Instead of gears, CVTs use a pair of variable-diameter pulleys connected by a belt or chain that can produce an infinite number of engine-to-wheel speed ratios.Checked 2026-08-11
Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
An automatic that uses variable-diameter pulleys instead of a fixed set of gears.
Also called: CVT · Xtronic · Lineartronic · e-CVT
What it means
Definition
A conventional automatic steps between a fixed number of ratios. The DOE describes the alternative: instead of gears, CVTs use a pair of variable-diameter pulleys connected by a belt or chain that can produce an infinite number of engine-to-wheel speed ratios. Because there are no steps, engine speed can hold steady while road speed rises.
Why a buyer cares
What it changes
It changes what normal sounds and feels like. Engine speed rising without road speed following is not a shift on a CVT, so the usual test-drive cues do not transfer from a stepped automatic.
In practice
Where you meet it
In listing spec lines as CVT or under a brand name, and on invoices referring to CVT fluid.
Two things that look alike
Not the same as
A dual-clutch transmission does have fixed gears — two clutches pre-select them. A CVT has none.
Read next
Related terms
Dual-clutch transmission (DCT)
An automatic built from two gearsets, each with its own clutch, so the next gear is pre-selected.
Transmission fluid service
Draining and refilling transmission fluid, on whatever schedule the maker publishes — or none.
Torque converter lockup shudder
A vibration felt while the torque converter's lockup clutch is engaging.
Where it shows up
Related problem files
Where this comes from