When the newest version of the popular Hyundai Venue hit the market, drivers were both excited to see that all models come with a continuously variable transmission. (CVT). The Hyundai Venue used to have several options, including a manual transmission, but everything else was discontinued. The CVT is now the standard and only transmission available on Hyundai’s impressive subcompact crossover.
While CVTs have been around for a while, not everyone knows what they are, how they work, and why they are great options for your next SUVs.
Here’s everything you need to know about Hyundai’s continuously variable transmission.
How Transmissions Work
When cars were first introduced, they came with a manual transmission. Some people call these “stick shifts.” While there are plenty of vehicle models out there that still have manual options, this kind of powertrain is becoming less common.
A manual transmission has a set number of gears. The driver manually moved the transmission from one gear to the next, depending on which gear ratio they need. The gear ratio is the relationship between gears and their rotational speeds. This determines how much energy is required from the engine to go or maintain certain speeds.
An automatic transmission also has a set number of gears, but the driver doesn’t have to manually change from one to another. Instead, it uses a hydraulic system that responds to the pressure created in different driving conditions to automatically determine the gear.
A CVT is more like an automatic transmission than a manual in that it does not require input from the driver. The difference is that a CVT does not have any gears whatsoever. There are, instead, two pulleys. One pulley is connected to the engine, while the other is connected to the wheels. The width of the pulleys changes depending on the vehicle’s power demands. This allows for an infinite number of gear ratios.
Some CVTs use rotating discs with power rollers instead of pulleys, but the end result is the same.
Advantages of a CVT
Ultimate, because the transmission doesn’t result in changing gears, drivers notice a smoother experience. This also helps the vehicle be more fuel-efficient than other options.
Those who love the mechanics of vehicles are huge fans of the CVT option. Because the transmission can continuously change its gear ratio, it is always performing at peak efficiency. Since the transmission never shifts, you don’t have to worry about bumps and jumps that you experience when actual gears are used.
Disadvantages of a CVT
Even though not having to feel the transmission change gears provides various positives, some drivers miss the connection they get to the vehicle from the sensation of moving through shift points. Those who love a sporty drive are often disappointed with CVTs.
CVTs can be a little more expensive to repair. With a reliance on belts to change gear ratios, it’s stretching can eventually occur. If the belts no longer fit properly, the transmission will completely fail.
The Future of Transmissions
With the list of incredible benefits of the CVT, it’s no wonder that the Hyundai Venue switch completely to this system. Drivers already love Hyundai vehicles for their ease of use, high fuel efficiency ratings, and performance-based engines. Adding a standard CVT into the mix just extends these benefits to new levels.
Stop by your local Hyundai dealer to take the new Hyundai Venue out for a spin. You can get an up-close feel of how the new standard CVT works.
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