Continuously Variable Transmission = Less Gas and a Smoother Ride
Sometimes understanding all of the cutting-edge technology in Subaru vehicles can be overwhelming, so Herb Gordon Subaru is here to help break it down. One of the latest innovations you'll find in Subaru vehicles is called a"Continuously Variable Transmission" (or "CVT"), which improves fuel economy and vehicle stability through changes made to a vehicle's transmission.
Let's take a closer look at how a CVT works.
How It Works
Traditional automatic transmissions use a series of gears to transfer power from the engine to the wheels. The gears have different sizes, and some transmissions have more gears than others. An automatic transmission knows when to shift from one size gear to another at different times depending on power output and speed.
A CVT breaks out of the mold by replacing those gears with a belt and pulley system. Thanks to a durable, flexible belt and pulleys that can shift to change the amount of surface area meeting the belt, a CVT essentially results in a system with "infinite" gears.
Better Fuel Efficiency
Every engine has a range where the power transferred to the wheels is most efficient for different speeds and driving conditions. For example, maintaining high speed while cruising on a flat road is different than while climbing a steep hill. A CVT finds the most efficient range for any vehicle in any given driving condition and keeps the engine running within this range, improving fuel economy.
A Smoother Ride
When a traditional automatic transmission shifts between gears, the shifting creates a brief interruption in the power transferring from the engine to the wheels, which in turn causes a short but noticeable jolt in the ride. Since a Continuously Variable Transmission “continuously varies” instead of shifts, there is no jolt, which means passengers enjoy a smooth, jolt-free ride.
Of course, even this explanation doesn’t compare to the real thing. To schedule a test drive and experience the smooth ride of any Subaru CVT-equipped models, visit Herb Gordon Subaru in person or contact us today. We can’t wait to show you!