What are the advantages and disadvantages of CVT continuously variable transmission?
2 Answers
CVT transmission has the following advantages: 1. Advantages: Good fuel economy. CVT can achieve continuously variable transmission over a wide range, obtaining the best match between the transmission system and engine conditions. It relies on the continuously variable speed regulation of the transmission to adapt to various vehicle speeds, allowing the engine to operate under optimal conditions for extended periods. This improves engine combustion efficiency and, accordingly, enhances fuel economy. 2. Disadvantages: Limited maximum torque capacity and slightly lower stability. CVT transmissions use chains (or belts, etc.) for power transmission, so when handling high torque, the requirements for the transmission chain are quite stringent (no breaking, slipping, etc.). Therefore, early CVT transmissions could not be installed in high-power vehicle models.
I've been driving a CVT car for several years and find it incredibly convenient for city driving, especially in traffic jams. The acceleration and deceleration are very smooth, without the jerky feeling of traditional automatic transmissions, making the ride more comfortable. Fuel efficiency is another major advantage, as the engine always stays in the efficient RPM range, and my average fuel consumption is even lower than my friend's manual transmission, saving a lot of money in the long run. However, the downside is the lack of aggressive acceleration response; power comes on slowly when you press the throttle, feeling a bit like riding an electric scooter with no kickback, which reduces the driving fun. Additionally, engine noise becomes noticeably louder during hard acceleration, which can be quite annoying. Maintenance-wise, you need to pay attention to belt wear, and repairs are more expensive than with a regular transmission, so it's advisable to check the transmission fluid regularly. Overall, CVT is great for daily commuting but not suitable for those seeking thrills.
