What Transmission Does the Livi Use?
2 Answers
The transmission brand used in the Livi is Aisin. Established in 1969, Aisin is a world-renowned professional developer and manufacturer of automotive automatic transmissions. In the field of automotive automatic transmissions, Aisin's products hold the highest market share globally. The Livi manual transmission uses a 5-speed manual, while the automatic transmission employs a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). A CVT does not have specific gear positions; its operation is similar to an automatic transmission, but the ratio changes continuously rather than through discrete gear shifts, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted power delivery. When using the Livi's transmission daily, pay attention to the following points: Do not delay transmission fluid changes for extended periods. Prolonged intervals without changing the transmission fluid can damage internal components such as bearings and the housing. Avoid coasting in neutral for long durations. While many experienced drivers coast in neutral with manual transmissions, doing so with an automatic transmission can cause overheating and create a jolt when shifting back to Drive (D). Never shift into Drive (D) or Reverse (R) before the vehicle comes to a complete stop. Some drivers shift into reverse while still moving to showcase "smooth" operation, but this severely damages transmission gears and can lead to gear grinding over time. Avoid frequently climbing steep slopes in Drive (D). Automatic vehicles may overheat under high load or shift too early, reducing climbing power. Instead, use manual mode to lock in lower gears or switch to sport mode to protect the transmission. Do not tow the vehicle long distances. If the automatic vehicle breaks down, use a flatbed tow truck with the transmission in Neutral (N). Never tow it directly with a rope or another vehicle.
I've been driving the Livina for several years, and it has a CVT transmission, which is the common continuously variable automatic transmission. It drives very smoothly, without the gear-shifting jerks of traditional automatics, especially saving a lot of hassle during traffic jams in Beijing. The fuel efficiency is also good, with my average fuel consumption around 7 liters per 100 km, even lower on highways. However, maintenance in the later stages is important. If not well maintained, CVT transmissions can easily develop problems, such as chain wear or hydraulic fluid deterioration. It's recommended to change the transmission fluid every 40,000 kilometers. Additionally, the earlier models of the Livina also had a manual transmission option, but most people chose the automatic version for convenience. Avoid stomping on the accelerator; CVTs are suited for smooth driving.