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You may have come across “CVT” under the transmission column of a spec chart while doing online research for your next new car. But, what is a CVT transmission? The service team at Berge Toyota can tell you all about what is a CVT, how it works, and why they’re a great option for certain Mesa drivers.
“CVT” stands for continuously variable transmission. Other names for a CVT include shiftless transmission, step-less transmission, or pulley transmission.
If you’re unfamiliar with this type of transmission, you’d be hesitant to purchase that new car you are considering if it comes with a CVT. A CVT falls into the automatic transmission category but instead of fixed gear ratios, it features infinitely variable ratios, two pulleys, and an interceding chain or belt. The variable ratios are infinite between two set points. This helps keep the engine at the optimal rpm (revolutions per minute) for either fuel efficiency or acceleration power.
CVTs are commonly found in compact, fuel-efficient vehicles — not in performance cars. A CVT is a good choice if you’re looking to get around Mesa on less fuel.
So, now that you know what a CVT transmission is, how does a CVT work? Traditional automatic and manual transmissions use gears to route power from the engine to the drive wheels. Continuously variable transmissions don’t have multiple gears to shift between. Instead of gears, CVTs use cone-shaped pulleys that are connected by an intervening belt or chain.
One side of each pulley is fixed, while the other side of each pulley moves via a hydraulic cylinder. The cylinder alters the distance between the pulley’s two sides. The moving side of one pulley moves opposite of the moving side of the other pulley. This varies the gear ratio and keeps the chain or belt taunt. The movement of the pulleys is controlled by a computer and doesn’t require a manual shifter or shift paddles.
Fuel efficiency is the primary benefit of a CVT. By constantly varying the gear ratios, a CVT keeps the engine operating at the ideal speed for fuel economy or acceleration, unlike traditional transmissions that require the engine to move up and down the powerband to shift into higher or lower gears. Additionally, the simpler design of a CVT means there are fewer moving parts, which makes them less expensive to produce and repair than a traditional transmission.
If you’re shopping for a Toyota with a CVT near Chandler and Gilbert, your search will end here at Berge Toyota! The new Toyota lineup currently offers several models with a standard or available CVT, including:
If you’re ready to cut fuel costs, one of our Toyota models with a continuously variable transmission is a smart move. If you have additional questions about CVTs or how they work, or you’re interested in test-driving a vehicle with one, contact us today! You can also browse our online pre-owned or new car specials to save more on a new Toyota for sale in Mesa!
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