Cars with an Alternative Standard Transmission
Standard transmissions have been the norm for decades, but in recent years, a number of automakers have begun to offer alternative standard transmissions. These transmissions offer a variety of benefits over traditional manual transmissions, including improved fuel economy, reduced emissions, and easier driving.
Types of Alternative Standard Transmissions
There are three main types of alternative standard transmissions:
- Dual-clutch transmissions (DCTs) use two clutches to shift gears, which allows for faster and smoother shifts than traditional manual transmissions. DCTs are also more fuel-efficient than traditional manual transmissions.
- Automated manual transmissions (AMTs) use a computer to control the clutch and shifting, which makes them easier to drive than traditional manual transmissions. AMTs are also more fuel-efficient than traditional manual transmissions.
- Continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) use a belt or chain to transmit power from the engine to the wheels, which allows for an infinite number of gear ratios. CVTs are the most fuel-efficient of all alternative standard transmissions.
Benefits of Alternative Standard Transmissions
Alternative standard transmissions offer a number of benefits over traditional manual transmissions, including:
- Improved fuel economy – Alternative standard transmissions can improve fuel economy by up to 10% compared to traditional manual transmissions.
- Reduced emissions – Alternative standard transmissions can reduce emissions by up to 15% compared to traditional manual transmissions.
- Easier driving – Alternative standard transmissions are easier to drive than traditional manual transmissions, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Cars with Alternative Standard Transmissions
A number of automakers offer cars with alternative standard transmissions. Some of the most popular models include:
- Volkswagen Golf GTI (DCT)
- Honda Civic Si (CVT)
- Ford Focus ST (DCT)
- Subaru WRX STI (CVT)
- Audi A3 (S tronic)
Conclusion
Alternative standard transmissions offer a number of benefits over traditional manual transmissions, including improved fuel economy, reduced emissions, and easier driving. If you are considering buying a new car, be sure to consider a model with an alternative standard transmission.