What do MT, AT, and CVT mean in transmissions?

[LaLevi]

AT stands for automatic transmission, MT stands for manual transmission, and CVT stands for continuously variable transmission. AT: The full English name of AT is Automatic Transmission, which is an automatic gearbox. The automatic transmission consists of a torque converter, planetary gears, and a hydraulic control system, achieving speed and torque changes through hydraulic power transmission and gear combinations. MT: The full English name of MT manual transmission is Manual Transmission, which is a manual gearbox. It requires manually shifting the gear lever to change the gear engagement position inside the transmission, altering the gear ratio to achieve speed changes. CVT: The full English name of CVT continuously variable transmission is Continuous Variable Transmission, which is a mechanical continuously variable transmission.

[Theodore]

Among the common types of transmissions, there are three main ones: MT (Manual Transmission), AT (Automatic Transmission), and CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). MT relies entirely on the driver to press the clutch and shift gears manually, with a gear lever located under the steering wheel, requiring the driver to decide when to shift. Its advantages include a simple and reliable mechanical structure, high transmission efficiency for better fuel economy, and lower repair costs. However, in city traffic jams, constantly pressing the clutch with the left foot can be very tiring. AT replaces the clutch with a torque converter and uses computer control for automatic gear shifting, which is now the most common type in most cars, offering a hassle-free driving experience. The downside is that it consumes more fuel than manual transmissions and has higher maintenance costs. CVT is the most unique, using two sets of conical pulleys and a steel belt for transmission, with no fixed gears, hence the name continuously variable transmission. It provides exceptionally smooth acceleration, similar to an electric vehicle, and offers low fuel consumption. However, during rapid acceleration, the engine tends to produce a whining sound, and the steel belt may slip over time. Many Japanese family cars now use CVT, making it a great choice for those prioritizing comfort and fuel efficiency.

[HeidiRose]

When I first got my car, I specifically researched transmissions. With MT manual transmissions, you need to coordinate your hands and feet—the clutch, throttle, and gear lever work together to deliver driving fun, especially on mountain roads. AT automatic transmissions are much more convenient; just shift to D and go. It’s a lifesaver in traffic, freeing up your left foot, making it ideal for daily commutes. CVT transmissions are the most fascinating, using a steel belt instead of gears for ultra-smooth shifting—you barely feel any jerks in the car. However, those who love stomping on the throttle might find the response a bit sluggish. Each of the three transmissions has its own strengths: manual transmissions are affordable and durable but require more effort, automatics strike a balanced and practical approach, while CVTs offer comfort but fall short in spirited driving. Nowadays, some high-end cars even use dual-clutch transmissions, which shift faster but still lag behind traditional automatics in terms of reliability.

[StLawson]

Simply put, a transmission is like the gear-shifting system when riding a bicycle. A manual transmission (MT) is like an old-fashioned bicycle, where you have to manually shift the chain to change gears—it offers strong control but requires more effort. An automatic transmission (AT) is like a smart bicycle that automatically shifts gears for you while you pedal. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) is the most unique, resembling two cone-shaped wheels connected by a rubber band; moving their positions enables stepless speed variation. Manual transmissions have the simplest structure, just gear sets and a clutch, making them durable and fuel-efficient. Automatic transmissions add a torque converter and planetary gear sets, providing smoother driving but with slightly higher fuel consumption. CVTs use a steel belt and cone-shaped wheels with variable groove widths for continuous shifting, delivering the smoothest ride and best fuel efficiency, though they can't handle very high torque. Nowadays, hybrid models often use E-CVTs, which are a completely different system.