RSS
The continuously variable transmission (CVT) may not be new technology, but it may soon become a hallmark of Subaru’s lineup. The Japanese automaker is reportedly looking at using the transmission design after launching it in the redesigned 2010 Legacy and Outback models.
“We are thinking about it,” a Subaru spokesperson told the Japanese Nikkei Sangyo newspaper, “but we don’t have an actual plan about which models.” The paper went on to suggest both the Forester and Impreza — two models currently equipped with four-speed automatic transmissions — may receive CVTs in the near future.
Subaru has offered the transmissions in its Japanese-market microcars since the late 1980s, but has only recently started to offer CVT technology in larger vehicles. In addition to the Legacy and Outback, Subaru’s Exiga crossover will also launch with the same transmission.
Source: Automotive News
Having driven the 2010 Subaru Legacy with the CVT, I’d say this is a good idea for Subaru. AWD and 31 mpg on the highway is pretty impressive.