What is a CVT Transmission?

You’ve probably heard the term “CVT” in the description of a vehicle you’re thinking about buying or leasing. But what in the world is a CVT, you might be wondering? Our service experts here at Town North Mazda are happy to fill you in on the ABCs of CVT, or continuously variable transmissions. So keep reading to find out answers, or contact us anytime with additional questions about automotive technologies!

More About CVTs 

“CVT” is an acronym for continuously variable transmission, as you’ve likely now figured out. CVTs are also sometimes known as other names, though, including:

• Shiftless transmission
• Pulley transmission
• Stepless transmission

You may be hesitant to choose a CVT-equipped vehicle if you’re not aware of what it is. But you shouldn’t be. CVTs are essentially automatic transmissions that exchange fixed-gear ratios for infinitely variable ratios, pulleys, and an interceding chain or belt. One of the major advantages of this setup is a vast increase in fuel economy!

How Do CVT Transmissions Work?

Most automatic transmissions work by using a multitude of different gears with fixed gear ratios. When you start to reach a certain RPM and your vehicle drones, it’s time for the automatic transmission to shift gears. Continuously variable transmissions, on the other hand, do not have high and low gears to shift between. Instead, they utilize cone-shaped pulleys that are connected by an intervening belt or chain. 

The fixed side remains still. 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 how fast you’re driving. Accordingly, shifting with paddles is not necessary. Some vehicles do however have CVTs with a simulated manual mode for increased driving engagement.

What are the Benefits of a CVT?

The benefits to a CVT transmission include:

• Higher fuel Efficiency: Because a CVT doesn’t have to switch between gears, the engine can operate within the best possible power range without using more fuel than it needs. 
• Simpler Design: CVTs are simpler in design than automatic transmissions or manual transmissions. 
• Fewer Breakable Parts: CVTs aren’t composed of as many gears. When it’s time for transmission service, you can probably expect fewer parts to break inside CVTs!

What are the Drawbacks of a CVT

The drawbacks to a CVT, and the reason you’d be hard-pressed to find one in a Mazda include:

• Less Engaging Drive: CVTs often offer a less engaging driving experience than automatics or manuals given the infinite gear ratio. Some drivers also find them “droney” or “noisy.”
• Expensive to Repair or Replace: CVTs have fewer parts, but this means when things go wrong, it is highly likely that you’ll need to shell out for more expensive repairs.
• Potentially Greater Likelihood of Total vs. Partial Failure: Because the belts that operate CVTs are subjects to so much wear and tear, although they’re designed for long life and are quite durable, if and when they do break, you’re more likely to have a complete transmission failure than a partial one or a more easily-repairable fix.

Do Mazda Vehicles Utilize CVT Transmissions?

Do Mazda models offer CVT transmissions? At the time of this writing, Mazda models come equipped with automatic transmissions or manual transmissions. For more current information, contact our service department.