The two most common types of transmissions you’ll find in modern cars are manual, in which the driver manually switches gears, and automatic, in which the car switches gears automatically. There is a third type of transmission, however, which is steadily growing in popularity in Toyota vehicles – CVT, or continuously variable transmission. But what exactly is CVT, and is it the best option for you and your car? Let’s look at the advantages of a continuously variable transmission.
Instead of having multiple gears like a manual or automatic transmission, CVT has just a single universal gear for all speeds. This means you won’t feel any gears shifting when you accelerate like you would with an automatic transmission. Once your engine speed has reached 5,000 rpm, the engine remains at this speed no matter how fast or slow you’re driving afterwards.
This absence of gear shifting contributes to some of the advantages of a continuously variable transmission. You’ll find greater fuel-efficiency in a car with CVT – for example, the 2016 Toyota Corolla LE Eco comes to 42 mpg, which is phenomenal for a non-hybrid. You’ll also be able to accelerate faster when your engine doesn’t have to shift gears at higher speeds.
See for yourself the difference that a continuously variable transmission can make. Visit us at Peruzzi Toyota and test drive a car equipped with CVT, such as the 2017 Corolla LE. While you’re here, feel free to check out our impressive inventory of over 600 new and certified pre-owned vehicles as well. We look forward to seeing you!
