" 7 speed CVT"
I always thought it silly when they talk about number of gears on a continual variable transmission. Isn't the continually variable bit meant to be an important part of how it works ;-)
|
True, but giving owners the option of "ratios" makes them feel a bit more wanted ;-)
This is another thread indicating that drivers who once accepted manual cars would rather have an DSG/CVT/torq conv auto now. Auto sales will probably overtake manual sales in this country fairly soon. The traffic conditions have made many want to switch. And the increased efficiency and affordability of an auto. Of course, some cars offer the best experience in manual, a Honda S2000 for instance, but for the everyday 'hack', an auto is an increasingly popular choice. I'm a convert!
|
As BP said, the Honda Jazz has seven points in the CVT which are programmed to act as gears. I'm trying to see the point of programming in more since the top can't, presumably, be a higher ratio than the top the CVT can achieve. So are some of the ratios closer together to give a different drive?
I know that some of the techs on here are massively distrustful of CVT but I'd have thought Audi's adoption of it stands for something.
|
|
Audi A6 I travelled in last week, from Kent to Lille and Ypres, has a CVT which the driver just left in D. Runs at around 1900/2000 at cruise, and rarely goes higher. Usually unaware of the diesel engine, except that it doesn't need refilling that often. Want one. If I don't have to pay for rectification if it grenades:)
|
|
|
|
"And the increased efficiency and affordability of an auto"
A traditional torque converter type auto is less efficient than a manual. Agree a dual clutch arrangement like the VAG DSG is efficient. If it were not for the inefficiency for the torque converter boxes a lot more would have them already. On a more powerful engine the losses are probably a smaller %age and so easier to justify - you try selling a manual 2+ litre Mercedes with a manual box and foot operated parking break ;-)
|
|
|
|
