What is a CVT Transmission?

When car shopping, the type of transmission you’re looking for can factor into your purchase. You might have seen the term “CVT” somewhere on your shopping journey. 

What is a CVT transmission? The service team at Aristocrat Motors can tell you all about CVTs, how they work, and why they’re great options for certain Leavenworth drivers. Read our “What is CVT” guide to learn more!

What is a CVT?

CVT is short for continuously variable transmission. CVTs are known by plenty of other names as well, including a shiftless transmission, stepless transmission, or pulley transmission. You’ll also see it called a CVT transmission even though that’s redundant. Gone are the days of manual versus automatic transmissions. Now, you’ve got other types of transmissions, including a CVT. 

Essentially, a CVT is a type of automatic transmission that swaps fixed-gear ratios for infinitely variable ratios, two pulleys, and an interceding chain or belt. Usually, you’ll find CVTs in compact, fuel-efficient vehicles and not so much in high-performance vehicles and sports cars. If you’re looking to get around Overland Park on less fuel, a vehicle with a CVT is a good choice for you. 

How Does a CVT Work?

Ordinary transmissions move vehicles forward by using a series of different gears. Continuously variable transmissions, however, are unique because they don’t have high and low gears to shift between. Instead of gear systems, CVTs use cone-shaped pulleys connected by an intervening belt or chain. 

The fixed side of each pulley remains still, while the other side moves according to your speed using a hydraulic cylinder. The cylinder alters the distance between the pulley’s two sides, so the belt moves higher or lower depending on your speed. A CVT doesn’t require manual shifting or shifting paddles for your Kansas City drives. 

What Are The Benefits of a CVT?

Fuel efficiency is the top major benefit of a continuously variable transmission. Because a CVT doesn’t have to switch between gears, the engine operates within the optimal power range without using more fuel than it needs. The second major benefit comes from a simpler design and fewer moving parts. CVTs don’t have various gears. When it’s time for transmission service, you can expect a more affordable repair bill than you’d get if your car had a standard transmission. 

What Models Offer a CVT?

Look for fuel-efficient cars, trucks, and SUVs with a CVT. For Aristocrat Motors, you’ll need to explore our used vehicle inventory for a vehicle that has a CVT connected to its powerplant. You won’t be disappointed! 

Find a Used Vehicle With a CVT at Aristocrat Motors! 

Now that you know what CVT is, what can you do next? When you’re trying to save on fuel, investing in a used vehicle with a continuously variable transmission is a smart move. Contact us or call 913-404-5862 to test drive a vehicle on our lot. If you need transmission service, our qualified technicians can help with that. We also take care of other routine maintenance such as tires, oil changes, and more. Look over our service specials to see if you can save money on your next car repair in Merriam.