer models all come with CVTs, the simulated 10-speed shifting logic is much smoother than in earlier versions.
