<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=0jT4Xu_0vpA5TfQ00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=0jT4Xu_0vpA5TfQ00" width="1140" height="641" ><figcaption>Nissan</figcaption></figure><p>A continuously variable transmission, known as a "CVT," is far different than a traditionally geared transmission. A CVT is a newer style of transmission that uses two rubber or metal cone-shaped pulleys driven by a belt. As you drive, the distance between the cones changes, as does the diameter at which the belt is spinning.</p><p>The change in diameter and movement in the pulleys mimics the changing of gears in a smoother way while varying the ratios as the engine goes through the rpm range, hence the name "continuously variable." Automakers like using this style of transmission for its compact size and cheaper materials compared with a geared transmission.</p><p>However, not all CVTs are created equal, and some of them have notoriously failed in the past, tarnishing the reputation of the transmission among driving enthusiasts. Fortunately, some manufacturers have improved the CVTs that they put in their cars, making them more reliable. If you were ever apprehensive about owning a car with a CVT, here are 10 cars that could change your mind.</p><p>In compiling this article, we have cross-referenced information for vehicle reliability, maintenance, and pricing from sources like J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, RepairPal, CarEdge, and Consumer Reports to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible. Please note that we have ranked the following models based on the least reliable to the most reliable.</p><h2><b>10</b> <b>2017 Nissan Versa</b> </h2><h2>Reliability Score: 79/100 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=4eUvOl_0vpA5TfQ00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=4eUvOl_0vpA5TfQ00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Nissan&nbsp;</figcaption></figure><p>The 2017 Nissan Versa is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a basic means of transportation from point A to B. You won't find too many frills in the Versa, as most of its notable features include Bluetooth, a 5-inch audio display, and a push-button start. Of course, it also comes with a CVT, which pairs well with its 1.6-liter engine that makes 109 horsepower and achieves up to 39 mpg on the highway.</p><h2>Reliability </h2><p>In terms of reliability, the 2017 Nissan Versa has received many five-star reviews from owners, but it's not perfect. Some owner reviews on Cars.com say that the CVT has given them some trouble, a couple of them even needing replacements in as little as 30,000 miles. However, 83 percent of owners recommend the car, so the issues can vary depending on the car.</p><ul><li><b>Average Yearly Maintenance Cost:</b> $321 (RepairPal) </li><li><b>Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years:</b> $5,550 (CarEdge) </li><li><b>Total Recalls:</b> 3 </li><li><b>Worst Versa Year To Buy Used:</b> 2008 </li></ul><h2><b>9</b> <b>2020 Honda Accord</b> </h2><h2>Reliability Score: 80/100 </h2><p>When it comes to mid-size sedans, the 2020 Honda Accord is easily one of the best. It provides plenty of space for five people, enough cargo room for all their stuff, and surprisingly engaging driving dynamics. That sporty fun gets upgraded when the Accord is equipped with a manual transmission, but the standard CVT works just fine and allows it to return up to 35 mpg on the highway.</p><h2>Reliability </h2><p>It goes without saying that the 2020 Honda Accord is reliable. In fact, 95 percent of owners on Cars.com sing its praises, reporting that their cars can get closer to 40 mpg and are comfortable to boot. That said, there were a few reviews concerning the car's lack of features for the price and issues with the Bluetooth, but nothing concerning the car's CVT.</p><ul><li><b>Average Yearly Maintenance Cost:</b> $400 (RepairPal) </li><li><b>Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years:</b> $5,643 (CarEdge) </li><li><b>Total Recalls:</b> 4 </li><li><b>Worst Accord Year To Buy Used:</b> 1998 </li></ul><h2><b>8</b> <b>2019 Subaru Legacy</b> </h2><h2>Reliability Score: 81/100 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=4JUxT7_0vpA5TfQ00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=4JUxT7_0vpA5TfQ00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Subaru</figcaption></figure><p>The 2019 Subaru Legacy is likely overlooked on the used market, but it deserves some recognition. The Legacy offers a spacious interior, a potent turbocharged engine, and a standard all-wheel-drive system, which gives it a leg up over other sedans. It also comes equipped with a CVT, which can make the base 175-horsepower engine feel lethargic. But we recommend opting for the upgraded 256-horsepower engine, which makes the Legacy far more lively.</p><h2>Reliability </h2><p>The 2019 Subaru Legacy has many positive reviews on Cars.com. One of them notes:</p><p><b>I drive 80 miles round trip to work. My Legacy is quiet, comfortable and the Eye Sight is great! I’m safe and secure knowing my Subaru has my back. I’d like better mpg but at 32 on average I guess I shouldn’t complain. Love my Subie!