What are the common types of automatic transmissions used in cars?
3 Answers
The most common automatic transmissions mainly include the following four types: 1. AT Transmission: Officially known as a hydraulic automatic transmission, this is the most widely encountered type of automatic transmission. The advantages of AT transmissions are quite evident, offering "more direct" power delivery, but the drawbacks are also notable, such as noticeable jerking during acceleration and relatively higher fuel consumption. 2. CVT Transmission: Officially known as a continuously variable transmission, it is primarily represented by Japanese car models, with brands like Honda and Nissan commonly using CVT transmissions. The characteristics of CVT transmissions are quite distinct. Since the gear ratio is not a fixed point but a series of continuous values, the smoothness is excellent, and fuel economy is also quite outstanding. However, the drawbacks are relatively obvious, such as the lack of explosive power output in an instant, making it relatively gentle. 3. AMT Transmission: Short for automated manual transmission, AMT transmissions are a compromise between MT and AT transmissions. The advantage is relatively lower production costs, and operation is more convenient compared to manual transmissions. However, the drawbacks of AMT transmissions are more pronounced. Poor operation can easily lead to strong jerking, significantly affecting comfort, and currently, there are fewer car models equipped with AMT transmissions on the market. 4. Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT): As the name suggests, DCT uses two sets of clutches that alternate to achieve seamless gear shifting. It is further divided into dry and wet dual-clutch transmissions. DCTs offer fast gear shifting, minimal power loss during gear changes, and good fuel economy. However, the drawbacks of DCTs are more obvious, with stability in quality being a major issue.
I've been driving for most of my life and have seen many types of automatic transmissions. The most common is the traditional hydraulic automatic transmission (AT), which relies on hydraulic power for smooth and comfortable gear shifts. It's widely used in European and American cars but tends to have slightly higher fuel consumption. Then there's the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which operates like a seamless conveyor belt and is commonly found in Japanese cars. It maintains stable engine RPMs during driving, offering high fuel efficiency. The DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission) is popular in sporty models, with two clutches working alternately to deliver lightning-fast gear changes without any pause. The AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) is a simplified version based on a manual gearbox, offering low costs and suitability for budget models, though it may occasionally feel jerky. Recently, electronically controlled transmissions have emerged, combining various technologies to enhance responsiveness. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference—opt for AT or CVT if you prefer smoothness, or go for DCT if you're after a sporty drive.
As a young car enthusiast, I often research different automatic transmissions. The mainstream types include AT, CVT, DCT, and AMT. AT is traditionally reliable but consumes a bit more fuel. CVT is widely used in hybrid vehicles, offering smooth acceleration with stepless shifting and a silky driving experience. DCT is my favorite, especially in high-performance cars—the dual-clutch design makes gear shifts happen in the blink of an eye, delivering lightning-fast power response when racing. AMT is relatively cheaper, driving like a semi-automatic, making it suitable for friends on a budget. There are also newly introduced electronically assisted transmissions with better intelligent control. Each type has its own characteristics—CVT is fuel-efficient and cost-effective, DCT is thrilling and dynamic—so I choose based on my needs when picking a car.
