As the updated 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander Cross is set to be unveiled at the end of this month, it brings with it a whole slew of notable mechanical, exterior, and interior changes.

While the exact specifications of the local unit have yet to be announced, one of the major updates that our local spec unit reportedly won’t get or fail to have is a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). If inputs from our dealer sources are correct, the 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander Cross will be unlike the one that was launched in last year's Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show, which featured a CVT.

Still a 4-speed auto

Word is that the updated Xpander Cross to be launched on January 26th, will continue to utilize the tried and tested 4-Speed Automatic transmission instead of using a CVT for the Philippine market. I think Mitsubishi might have dropped the ball on this one, as it could have been the turning point for the Xpander to elevate its status and become more equipped than the rest of the competition.

Perhaps one of the major reasons behind this move by Mitsubishi Motors Philippines Corporation, if it were true, is so that it could be to keep the price low enough to attract more buyers. The 4-speed automatic is already an existing technology, so there’s no need to develop new tooling and alter assembly processes which translate to extra savings and lower prices for consumers. It is still one of MMPC's best-selling models, so why mess with success?

But the popularity of CVT transmissions among all major car manufacturers has been steadily increasing over the past few years. Mainly because CVTs offer a balance between acceleration and getting maximum fuel mileage.

Here’s a quick rundown of other reasons as to why a CVT is better and why more brands are adopting this across their model lineups.  

Movement is smoother

While conventional automatic transmission uses a set of gears, a CVT adjusts its ratio by varying the width between pulleys connected via a belt, thus changing the gear ratios. In other words, the fixed gear ratios in a traditional automatic gearbox are replaced with a constantly varying speed setting. This makes gear changes smoother and seamless, unlike conventional transmissions where ‘gear hunting’ and shift shock are commonly experienced and felt when changing gears.

More effective and generates more power at low speed

By extending the range of pulley wheel ratios at low or high speeds, the CVT can transfer power from the engine more effectively. This explains why it can generate much power even at low RPMs. Unlike a traditional geared transmission, a CVT can vary the engine speed across an extensive range because it is not limited to fixed gear ratios.

No need for high RPMs

Since conventional automatic transmissions need a larger powerband during gear changes to operate efficiently, it also requires higher RPMs. With a CVT, that is not the case, and it doesn't need the high revs that gear-based automatic acceleration demands when you want the engine to pick up speed. By varying the ratios, a CVT can accelerate a vehicle even at low engine speeds.

More fuel efficient

Because of the pulley's ability to continuously adjust the gear ratio, the CVT doesn't require the same high RPM. Regardless of whether the engine speed is low or high, the engine always runs at its peak efficiency, which explains why CVTs are more fuel efficient.

Compact dimensions

Almost all CVTs have compact dimensions because it has fewer components than conventional automatic transmissions, which make use of physical gears and other ancillary parts. This also makes it lighter, which lessens the overall weight of the vehicle and puts less strain overall on the drivetrain.

Fewer CVT components

Again, unlike conventional automatic transmissions that require a lot of gears, a torque converter, and more, CVTs have fewer components making them more efficient and easier to repair if needed. 

Downsides of Using a CVT

CVTs are expensive

Unlike other conventional transmissions that can be replaced individually, the CVT transmission must be replaced as a whole if there is damage to one part.

Not meant for heavy loads

CVTs are generally made for passenger vehicles and not geared towards heavy-duty industrial use like carrying or pulling heavy loads that will shorten the life of the CVT.

Steel belt check

As the main component of the transmission drive, the steel belt must be checked frequently or as recommended by the car manufacturer.

It requires using CVT-specific transmission oil

Unlike most automatic transmission that uses ordinary automatic transmission fluid or ATF, CVTs require a CVT-specific gear oil.

Also Read: The 2023 Mitsubishi Xpander Cross to start at ₱1,328,000?