The transmission works by shifting through an infinite number of gear  ratios between the minimum and maximum threshold without steps. This creates  a smooth driving experience without the shift lag experienced in traditional  transmission systems. The transmission does not require a clutch and gives  the driver optimum fuel efficiency and performance. Discover why Subaru's  CVT, found on the Subaru Outback, Subaru Legacy and 2012 Subaru Impreza,  is the best economical and performance driven choice for you and your  family.

How CVT Works

Before we get into the technical definition (below), you might be wondering  why Subaru's use CVT rather than a traditional gearbox transmission  that uses gears and gear trains. CVT offers the benefits of fewer mechanical  breakdowns, increased fuel economy and power when you need it. Traditional  transmissions shift during a given minimum and maximum RPM. This decreases  your fuel economy and doesn't give you the maximum power for your  automatic transmission.

Subaru's Lineartronic CVT uses two hydraulically operated, adjustable  pulleys with a chain link that runs between and connects them. The metal  chain allows the system to remain compact while requiring less maintenance.

The chain rides within each V-shaped pulley so that the chain equals  the pulleys width. The distance between the sides of the pulleys is  adjustable, allowing the chain to ride lower or higher in the valley  of the V shape. The gear depends on the size of the V shape within the  pulleys.

Manual Mode

One of the benefits of Subaru Lineartronic CVT is that it allows you  to switch to manual mode, which simulates a six-speed manual transmission.  The driver can use paddle levers on the steering wheel, or the shifter  to increase gears for cruising, or downshifting gears for passing and  acceleration power. When the engines rev limit or minimum is reached,  the vehicle shifts the gear if you forget.

Benefits