Nissan appreciated the CVT's benefits of fuel economy and seamless acceleration

May 1, 2011

NISSAN XTRONIC CVT

Continuously Variable Nissan Transmission provides smooth and “stepless” ratio changes. The CVT is an automatic transmission which provides expanded gear ratio range. In XTRONIC CVT response and efficiency level is improved. It also provide Improved dynamic performance and powerful acceleration feel. In addition, adoption of a high-performance ATF enhances response and stability.

The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) provides smooth and “stepless” ratio changes, unlike conventional transmission systems that use sets of fixed gears. Nissan appreciated the CVT’s benefits of fuel economy and seamless acceleration from an earlier stage, and was the world’s first to offer CVTs for engine displacements as large as 3.5 liters. Today, Nissan’s CVT technology offers smooth and fuel-efficient “fun-to-drive” performance in an extensive range of Nissan models, from the compact class all the way up to high-powered luxury vehicles.

Nissan Seamless acceleration

The CVT is an automatic transmission that uses two pulleys with a steel belt running between them. To continuously vary its gear ratios, the CVT simultaneously adjusts the diameter of the “drive pulley” that transmits torque from the engine and the “driven pulley” that transfers torque to the wheels. With stepless shifting of gear ratios, the CVT can avoid the shift-shock and deliver smooth driving, making it an exceptional transmission solution.

Improved response and efficiency

Expanded gear ratio range

In the XTRONIC CVT, the gear ratio range* from low to high gear is expanded, attaining a top-of-class final gear reduction ratio of about 6, thanks to pulley and steel belt improvements and the use of high performance ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid). This ratio spread is among the world’s widest for a CVT designed for use with 1.5-liter to 2.0-liter class engines. With a wide ratio spread and highly precise control, the CVT delivers outstanding acceleration and fuel economy.

* Gear ratio range: The ratio spread from low to high gear. The low gear ratio divided by the high gear ratio.

Improved dynamic performance and powerful acceleration feel

We improved the electronic control system and the hydraulic system components under its control. In addition, adoption of a high-performance ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) enhances response and stability. As a result, the CVT shifts ratios about 30% faster than the previous version. With this, Nissan’s CVT technology provides instantaneous response to the driver’s intention, in addition to a natural feeling of powerful acceleration.