Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) have become increasingly popular in recent years, offering smooth acceleration and fuel efficiency. However, not all car manufacturers embrace this technology, and some remain steadfast in their commitment to traditional automatic and manual transmissions. Here’s a look at some prominent car manufacturers who have largely avoided CVT transmissions in their models⁚
1. BMW
BMW is renowned for its driving dynamics and performance, and they believe CVTs don’t align with their brand philosophy. While some BMW models offer automatic transmissions with multiple gears, CVTs are absent from their lineup. BMW prioritizes a sporty and engaging driving experience, and they find CVTs to be less engaging than traditional gearboxes.
2. Mercedes-Benz
Similar to BMW, Mercedes-Benz focuses on luxury and performance, and they have generally avoided CVTs. They believe that CVTs don’t provide the same level of refinement and driver engagement as their traditional 9-speed automatic transmissions. Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to delivering a premium driving experience has led them to prioritize gearboxes that offer a more nuanced and controlled driving feel.
3. Porsche
Porsche, known for its high-performance sports cars, has also largely eschewed CVTs. They are known for their sophisticated manual and dual-clutch transmissions (PDK), which provide lightning-fast shifts and precise control. Porsche’s focus on performance and driver engagement has led them to favor transmissions that deliver an exhilarating and engaging driving experience.
4. Toyota (for specific models)
While Toyota is known for its extensive use of CVTs in many of its models, they do offer some vehicles without CVT transmissions. For instance, their performance-oriented GR models, such as the GR Supra and GR Yaris, come equipped with manual and automatic transmissions with multiple gears, prioritizing driving engagement and performance over fuel efficiency.
5. Honda (for specific models)
Honda, like Toyota, has embraced CVTs in many of its models, but they offer exceptions. Their performance-oriented Civic Type R and NSX models feature manual and dual-clutch transmissions, respectively, demonstrating their commitment to providing a sporty and engaging driving experience for enthusiasts.
6. Subaru
Subaru, known for its all-wheel drive (AWD) technology, predominantly uses manual and automatic transmissions with multiple gears. While they have experimented with CVTs in some models, their focus on off-road capabilities and ruggedness has led them to prioritize transmissions that offer better traction and control in challenging conditions.
7. Mazda
Mazda has traditionally focused on offering manual and automatic transmissions with multiple gears. While they have introduced CVTs in some models, they generally prioritize a more engaging and responsive driving experience. Their focus on driver engagement and delivering a more connected driving experience has led them to favor gearboxes that provide a more traditional and familiar driving feel.
It’s important to note that car manufacturers are constantly evolving, and the availability of transmissions can vary depending on the model and market. While these manufacturers have generally avoided CVTs, they may introduce them in specific models or markets in the future. However, their commitment to performance, driver engagement, and brand identity has led them to prioritize traditional transmissions for their core models.