These days, when you look at cars, almost all of them have automatic transmissions that allow you to accelerate by pressing the gas pedal and brake by pressing the brake pedal. However, even though they are all automatic, some are referred to as DCT and others as CVT, leading to confusion about what the differences are. In this video, I will briefly explain the three most commonly used types of automatic transmissions: DCT, CVT, and torque converters. 

Hello, I’m Jodi, the Car President. Today, I’m going to explain these three automatic transmissions—DCT, CVT, and torque converter—in a very easy-to-understand way. Instead of diving into the mechanical principles, I will focus on the characteristics of each transmission, as well as their pros and cons. I hope you can relax and watch this comfortably. First, let's take a look at which vehicles are equipped with each type of transmission.

If we look primarily at domestic cars, first of all, regarding DCT, some models come with turbo engines while others are hybrids, so the powertrain configurations vary slightly. For example, models like the Santa Fe, Avante N, Kona, Sportage, and Tucson use DCT. On the other hand, CVT is used in the Avante, K3, and Venue, specifically in the 1.6 naturally aspirated models, and it is now also found in the recently updated Chevrolet Spark. Lastly, the torque converter transmission is used in almost all cars. In the specifications sheet, the transmission section typically does not specify DCT or CVT, but rather just states automatic transmission. Let's look at the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of torque converter transmissions. First, even if you're not very familiar with cars, you've probably heard of the term DCT. DCT stands for Dual Clutch Transmission. The clutch is used in manual transmissions.

Some people might ask if it's not just a device. Yes, that's correct. A dual-clutch transmission (DCT) has two clutches that function like those in a manual transmission. The principle of shifting gears is similar to that of a manual transmission, where the clutches engage and disengage the gear ratios. Fundamentally, the operating principle is the same as that of a manual transmission. Therefore, the DCT is referred to as an automated manual transmission based on a manual transmission system.

The advantages of DCT are significant. Since it has two clutches, the speed at which the transmission engages is very fast, and the direct connection is excellent. Additionally, because the mechanism is the same as that of a manual transmission, the power generated by the engine can be transmitted almost without loss. There is no wasted energy in this process, which also contributes to excellent fuel efficiency. This is one of the reasons why European cars have widely adopted DCT technology.

In Europe, fuel prices are high, and there are many narrow alleyways and poorly maintained roads. Naturally, the locals tend to prioritize aspects such as fuel efficiency and solid performance when considering cars. Therefore, they prefer vehicles that provide quick responsiveness, good sportiness, and excellent fuel economy, which is why they use dual-clutch transmissions (DCT). Notably, Volkswagen uses the DSG, Renault employs the EDC, and Porsche has the PDK among its transmissions. Mercedes also equips its front-wheel drive lineup with DCT. At first glance, DCT seems like the ultimate transmission. However, the problem is that the disadvantages of DCT are as significant as its advantages. The biggest drawback is its durability. The operating principle of DCT is the same as that of a manual transmission, but when driving, the driver does not have to engage the clutch or shift gears manually; it operates like an automatic transmission where you simply accelerate and brake.

When you step on the accelerator, it works like this. Therefore, people generally drive DCT cars as if they were driving an automatic vehicle. However, this process leads to issues that reduce durability. I won't explain every problem that arises afterward because that would make the video too long; just know that the durability of DCT is relatively short. Because of this, many actual owners consider DCT to be more of a consumable part. On average, once a DCT reaches around 100,000 kilometers, the flywheel and clutch usually need to be replaced. However, just replacing these two components can easily exceed 1 million won in the case of Hyundai and Kia vehicles, resulting in significant costs. Of course, those who know how to drive manually and primarily drive on highways can use it for much longer. Conversely, those who lack an understanding of manual driving often face stop-and-go situations.

If you primarily drive in the city, it's better to give up on the lifespan of the DCT. Another drawback is that the ride comfort can be lacking; specifically, when starting from a standstill or during low-speed acceleration, the first and second gears engage with a noticeable jerk. This is a typical characteristic of manual transmissions, and many people complain that DCTs are uncomfortable and cause motion sickness because of this. So, to conclude, only those who enjoy sporty driving and have an understanding of manual transmissions should consider it. On the other hand, if you use your car for daily commuting in Seoul, you should definitely go for a DCT. If you're unlucky, you might end up spending a fortune on repairs, so it's best to avoid buying a DCT altogether. 

Secondly, even if we refer to it as an automatic transmission, fundamentally, it operates like a 6-speed automatic or an 8-speed DCT.

