What is the difference between CVT and manual transmission?
2 Answers
The differences between CVT and manual transmission are as follows: 1. Automatic Transmission (AT): An automatic transmission uses planetary gear mechanisms to shift gears. It can automatically change gears based on the degree of throttle pedal pressure and changes in vehicle speed. The driver only needs to control the speed by operating the accelerator pedal. Generally speaking, the commonly used automatic transmissions in cars include the following types: hydraulic automatic transmission, hydrostatic automatic transmission, electric automatic transmission, stepped mechanical automatic transmission, and continuously variable mechanical automatic transmission (CVT). 2. Manual Transmission (MT): A manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox, requires the driver to manually shift the gear lever to change the gear engagement position inside the transmission, thereby altering the gear ratio to achieve the shifting effect. The gear lever can only be shifted when the clutch is depressed. If the driver is skilled, a car equipped with a manual transmission can accelerate and overtake faster than an automatic transmission car and is also more fuel-efficient.
The biggest difference between CVT continuously variable transmission and manual transmission lies in the power delivery method. Having driven various cars, manual transmissions require you to manually operate the clutch and gear stick, shifting gears according to different speeds and road conditions. It's like playing a musical instrument - you directly control engine RPMs, enabling precise acceleration and engine braking, but beginners often stall or experience jerky shifts.
CVT, on the other hand, has no fixed gears. It continuously adjusts the gear ratio via two conical pulleys and a steel belt, always maintaining the most efficient RPM range. The driving experience is ultra-smooth without any manual transmission shift shock. However, CVT sometimes feels like coasting, lacking the engagement and control pleasure of manuals, and the engine sound isn't as exciting.
From a driving perspective, manuals suit control-oriented drivers while CVT better serves those prioritizing comfort, especially in urban traffic where automatic shifting saves considerable effort. Technically, CVTs have more complex structures with potentially higher maintenance costs, but modern models optimize them for better fuel efficiency.
