Is a CVT Transmission Manual or Automatic?
3 Answers
CVT transmission belongs to the automatic transmission category, and it is also a continuously variable transmission. Continuously variable transmission is one type of automatic transmission, which refers to a transmission system that can continuously obtain any transmission ratio within the range. Through continuously variable transmission, the optimal matching between the transmission system and the engine operating conditions can be achieved. The advantages of CVT transmission include the following 4 points: 1. High fuel economy: CVT can achieve continuously variable transmission within the range, thereby obtaining the optimal matching between the transmission system and the engine operating conditions, improving the overall fuel economy of the vehicle; 2. Good power performance: Due to the continuously variable transmission characteristics of CVT, it can obtain the maximum transmission ratio of reserve power, so the power performance of CVT is better than that of mechanical transmission (MT) and automatic transmission (AT); 3. Low emissions: The wide working range of CVT speed ratio can make the engine work under optimal conditions, thereby improving the combustion process and reducing exhaust emissions; 4. Low cost: The CVT system has a simple structure and fewer parts than AT. Once automobile manufacturers start mass production, the cost of CVT will be lower than that of AT.
CVT transmissions fall under the category of automatic transmissions. I've driven quite a few cars with this type of transmission, and indeed, there's no need to press a clutch or shift gears. The structure of this transmission is quite unique, using a steel belt and conical pulleys instead of traditional gears, allowing for seamless ratio changes, which results in exceptionally smooth acceleration, much like the driving feel of an electric vehicle. However, unlike conventional AT automatic transmissions, CVTs don't have fixed gear ratios, so many people find the engine sound a bit unusual when they first drive one. Nowadays, many Japanese cars use CVTs mainly for fuel efficiency, but it's worth noting that the steel belt might slip during rapid acceleration. If manual transmissions are like stair steps, then CVTs are like gentle slope elevators—both are different branches of the automatic transmission family.
When I was changing cars, I specifically researched transmissions. CVT is essentially a type of automatic transmission. Its biggest advantage is fuel efficiency, as the steel belt drive structure keeps the engine always at the optimal RPM. You don't feel any gear shift jerks, making it particularly suitable for city traffic jams. However, it's not as powerful as dual-clutch transmissions for off-roading or aggressive driving. Nowadays, many family cars in the 100,000-yuan range like the Sylphy and Corolla use CVTs, which are only slightly more expensive than manual transmissions but much more convenient. During maintenance, it's important to use the specific type of transmission fluid required—my neighbor once used the wrong oil, which led to steel belt wear.
