What are the advantages of Chery's 9-speed CVT over the 7-speed?
4 Answers
When purchasing a car, consumers mainly consider factors such as the vehicle price, reliability of the core components, comfort, space, fuel consumption, and more. The Wanliyang 9-speed CVT, supported by Chery's core technology, has already been installed in many popular domestic models (such as Geely's Vision SUV, Emgrand GL, and Emgrand GS), so there's no need to worry about quality issues. The advantages of the 9-speed CVT are as follows: CVT Characteristics: It inherits the characteristics of CVT, providing smooth driving without jerks, though it slightly lacks driving excitement. However, it excels in smoothness and low fuel consumption, making it an excellent choice for family use. Due to the structure of the transmission, it is advisable to avoid heavy throttle starts when using a CVT to prevent belt slippage, which could affect transmission efficiency and even the lifespan of the transmission. Fuel Consumption: In terms of fuel consumption, the simulated 7-speed, which is the previous generation product of the 9-speed, averages around 6 liters in suburban areas, over 8 liters in congested areas, and as low as 3.7 liters on highways.
Driving a Chery with a 9-speed CVT feels smoother and more natural compared to the 7-speed version. Having driven many Chery CVT models, I found the 9-speed variant delivers nearly imperceptible shifts during acceleration due to its additional simulated virtual gears, making power delivery as seamless as silk. In stop-and-go city traffic, it eliminates the occasional slight hesitation present in the 7-speed, making daily commutes more effortless—especially for drivers like me who enjoy driving but dislike jolts. During highway overtakes, the response is quicker, with engine rpm rising steadily, avoiding the abruptness of traditional automatic transmissions. Leveraging the inherent advantages of CVT, the 9-speed can fine-tune gear ratios to enhance overall stability, potentially saving some fuel costs. Of course, this depends on Chery's tuning, and in my personal experience, it elevates the driving pleasure.
From an economic perspective, I prefer the Chery 9-speed CVT for its superior fuel efficiency. The two additional virtual gears expand the gear ratio range, allowing the engine to operate at optimal RPMs across both high and low speeds. My real-world tests show the 9-speed consumes about 0.5 liters less fuel than the 7-speed in mixed driving conditions, translating to significant long-term savings. While CVTs are inherently efficient, the 9-speed's optimization further reduces unnecessary power loss. Daily driving feels noticeably smoother, especially in traffic congestion where fuel waste is minimized. If cost-efficiency matters to you, the 9-speed represents a smarter investment choice.
For someone who prioritizes comfort, the Chery 9-speed CVT shows significant advantages over the 7-speed in terms of smoothness and noise control. The speed changes during acceleration and deceleration are seamless, with almost no shaking or lag, greatly reducing back fatigue after long drives. The cabin environment is also quieter, free from clicking noises that interfere with music. This enhances the overall travel experience.
