Halderman: Thanks for writing with a good question. Without a doubt, a CVT transmission offers better fuel economy than a conventional automatic transmission. This is one of the reasons it is being used by more vehicle manufacturers. It has some advantages and disadvantages just as any transmission design.
Advantages:
- Very smooth without any jerking because it doesn't actually shift gears like a conventional automatic transmission.
- Allows the vehicle to achieve fuel economy close to that of a manual transmission.
Disadvantages:
- Unknown long-term durability. The Ford 500 did offer a CVT, but it was dropped and replaced with a six-speed automatic. I read that the warranty cost was about double that of the six-speed.
- Cannot be repaired and instead is now a replacement-only assembly, which could be costly.
What do I think about a CVT? I do like the smoothness. I do not like the high engine speed when climbing hills. I prefer a conventional automatic transmission, especially if it is a six- or more speed automatic.
Have an automotive question? Write to Jim at jim@jameshalderman.com.
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