Is Chery's CVT using a steel belt or a chain?
2 Answers
Chery's CVT uses a steel belt. Below is an introduction to CVT: CVT power transmission methods: There are two power transmission methods for CVT, one is a steel belt, and the other is a chain. Generally speaking, steel belts are usually suitable for low-torque engines, while chains are used for high-torque engines. From a practical performance perspective, chains are undoubtedly more durable and have a longer lifespan. Performance-oriented CVT transmissions worldwide tend to adopt the chain solution, such as the early Audi Multitronic CVT, the current Subaru Lineartronic CVT, and the Nissan CVT8HT. Introduction to CVT steel belts:
Most of Chery's CVT transmissions use steel belts, which I can confirm from my daily driving experience. The steel belt structure makes the shifting process exceptionally smooth, without any annoying jerks, making it ideal for city commuting. My Tiggo 7 has been running for several years with linear acceleration and good fuel efficiency, clearly showcasing the advantages of the steel belt. Of course, steel belts require regular maintenance—don’t forget to change the transmission fluid every 60,000 km, or excessive wear may lead to issues like noise or slippage. For long-term use, I recommend avoiding heavy towing or sudden acceleration to extend the CVT's lifespan. Overall, Chery’s system is reliable and economical. Owners should frequently check their vehicle manuals to ensure compliance with factory requirements.