Vehicles utilizing automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, traditional manual gearboxes, and automated manual transmissions circumvent the characteristics of a continuously variable transmission (CVT). These systems offer distinct driving experiences and mechanical architectures compared to CVTs, which employ belts and pulleys to provide a theoretically infinite range of gear ratios. Examples include vehicles equipped with a standard six-speed automatic or those offering the option of a manual transmission.
The absence of a CVT in a vehicle can appeal to drivers who prefer the familiar feel of stepped gear changes and the direct connection often associated with traditional transmissions. Furthermore, some perceive conventional automatic and manual transmissions as offering greater long-term reliability, although advancements in CVT technology continue to improve their durability. Historically, the preference for fixed-gear transmissions stemmed from their established presence and the readily available expertise for their maintenance and repair.