</b></p><p>That said, there are other reviews that aren't so favorable, but they don't mention the car's CVT. Instead, they're mainly complaints about the car's battery or issues with the Eyesight driver-assist technology.</p><ul><li><b>Average Yearly Maintenance Cost:</b> $563 (RepairPal) </li><li><b>Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years:</b> $6,262 (CarEdge) </li><li><b>Total Recalls:</b> 3 </li><li><b>Worst Legacy Year To Buy Used:</b> 2009 </li></ul><h2><b>7</b> <b>2021 Kia Forte</b> </h2><h2>Reliability Score: 84/100 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=2KdtPa_0vpA5TfQ00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=2KdtPa_0vpA5TfQ00" width="1650" height="928" ></figure><p>The 2021 Kia Forte is a great option for anyone in search of a cheaper alternative to a Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic. The current average price for a 2021 Forte is around $14,231, which is a good deal considering what you get with it. Even the base model comes equipped with Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. It's also powered by a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter engine that's connected to a CVT.</p><h2>Reliability </h2><p>Many owners are pleased with the 2021 Kia Fortes. Some of them praised the car's interior, features, and excellent fuel economy. However, there are a few reports on Cars.com concerning issues with the car's engine and air conditioning system, but nothing about the CVT.</p><ul><li><b>Average Yearly Maintenance Cost:</b> $451 (RepairPal) </li><li><b>Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years:</b> $6,011 (CarEdge) </li><li><b>Total Recalls:</b> 2 </li><li><b>Worst Forte Year To Buy Used:</b> 2010 </li></ul><h2><b>6</b> <b>2020 Hyundai Elantra</b> </h2><h2>Reliability Score: 84/100 </h2><p>The 2020 Hyundai Elantra is a value-packed compact sedan that rivals the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and its corporate cousin, the Kia Forte. Like the Kia, the Elantra provides plenty of value per dollar with its host of standard features. Some of the most notable features include a 5-inch display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, but higher trims get navigation, wireless phone charging, and a more powerful sound system. The 2020 model year was the start of Hyundai's use of the Intelligent Variable Transmission, which is the brand's name for the CVT. It pairs well with the base 147-horsepower engine. </p><h2>Reliability </h2><p>Many owners have given the 2020 Hyundai Elantra raving reviews concerning its easy-to-drive nature and reliability. One standout review on Cars.com notes:</p><p><b>This car is very easy to drive. The only problem was the steering wheel bearing's grinding noise, which gradually rose over time to the point of obvious. Hyundai is aware of the issue, it's covered, and the dealer has the special tools to change it. The CVT's activity may cause some consternation at times, but this is not even a complaint material for me. Anyway, overall, this is a great car and so worth the price.</b></p><p>Aside from the glowing reviews, some of them include complaints about the transmission, but they are few and far between.</p><ul><li><b>Average Yearly Maintenance Cost:</b> $452 (RepairPal) </li><li><b>Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years:</b> $6,098 (CarEdge) </li><li><b>Total Recalls:</b> 3 </li><li><b>Worst Elantra Year To Buy Used:</b> 2013 </li></ul><h2><b>5</b> <b>2021 Nissan Sentra</b> </h2><h2>Reliability Score: 85/100 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=14icNR_0vpA5TfQ00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=14icNR_0vpA5TfQ00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Nissan</figcaption></figure><p>The 2021 Nissan Sentra is a handsome sedan with a surprisingly snazzy interior. It has enough room for up to five adults and their stuff, in addition to being stacked with plenty of standard features. Its base engine is a 149-horsepower, 2.0-liter engine that pairs well with its CVT. Together, the duo is good for up to 39 mpg on the highway and 29 mpg in the city.</p><h2>Reliability </h2><p>The Nissan Sentra is notorious for having issues with its CVT, but the 2021 model year doesn't seem to have many issues. On Cars.com, 92 percent of owners left five-star reviews, praising the car's engine setup, features, and interior design. We didn't find any reviews concerning issues with the CVT.</p><ul><li><b>Average Yearly Maintenance Cost:</b> $491 (RepairPal) </li><li><b>Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years:</b> $5,733re (CarEdge) </li><li><b>Total Recalls:</b> 3 </li><li><b>Worst Sentra Year To Buy Used:</b> 2013 </li></ul><h2><b>4</b> <b>2020 Toyota Corolla</b> </h2><h2>Reliability Score: 85/100 </h2><p>The 2020 Toyota Corolla is a safe choice for buyers looking for a reliable compact sedan. The 2020 model has a flashier style not seen in previous generations, in addition to an improved driving performance. Its base 139-horsepower, 1.8-liter engine sends its power to the front wheels via a smooth-operating CVT. The setup allows for 38 mpg on the highway, which is exceptional for a small sedan.