Is CVT the Same as Automatic Transmission?

[AmyMarie]

CVT transmission is an automatic transmission. Consequences of Water Ingress: After water ingress, if the transmission fluid is not replaced promptly in a CVT transmission, residual moisture in the fluid can reduce its lubricating capability. This makes components like the chain and chain cylinder prone to wear. Additionally, changing the transmission fluid is crucial. If the fluid in the hydraulic pump is too dirty, it can also cause transmission wear. Advantages of CVT Transmission: The advantages of CVT transmission include smooth power delivery, true continuously variable transmission, simple structure, and lower cost compared to AT transmissions. However, continuously variable transmissions may lack excitement and sportiness during driving.

[McHolden]

Structurally speaking, CVT does fall under the category of automatic transmissions, but it's completely different from the conventional AT automatic transmissions we're familiar with. The most noticeable feeling when driving a CVT-equipped car is the exceptionally smooth gear shifts. The engine RPM remains very stable when accelerating, without the jerky sensation typical of traditional automatic transmissions. My own car has a CVT, and my left foot gets much easier during city traffic jams. However, the power output feels slightly weaker when climbing steep hills, and it requires special fluid for maintenance. The steel belt structure is more delicate compared to AT. Simply put, CVT is the most fuel-efficient and smoothest type among automatic transmissions, but it does lack some driving excitement.

[JaceFitz]

Although any transmission that doesn't require a clutch pedal is considered automatic, CVT completely overturns the traditional automatic transmission design concept. It relies on two sets of conical pulleys and a steel belt drive, providing continuous stepless gear changes just like a variable-speed bicycle. I've repaired many such vehicles, and the most troublesome aspect is the relatively high maintenance costs – when the steel belt wears out, the entire set must be replaced. However, for daily driving, it's truly fuel-efficient, especially in stop-and-go traffic conditions, where fuel consumption can be about 10% lower than AT transmissions. Remember not to use CVT-equipped vehicles for towing heavy loads or frequent rapid acceleration – the steel belt can't withstand overly aggressive driving styles.

[VonMila]

Let an experienced driver tell you the truth: All vehicles that don't require clutch pedals belong to the automatic transmission family! But this CVT thing is like a magic rubber band - it doesn't have fixed gears at all. I've driven Toyota's CVT, and it's indeed silk-smooth when starting from a traffic light, but if you want that acceleration push, you'll have to endure the engine roaring without much movement. Off-road enthusiasts particularly dislike CVTs, thinking they lack mechanical feel. However, for school runs and grocery shopping, you really can't fault its smoothness and fuel efficiency.