In contrast to traditional gear systems, CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) does not have distinct gear ratios. Instead, it uses a belt or chain that adjusts the rotation speed smoothly. While conventional transmissions are divided into specific gears like 1st, 2nd, and 3rd, a CVT operates in a continuous manner, for example, shifting seamlessly from 1.1 to 1.2, 1.3, and so on. This allows for smooth acceleration without any noticeable interruptions or slipping, resulting in a very fluid driving experience. Additionally, CVTs are generally more efficient in smaller, compact cars with lower engine displacements. As I mentioned at the beginning of the video, models like the Avante, Venue, and Spark, which are primarily small cars, are often equipped with CVTs by Hyundai and Kia.

IVT is a well-known name, and CVT is used much more in two-wheel drive vehicles than in four-wheel drive ones. If you look at the scooters we commonly see on the streets, almost all of them are using CVT. First of all, the advantage of CVT is that it is designed to provide optimal efficiency at a suitable engine RPM. Therefore, it generally offers good fuel efficiency and practicality. Lastly, this can be considered an advantage, especially when compared to DCT, as it tends to have better durability. Of course, compared to traditional automatic transmissions, it may still be lacking, but CVT is definitely sturdier than DCT. On the other hand, there are a few disadvantages as well. First, CVT is fundamentally not suitable for sports driving. For example, during driving, if you intentionally lower the gear ratio and suddenly increase the RPM, it doesn't respond as well.

In this type of sports driving, there are some disadvantages. As I mentioned earlier, CVTs are primarily used in compact cars or small vehicles. Naturally, they are not very suitable for cars with high displacement or sports cars. They are mainly used in vehicles with low displacement and compact sizes. The driving feel is also somewhat different compared to conventional transmissions. For example, when I press the accelerator pedal, my intention is not immediately reflected; the feedback feels like it is a beat behind. Lastly, the term torque converter sounds quite grand, but generally, when we refer to automatic transmissions, we mean this torque converter. There is a device called a torque converter between the engine and the transmission of the car. Its role is to transmit the engine's power to the transmission.

하는데요. 이 토크 컨버터 안을 뜯어보면 내부에 두 개의 펜이 있고, 그 사이에 유체 커플링이라는 장치가 있어서 기름으로 힘을 전달하는 구조입니다. 그런데 어차피 저희가 중요한 건 이런 원론적인 이야기가 아니라 장단점이 뭔지 알아야 하니까, 복잡한 기계적인 이야기는 이 정도만 하고 패스할게요. 그렇다면 이 토크 컨버터의 특징이 뭐냐? 이 토크 컨버터 자동 변속기는 자동차의 변속기 역사 속에서도 가장 근본에 가까운, 그러니까 전통적이면서도 가장 일반적인 미션 방식이에요. 한마디로 가장 무난한데, 역사도 길어서 이미 다듬을 만큼 다 다듬었고, 때문에 굉장히 안정적이란 소리입니다. 소모품 주기에 맞춰서 미션 오일만 잘 교체해 줘도 웬만하면 트러블을 일으키지 않는 이 안정성이 제일 큰 장점이고요. 또 다른 특징은 이 기어가 변속할 때 체결이나 변속감이…

It's incredibly smooth. The gears are divided into 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, but as I mentioned, the torque converter transmits power through fluid. This results in a very smooth shifting experience. This characteristic makes driving more comfortable, which is an advantage. However, when discussing advantages, we cannot ignore the disadvantages. There are indeed some downsides. Since the torque converter transmission transmits power through fluid, it lacks a direct connection feel, and there is a power loss during the intermediate process. Additionally, it has been pointed out that it is slightly disadvantageous in terms of fuel efficiency. However, as I mentioned earlier, the torque converter transmission is a traditional transmission that has a long history, and over time, it has truly...

Many transmission manufacturers have gone through calibration and continuous development, and as a result, they have now reached a nearly perfected state, significantly reducing the shortcomings that existed in the past. For example, the 8-speed transmission supplied by ZF to BMW is genuinely impressive; despite being a torque converter type, the direct feel during shifting is outstanding, and the engagement speed is really fast. Of course, this is partly due to BMW's excellent tuning. Moreover, most torque converter transmissions have now improved their fuel efficiency to a considerable level. Therefore, they have developed to the point where fuel efficiency is no longer a drawback. In conclusion, torque converter transmissions are stable and the smoothest types of transmissions, and now, with remarkable improvements in fuel efficiency, shifting speed, and direct feel, unless someone particularly wants to drive a manual transmission or a dual-clutch vehicle, it is just...

You can buy a mindless talk converter automatic transmission car. Today, I’ve made a brief video about the three types of automatic transmissions and their pros and cons. I tried my best to explain it in an easy-to-understand way, and I hope it gets across well. If you found it helpful, please subscribe, like, and turn on notifications. This has been editor Jo Yong-kyu for KakaoTalk. Thank you!

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