Visual differences:
* Gear selector: CVTs usually have a longer and thinner selector than automatic transmissions, with additional ‘S’ and ‘L’ modes.
* Shift Lever: CVTs do not use a traditional gear lever. Instead, an electronic selector or keypad is used.
Technical device:
* Transmission: CVTs use a pulley and belt system rather than a planetary gear like an automatic transmission. This allows them to smoothly change the gear ratio without jerking, characteristic of automatic transmissions when changing gears.
* Control: CVTs are controlled electronically, which controls the gear ratio depending on engine speed, vehicle speed and load. Automatic transmissions, on the contrary, are controlled hydraulically.
Performance characteristics:
* Smooth ride: CVTs provide smoother and smoother driving than automatic transmissions.
* Economical: Thanks to the ability to maintain an optimal gear ratio, CVTs can be more economical than automatic transmissions.
*Acceleration: Automatic transmissions typically provide faster acceleration than CVTs due to their fixed gears.
Audi Features:
* Audi uses CVTs called ‘multitronic’ in some of its models such as the A4 and A6.
*Audi models with CVT may have an additional ‘Dynamic’ mode, which provides a sportier ride by simulating gear changes.