It’s pretty easy to understand why a racing enthusiast or ardent motorhead would never prefer an automatic transmission or its more curbed variants. Autos are reliable, safe, and economical, but they aren’t designed for efficient fuel consumption or high torque output to transform its drive into ‘race car’ level acceleration. Even your automatic’s high gear setting is not as fast as a DCT high-performance vehicle.
As a result, automatics are ideal for someone who needs an urban conveyance and is an early learner. Select a car, plus transmission, that sits well with the speeds & handling you want. Your trusty dealership, Vann York Toyota, invites you in for a spot of car transmission chat to up your car selection game!
How Does a Transmission Work?
To understand, you need to visualize the car’s drive train. The engine powers the crankshaft at one end; the transmission gears are further ahead, attached to an axle & differentials that power the car’s wheels. The clutch is the main mechanism that couples the crankshaft to the transmission. The gearbox defines the required gear ratio and is adjusted by a driver manually.
That’s also a manual ride for you!
Manuals require innate skill & practice to be driven right; that’s why motorheads love them, just like the New 2021 Toyota GR Supra. It’s the much anticipated 8-speed gear shifter with manual mode. Do check it out!
Automatics (AT)
Here, the clutch is the first thing to go. Add a torque converter, a few motors, & a computer programed with preset gear ratios. You have a fully automatic car where the most you need to do is put it into drive & direction, and you are good to go. They’re perfect for your daily commute!
Automated Manuals (AMT)
It is a manual, but a computer automates the gears. Yes, there is no clutch, and you will see the gearstick look like a volume dial in such cars, but they are the choice of transmission in budget vehicles and can haul heavy loads. They also allow a gear shift from auto to manual in pricier models, which adds to the charm.
Dual Clutch (DCT)
It is a variant of the AMT and is a rich array of even & odd gears to allow for quick throttle in high-end vehicles, SUVs, & hauling-class trucks. The DCT is a sturdy, high throttle design and is much revered among motorheads. It is the choice of transmission in high-performance & luxury cars.
Continuous Variable (CVT)
The CVT is a gearless, dual pulley & belt transmission that has an infinite gear ratio for a fluid shift and, depending on driving habits, may be more fuel-efficient than an AT, DCT, or AMT. It’s a suitable transmission in a luxury car for a quiet drive experience, but it is not made for high performance. If you like your engine revving with life, it’s not the transmission for you. CVTs are too quiet, too gradual.
You can pair your choices with an adaptive controlled AWD, an equally powered 4×4, or you can go gear & fuel-free by investing in an EV or a hybrid drive. The possibilities, now with the online store active, are endless!
So, if you’re stumped about which transmission to get, just head on over to Vann York Toyota serving High Point, NC, and get a hands-on experience in car transmissions. We boast a stunning panel of new Toyotas, & used vehicles, with flexible payment plans & an easy appraisal for your current car.
Somewhere out on our turf, a smooth 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross with a CVT is waiting for you!
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