Which Transmission Is Right for You In Manhattan, KS

How to Choose the Right Transmission Type for Your Vehicle

A vehicle can be equipped with one of four transmission options: a manual, automatic, continuously variable-speed system, or semi-automatic system. There are differences between them, but they all have advantages, and drivers may prefer one over the other for various reasons.

Understanding the different types of transmissions available on the market can benefit you when choosing a vehicle. You can select the transmission that best suits your driving needs and make an informed decision when buying your new Nissan. If you’re from the Manhattan, KS, area, Briggs Nissan can help you find a suitable model with the right transmission type for your lifestyle.

Let’s examine four common transmission types and explain how they work. By comparing each, you will be able to see its advantages. Once you know what transmission you need, you can choose what vehicle to purchase.

Manual Transmission

Manual transmissions are the simplest and oldest types. They have a gearbox that uses a mechanical clutch and a gear selector to switch between speeds. When using a manual transmission, the driver must engage the gears on the vehicle to change gears. Drivers shift gears using a stick shift, which is located in the center console between the seats. Along with the stick shift, cars with manual transmissions have a clutch pedal. To start, accelerate, and slow down the car, the driver must step on this pedal with his or her left foot.

There have been many names for it through the years, such as manual, standard, stick shift, or three- to six-speed. No matter what you call it, this type of transmission is becoming less and less popular in the US. Many drivers don't even know how to use it.

Manual transmissions have several advantages, including:

• With this type of transmission, the driver has increased control over the vehicle's operation.
• A manual transmission consumes less fuel than an automatic transmission.
• Manual transmission vehicles are cheaper on average than those with other transmissions.
• The cost of repairing a manual transmission is lower than repairing an automatic transmission.

Automatic Transmission

In contrast to a manual transmission, an automatic transmission requires no input from the driver to shift through gears. It doesn't require a stick shift or clutch pedal. Automatic gear changes occur as the car accelerates and decelerates.

This transmission uses a torque converter, planetary gearset, and clutches to shift gears automatically. Although some modes allow the driver more control, the most common are neutral, drive, and reverse.

An automatic transmission is popular for the following reasons:

• Learning to drive an automatic transmission car is easier since there are no shifting steps to learn.
• It is seamless and smooth to drive with an automatic transmission.
• Automatic transmissions are good for stop-and-go traffic in cities.

Continuously Variable Transmission

New vehicles typically have a continuously variable transmission or CVT. You may find it available on compact SUVs or smaller cars as you shop. Instead of fixed gears, a CVT uses belts and pulleys. A CVT also has unlimited gear ratios.

Nissan vehicles are equipped with XTRONIC Transmission with D-Step Logic Control. In this CVT, D-Step Logic Control is a program that determines the optimal gear ratio based on various factors, including vehicle speed, application speed, and accelerator pedal position.

Nissan's XTRONIC transmission offers the following advantages:

• A stronger start-up acceleration and seamless merging or passing on highways.
• Nissan, with this transmission, offers smooth and quiet cruising.
• Cars with XTRONIC transmission are fuel-efficient.
• There's no need for gear hunting; you always drive in the right gear.

Semi-Automatic Transmission

A semi-automatic transmission lets the driver choose which gears to shift between, similar to manual transmissions. However, there is no stick shift; the driver uses buttons or paddles. They are usually located on or near the steering wheel. Additionally, a sensor does the shifting for the driver, so the clutch pedal is not needed. A semi-automatic is becoming more common in vehicles.

Among the benefits of this transmission are:

• A semi-automatic transmission combines the advantages of manual and automatic transmissions. You can also shift gears without learning manual driving.
• This transmission type will give you good control over your vehicle.
• In sports cars and other high-performance vehicles, a semi-automatic transmission is ideal.

Shop at Briggs Nissan for Your Next Vehicle

To drive safely, you need to feel comfortable and in control. Understanding the four types of transmissions will help you select the one that is most suitable for your driving style.

However, if you need help choosing a transmission type, the team at Briggs Nissan in Manhattan, KS, is here to help. Our experts will explain the benefits of each transmission type and show you which vehicles have which types. Come by today and start shopping for your next car.