Picking the right vehicle is an important decision. You should consider several elements when finding a model that suits your needs. Apart from being reliable, comfortable, and safe, you need to be confident at the wheel. Part of this driving comfort includes having a transmission that you feel good about.
When you shop for cars, you’ll find four transmission types: manual, automatic, CVT, and semi-automatic. In this article, you will learn about these transmission types and how they transfer power from the engine to the wheels. With a better understanding of transmission, you can confidently choose one that fits your driving style.
Also known as a stick shift, manual transmission is the most difficult type to operate but the most engaging for drivers. Fewer cars come with manual transmissions today. However, you can still purchase new trucks and high-performance models with this type of transmission.
It is referred to by the name of stick shift or even simply “stick” because of the apparatus between the two front seats in the middle console. The driver uses the stick shift to manually change gears when the car increases speed or slows down. At the same time, the driver presses down on the clutch pedal, a third pedal to the left of the brake. Here are some aspects of manual transmission that people like:
The opposite of manual transmission is automatic transmission. There is no stick shift, nor is there a clutch pedal to use. The up-shifting and down-shifting happen automatically without any intervention from the driver. Automatic transmission is the most common type found in all body styles.
The benefits of an automatic transmission include:
Continuous variable transmission, CVT, is becoming increasingly common in modern vehicles. CVT is typically in smaller vehicles, including compact SUVs and crossovers. The main difference between CVT and other types is that CVT doesn’t use gears. Instead, it works on a system of belts and pulleys to deliver power to the wheels. There is no stick shift or clutch pedal, as these processes happen automatically.
You’ll find these benefits with a CVT:
Drivers looking for a good blend of manual and automatic transmissions should consider a semi-automatic transmission. While there is no clutch pedal on the floor, the driver can manually shift from gear to gear. However, this doesn’t happen using a traditional stick shift but rather paddles or buttons on or near the steering wheel.
The advantages of using semi-automatic transmission include the following:
Choosing a transmission you feel confident operating is an important part of vehicle shopping. Evaluate these four types to decide which one fits your driving style. Then, shop at Volvo Cars Fredericksburg in Fredericksburg, VA. Stop by today so we can show you which cars in our inventory come with the transmission you like.
