How it feels when moving
* Automatic:
* Gear changes are clearly felt as shocks or changes in traction.
* When coasting, step shifts are felt.
* CVT:
* Gear changes occur seamlessly, without jolts or vibrations.
* When coasting, engine speed changes smoothly, without switching.
Feels like when switching modes
* Automatic:
* There is a noticeable jolt when switching from mode to mode (eg P to D).
* CVT:
* When switching modes, shocks are not felt.
By location of the gear shift lever
* Automatic:
* As a rule, the shift lever is located closer to the driver and has traditional positions (P, R, N, D, L).
* CVT:
* The shift lever is often shaped differently, such as a “J” or “L”, and may be located on the center console or dashboard.
According to tachometer readings
* Automatic:
*When changing gears, engine speed may change noticeably.
* CVT:
* Engine speed changes smoothly, regardless of vehicle speed.
According to markings on the body or in the documentation
* The presence of an automatic transmission (AT) or a variator (CVT) may be indicated on the body or in the documentation for the vehicle.