What does CVT continuously variable transmission simulating 8 gears mean?
3 Answers
CVT transmission is translated as continuously variable transmission, which theoretically has no gears. The 8-speed refers to simulated gears. The following is an introduction to CVT simulated transmission: CVT is a continuously variable transmission: CVT is a continuously variable transmission, which theoretically has an infinite number of gear ratios. To achieve the function of manual and automatic integration, the gears in manual mode are simulated. Strictly speaking, there is no difference between the two, except that the latter has 8 speeds in manual mode, while the former does not specify how many gears are simulated. There is not much difference in driving compared to traditional automatic transmissions. Since it is a continuously variable transmission, there are theoretically an infinite number of forward gears. The concept of CVT and manual-automatic transmission: CVT and manual-automatic transmission complement each other as concepts. It should be the difference between manual-automatic transmission and CVT simulating 8 gears. These are two transmission modes. The smoothness and fuel economy of CVT cannot be matched by AT transmissions, but the strength of power transmission and the ability to withstand maximum peak torque are not very high, and the extreme acceleration capability is not as good as AT models. The so-called 8 gears are just simulated gears. Manual-automatic transmission means that a manual mode is added to the automatic transmission, allowing manual operation of gear shifting (+/-).
When researching automotive transmission systems, I discovered that the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with simulated 8-speed refers to the fact that while the CVT itself provides seamless, stepless gear ratio changes without fixed gears, manufacturers have programmed 8 preset simulated shift points through electronic control software. This makes the system shift like a traditional stepped transmission during acceleration, giving drivers a sense of gear changes. This design primarily enhances driving engagement—some find pure CVT acceleration too smooth or even monotonous, while simulated shifts add rhythm and fun to driving. You can operate it manually via steering wheel paddles in manual mode, mimicking the experience of driving a manual transmission. However, it doesn't alter the fundamental working principle of CVT; it merely adds virtual gears to optimize engine RPM management, improving fuel efficiency and noise control. In practical use, such as during highway cruising or hill climbing, this simulation better adapts to varying road conditions. Having test-driven models with this feature, I found them more interactive than standard CVTs, though fuel consumption differences were minimal. If you seek driving excitement, it's worth trying—but don't expect the precision of a dual-clutch transmission.
I've been driving for over a decade. The CVT with simulated 8-speed means the car has 8 virtual gears internally. When driving, the system simulates the feeling of traditional gear shifts – for example, you'll feel slight jerks during acceleration to mimic gear changes, adding some fun to the driving experience. I once tried a Toyota with paddle shifters for manual gear changes and found it quite thrilling, almost like playing a video game. Originally, CVT is super smooth with continuous transmission, but some people find it too bland and lacking realism. The simulated gears fill this gap, making daily commutes less monotonous. It also helps manage engine RPMs, avoiding high-rev fuel consumption while maintaining stability in traffic jams. However, don't rely too much on this feature since they're not real gears – the inherent smoothness advantage of pure CVT remains. I recommend test driving multiple options when car shopping to see what suits your personal preference.
