How is the quality of Chery's 9-speed CVT?
3 Answers
Chery's 9-speed CVT demonstrates good quality with profound R&D heritage, offering a superior driving experience. Below is detailed information about automotive transmissions: Overview: A transmission is a device that alters speed ratios and motion direction, typically positioned between the clutch and central drive. It can modify torque, speed, and motion direction transmitted from the driving shaft to the driven shaft according to varying working conditions. Gear-driven transmissions generally consist of a housing and multiple gears. Classification: Automatic transmissions have become mainstream internationally, primarily including AT, AMT, CVT, and DCT types. Early AT transmission systems mainly used 4AT configurations. AT transmissions employ electronically controlled automatic operating systems to achieve gear shifting. CVT represents a true continuously variable transmission with fewer components and compact size. DCT utilizes dual clutches.
I've been driving the Chery Arrizo 5 equipped with that 9-speed CVT for over half a year now. Overall, it feels quite stable, with exceptionally smooth acceleration and no jerking, making it very worry-free when taking the kids to school. In terms of quality, there haven't been any major issues. On the highway, the fuel consumption is about 6 liters per 100 kilometers, much more fuel-efficient than my old car. However, maintenance is crucial—CVT fluid needs to be changed every 40,000 kilometers, otherwise, the steel belt can wear out easily, leading to increased noise. Some car owners have complained about a few noises during cold starts, probably due to oil pressure issues, but fortunately, it doesn't affect driving. I recommend regular checks on the oil quality. Chery parts are cheap, and repairs aren't difficult. If you plan to drive it for over five years, replace parts when needed without delay. In short, for daily commuting, it offers high cost-performance and durability, definitely worth a try.
From a technical perspective, Chery's 9-speed CVT adopts a simulated gear design to reduce the slippage sensation common in traditional CVTs, which is quite a clever solution. The core reliability lies in the steel belt's power transmission, delivering smooth and fuel-efficient performance under normal driving conditions. Compared to Nissan's CVT, Chery's falls slightly short in response speed, especially noticeable during uphill climbs with evident lag, but it performs adequately in urban driving. Minor issues like delayed throttle response or occasional noises may occur, but most can be resolved through software updates—no need to panic. Maintenance is key: regular oil changes prevent wear and extend lifespan. Overall, it's a decent, rapidly improving option suitable for those prioritizing relaxed driving.
