Do you want to know the difference between CVT vs Automatic transmission? CVT is an abbreviation for continuously variable transmission, and it is a form of automatic transmission with an uncountable number of gears/speeds. The automatic transmission has a countable number of gears/speeds, which usually range from 6 to 10. When driving, the CVT and the automatic transmission gearbox drive and handle almost similarly but you will notice very big differences.
CVT VS Automatic Transmission Truck
When buying a new truck, you have to decide whether to choose a CVT or automatic transmission. The CVT and the automatic transmission have pros and cons. This guide will compare CVT vs Automatic transmission to aid you in making good decisions on the one to choose when buying a truck.
Advantages of a CVT
Fuel Economy
Most trucks fitted with the CVT transmission get better fuel mileage than those with manual or automatic transmissions. The CVT is not limited or fixed to several gear ratios, and they operate at the peak of a truck and the driving conditions. The CVT will attain its peak fuel economy and waste less energy than the other transmissions.
It is lighter
The CVT is very light because they do not have many moving parts compared to the conventional automatic transmission. It will save you some money at the gas station, and the lightweight makes it faster.
Smoother Operation
The CVT trucks are very smooth and offer a comfortable ride. They do not have any hard gears to change when driving. On rare occasions, will you experience CVT jerking while in motion.
Disadvantages of CVT
Poor Driving Experience
The CVT is the worst choice for drivers who love experiencing how the gears change and how the engine sounds.
Loud
The CVT is louder as compared to the normal automatic transmission. You can quickly notice the sound of the belt as it changes the gear ratio.
Expensive
The cost of repairing a CVT is relatively high compared to an automatic or manual transmission. They need calibration in case of service, which makes them challenging to repair or service.
Advantages of Automatic Transmission
Better Engagement
Driving an automatic transmission gives a better feel and is more engaging than CVT.
Relatively Cheap to Repair
The cost of repairing an automatic transmission is lower than CVT, and they never need intense calibration during servicing.
Disadvantages of Automatic Transmission
Less Fuel Economical
The automatic transmission depends on gears, the dependence on gears makes it at a less than optimal gear ratio, and it will consume more fuel than the CVT.
More Emissions
On most occasions, the automatic transmission never runs at an ideal RPM, producing more emissions. In case you need that truck with fewer exhaust emissions but are not ready to buy an electric truck. You should opt for a CVT.
Conclusion
Automatic transmission is widespread in both new and used trucks, and the popularity of the CVT is growing. The growing popularity of the CVT is because they perform better than and are fuel-economical compared to an automatic transmission. The CVT is better for the environment, even though some people like to have the feel of driving an automatic transmission truck.