What Is a CVT Transmission?

If you’ve been browsing our new inventory, you might be wondering, “What is a CVT transmission?” Many Bayonne customers ask us what a CVT is, so you’re not alone, and this technology has been growing more and more popular in the market. CVT stands for “continuously variable transmission”, which is an alternative to the traditional manual or automatic design. Find out more about the Honda CVT transmission with Metro Honda, and experience this technology in action when you visit us in Jersey City.

What Is a CVT & How Is It Different?

So, what is a CVT transmission? A CVT, or continuously variable transmission, is a type of transmission that shifts automatically in non-fixed ratios. It is also known as a shiftless transmission, a stepless transmission, or a pulley transmission. What does this mean? While a 6-speed automatic transmission can shift to six different gears, a CVT doesn’t have limits.  It uses infinitely variable ratios, two pulleys, and an interceding chain or belt to optimize your fuel efficiency without the limitations of a traditional gear system. It’s found commonly on compact models that favor fuel economy, like the Honda Civic and Honda HR-V.

How Does a CVT Work?

Now you know what a CVT is, but how does it operate? Instead of using different gears to shift, the CVT uses a set of cone-shaped pulleys connected by a belt or chain. One side of the pulley remains still or fixed. The other side moves with help from a hydraulic cylinder, which adjusts your CVT based on your speed. This means the two pulleys become further away or closer together, depending on how fast you are driving through Hoboken.  This provides far more control and precision than a handful of pre-set gears, and it eliminates the need for shift paddles or gear shifts.

What Are the Benefits of a CVT?

So, why choose the Honda CVT transmission over the alternatives? The main reason is efficiency. The CVT is designed to pick the best possible power range without using more fuel than it needs, which means your fuel economy skyrockets. The second benefit is a simpler design and fewer parts. CVTs are less complicated due than an automatic transmission, which means service is often less expensive as well.  So, whether you’re out on the Newark roads or getting maintenance at our service center, you can save a lot with a CVT.

Which Honda Models Offer a CVT?

If you’re interested in trying a Honda CVT transmission, you’ll find this cutting-edge technology on a number of options in our new inventory – and you can even build your own!

• Civic Sedan
• Civic Hatchback
• Accord
• HR-V
• CR-V
• Insight
• Accord Hybrid
• Clarity Plug-In Hybrid

Find Your Next Honda at Metro Honda!

As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to give a Honda CVT a try. Get behind the wheel of a new Accord or Insight at Metro Honda, and see how the CVT feels on the Jersey City roads. Contact us with any questions about Honda technology, and check our our current Honda offers to get started shopping.