What’s the difference between Automatic, Manual and Continuously Variable Transmissions?

Automatic vs Manual vs CVT
For drivers who are looking for a new driving experience or have run across terminology they don’t understand, we are ready to help. When it comes to transmission there are three conventional types: automatic, manual, and continuously variable, also known as CVT. We want to tell you more about these transmission types and help you see which one is right for you.

READ MORE: What is the difference between a coupe and a sedan?

Definition
Automatic transmission is one most people are familiar with. The automatic transmission allows the vehicle to change to different gears on its own rather than the drivers making the adjustments. Manual is where that transmission relies on the drivers to use the clutch to accelerate. The continuously variable transmission is usually matched with paddle shifters to imitate gear shifts like in manual transmissions for a smoother gear change. These options may be more your speed, and we can help you learn more about them and show you what works for your needs.

Benefits
The key positive of the automatic transmission is that it doesn’t take any steps to kick it into the next gear. You simply press the gas pedal and go. The manual transmission takes some time to learn but can have benefits of a smooth ride and can have benefits of being more fuel efficient. The CVT is for those who want the kind of driving experience a manual transmission can give but not have to worry about the gear shifts and just use the paddle shifters.

two men working underneath car
READ MORE: Can Too Many Car Washes Damage Your Car?

We hope this automatic vs manual vs CVT comparison was helpful. If you would like to learn more about our available vehicles and their transmissions, you can check out our online inventory and schedule a test drive with us at Hilton Head Honda today.