
The Wlander's transmission is belt-driven. The Wlander is equipped with a 10-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT), which can simulate 10 gears. It incorporates a set of starting gears, utilizing gear drive when in low gears (1st and 2nd), while employing belt drive for gears 3 to 10, ensuring smoother power delivery. Transmission Maintenance Methods: Regular Transmission Inspection: It is essential to regularly check the transmission fluid level to ensure it remains within the specified range. Top up the fluid as needed based on actual working conditions, ensuring the new fluid is of the same type. When changing the fluid, drain the old fluid while the transmission is operating and clean the system thoroughly. Regularly inspect the working condition of the transmission gears to ensure optimal meshing between gears, clean them periodically, and maintain proper alignment between gears and shafts. Inspect Connection Points: During routine maintenance, examine the condition of various connection points in the transmission to promptly identify issues such as looseness, wear, or damage. Tighten any loose connections immediately and repair or replace damaged parts as necessary. Regularly check for oil leaks at the shaft-end seals and external joints, replacing failed seals and gaskets promptly.

As a long-time enthusiast delving into automotive technology, I've found that the hybrid version of the Wildlander indeed does not use a steel belt transmission. It employs Toyota's patented e-CVT system, which primarily relies on planetary gear sets to coordinate the power output between the engine and the electric motor, rather than a steel belt sliding mechanism. This design ensures an exceptionally smooth acceleration process, free from the occasional jerks associated with traditional CVTs, making it ideal for daily urban commuting. Steel belt transmissions are typically found in conventional CVT gearboxes and are prone to wear under high loads, requiring more frequent maintenance. The Wildlander Hybrid's powertrain, on the other hand, is more durable, reducing maintenance hassles. The regular gasoline-powered Wildlander might come equipped with a Direct Shift-CVT, which includes a reinforced steel belt, but the hybrid version is undoubtedly the superior choice. In summary, the e-CVT not only improves fuel efficiency but also enhances driving comfort, making it a wise option for those seeking a hassle-free experience.

I drive a Wildlander Hybrid, which is over two years old, and the transmission has always performed very stably. When someone asked if it uses a steel belt drive, I looked it up and found out the answer is no—Toyota's e-CVT operates through a gear mechanism, avoiding the wear-prone issues associated with steel belts. At startup, the motor quietly delivers power, and the engine seamlessly kicks in, making the drive feel incredibly smooth. Gasoline models occasionally use CVT transmissions with steel belts, which might introduce slight noise. But in hybrids, this system combines fuel efficiency with low maintenance costs, keeping fuel consumption around 6 liters per 100 kilometers. In practical use, I recommend new owners pay more attention to regular maintenance, such as fluid changes, to extend the transmission's lifespan. Even on long trips, there's no worry about sudden failures.

With a decade of experience in auto repair shops, I've handled numerous Highlander cases. Its hybrid transmission is entirely different from the steel belt-driven type, featuring an e-CVT structure that relies on gears rather than steel belts. Steel belt systems are prone to deformation and breakage under repeated gear shifts, whereas e-CVT proves more robust and reliable with minimal failure rates. For gasoline-powered Highlanders equipped with CVT, pay close attention to the steel belt's condition, especially after aggressive driving to check for wear. The advantage of e-CVT lies in its low maintenance needs—routine checks on oil pressure and filters suffice. Addressing your query, hybrid models indeed don't employ steel belt design, making them a hassle-free choice. Schedule a comprehensive inspection every two years to prevent minor issues from escalating.

People often ask me about the transmission concerns with the Wildlander. In fact, the hybrid version does not use a steel belt drive at all. Toyota's e-CVT technology controls the power flow through internal gears, completely bypassing the drawbacks of steel belts and avoiding risks like slippage or overheating. Steel belts are commonly found in conventional CVT transmissions and are prone to failure at high RPMs. The e-CVT in the Wildlander Hybrid ensures high efficiency and safe driving. If considering the gasoline version, it may be equipped with a CVT with a steel belt or an automatic transmission, each with its own pros and cons. Understanding this can help reduce misunderstandings. This design enhances the vehicle's overall reliability, and I often remind customers to pay attention to details like air conditioning settings to optimize fuel consumption. Prioritize hybrid models when choosing a car.


