What cars have a continuously variable transmission

## Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs)

A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is an automatic transmission that can change seamlessly through an infinite number of gear ratios within a given range. This is in contrast to traditional automatic transmissions, which use a fixed number of gears. CVTs are often found in smaller vehicles, such as economy cars and hybrids, due to their fuel efficiency and smooth operation.

### How CVTs Work

CVTs use a pair of variable-diameter pulleys connected by a belt or chain. The pulleys are shaped like cones, and their diameters can be changed by hydraulic or electric actuators. As the diameters of the pulleys change, the effective gear ratio of the transmission changes.

In a typical CVT, one pulley is connected to the engine and the other is connected to the wheels. When the engine speed increases, the diameter of the engine pulley decreases and the diameter of the wheels pulley increases, resulting in a lower gear ratio. When the engine speed decreases, the opposite occurs, resulting in a higher gear ratio.

CVTs can also be used to provide engine braking, by increasing the diameter of the engine pulley and decreasing the diameter of the wheels pulley. This causes the engine to work against the transmission, slowing the vehicle down.

### Advantages of CVTs

There are several advantages to using a CVT over a traditional automatic transmission. These include:

Fuel efficiency: CVTs are more fuel-efficient than traditional automatic transmissions because they can operate at the most efficient engine speed for any given driving condition.
Smooth operation: CVTs provide a very smooth driving experience, as there are no gear changes to feel.
Compact size: CVTs are more compact than traditional automatic transmissions, making them ideal for use in smaller vehicles.
Reduced emissions: CVTs can help to reduce emissions by keeping the engine running at the most efficient speed.

### Disadvantages of CVTs

There are also some disadvantages to using a CVT, including:

Cost: CVTs are typically more expensive than traditional automatic transmissions.
Reliability: CVTs are not as reliable as traditional automatic transmissions, and they may require more frequent maintenance.
Power loss: CVTs can experience some power loss due to slippage between the belt or chain and the pulleys.
Noise: CVTs can be noisy, especially at high engine speeds.

### Cars with CVTs

CVTs are used in a wide variety of vehicles, including:

Economy cars: CVTs are commonly found in economy cars, such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
Hybrids: CVTs are often used in hybrid vehicles, such as the Toyota Prius and Ford C-Max.
Luxury cars: Some luxury cars, such as the Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, offer CVTs as an option.
SUVs: Some SUVs, such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, offer CVTs as an option.
Trucks: Some trucks, such as the Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma, offer CVTs as an option.

### Conclusion

CVTs are a type of automatic transmission that can change seamlessly through an infinite number of gear ratios within a given range. They offer several advantages over traditional automatic transmissions, including fuel efficiency, smooth operation, and compact size. However, they also have some disadvantages, such as cost, reliability, power loss, and noise.