</p><h2>Reliability </h2><p>It should be no surprise that the 2020 Toyota Corolla has received many five-star reviews on Cars.com. However, there were a couple of reviews regarding the car's transmission and electrical issues. That said, we recommend having the car checked out by a qualified mechanic, if you plan to buy one.</p><ul><li><b>Average Yearly Maintenance Cost:</b> $362 (RepairPal) </li><li><b>Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years:</b> $4,229 (CarEdge) </li><li><b>Total Recalls:</b> 4 </li><li><b>Worst Corolla Year To Buy Used:</b> 2000 </li></ul><h2><b>3</b> <b>2021 Honda Civic</b> </h2><h2>Reliability Score: 86/100 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=1OQoMq_0vpA5TfQ00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1OQoMq_0vpA5TfQ00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Honda</figcaption></figure><p>When it comes to basic transportation, it's hard to beat the 2021 Honda Civic. This version of the Civic is outfitted with a base 158-horsepower 2.0-liter engine, which matches well with the CVT. However, we recommend getting the higher trim level, which comes with a 180-horsepower, turbocharged 1.5-liter engine. No matter which engine is chosen, the 2021 Civic comes with a bevy of standard features, including a 7-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity.</p><h2>Reliability </h2><p>We found a few complaints from owners regarding the Civic's CVT, but the pros outweigh the cons of this car. Some of the positive reviews concern the Civic's excellent handling, braking, and fuel efficiency.</p><ul><li><b>Average Yearly Maintenance Cost:</b> $368 (RepairPal) </li><li><b>Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years:</b> $5,620 (CarEdge) </li><li><b>Total Recalls:</b> 3 </li><li><b>Worst Civic Year To Buy Used:</b> 2001 </li></ul><h2><b>2</b> <b>2021 Nissan Maxima</b> </h2><h2>Reliability Score: 86/100 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=3PSE6x_0vpA5TfQ00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3PSE6x_0vpA5TfQ00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Nissan</figcaption></figure><p>The 2021 Nissan Maxima offers plenty of style and driving enjoyment for a mid-size sedan. The Maxima used to be called the "four-door sports car," after all, and the 2021 model year represents that tagline. Under its hood is a 300-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine that's matched to a CVT. That may sound boring, but the Maxima is able to get up to 60 mph from a stop in only 5.7 seconds, which is quick for a family hauler.</p><h2>Reliability </h2><p>There are some owners who have reported issues with the Maxima's CVT, but many owners are pleased overall with the car. In fact, all nine reviews on Cars.com rate the car with five stars, citing its looks and superb driving dynamics.</p><ul><li><b>Average Yearly Maintenance Cost:</b> $540 (RepairPal) </li><li><b>Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years:</b> $7,544 (CarEdge) </li><li><b>Total Recalls:</b> 0 </li><li><b>Worst Maxima Year To Buy Used:</b> 2004 </li></ul><h2><b>1</b> <b>2021 Chevrolet Malibu</b> </h2><h2>Reliability Score: 86/100 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=21DjPp_0vpA5TfQ00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=21DjPp_0vpA5TfQ00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>GM Chevrolet</figcaption></figure><p>The 2021 Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size sedan that features a classy interior and handsome esthetics. Additionally, the Malibu comes with a choice of turbocharged engines -- a 1.5-liter and a more potent 2.0-liter. Both of them can be paired with a CVT and front wheel drive is the only configuration it comes in.</p><h2>Reliability </h2><p>There are many positive reviews about the 2021 Chevrolet Malibu on Cars.com concerning the way the car drives. One standout review reported:</p><ul><li><b>Average Yearly Maintenance Cost:</b> $532 (RepairPal) </li><li><b>Est. Maintenance Cost During The First 10 Years:</b> $6,642 (CarEdge) </li><li><b>Total Recalls:</b> 2 </li><li><b>Worst Malibu Year To Buy Used:</b> 2007 </li></ul></div></body>

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10 Cars That Prove A CVT Transmission Isn't That Bad After All

A continuously variable transmission, known as a \"CVT,\" is far different than a traditionally geared transmission. A CVT is a newer style of transmission that uses two rubber or metal cone-shaped pulleys driven by a belt. As you drive, the distance between the cones changes, as does the diameter at which the belt is spinning.

A continuously variable transmission, known as a "CVT," is far different than a traditionally geared transmission. A CVT is a newer style of transmission that uses two rubber or metal cone-shaped pulleys driven by a belt. As you drive, the distance between the cones changes, as does the diameter at which the belt is spinning.

10 Cars That Prove A CVT Transmission Isn't That Bad After All

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