IMO, in theory, a perfect CVT with proper programming should be better than a perfect shifted transmission, even with a perfect driver or computer. Funny thing is, the manual Insights are listed as the top MPG cars on GreenHybrid. I'm think that's because some hypermiling tricks, like lugging the engine at low RPM, are easier to do with full manual control of shifting. With the Prius, your main control is limited to the right foot. For most people, I suspect the CVT gives better mileage, but manual still gives best performance in the right hands. I've also had manual in all previous cars but one, bought for busy city driving. I like the manual control and I like saving money. But I'm thrilled to finally own a car with a CVT. I read about them decades ago and admired their ability to provide better acceleration as well as better efficiency. Win, win, and smooth with no shift points. I don't have a NEED to keep my right hand and clutch foot moving; I'm happy to have a CVT so I can concentrate more on MPG and driving safety.
I'd agree but add a disclaimer that no CVT (that I know of) has been designed for best performance. No...wait...do Formula One cars have a CVT? (or NASCAR, for that matter?) ZC1
Hi Michael, It probably helps that the Honda Insight weighs 1,847 lb while the Prius is more than 1,000 lb more, at 2,932 lb. Honda Insight - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Toyota Prius - 2008 Performance & Specifications
It also has only 2 seats so when consumption is divided by seating capacity I think the Prius wins. Of course if you have no kids or only 1 friend the Insight is the car for you. It also makes a great 1 or 2 occupant commuter if you have a bigger car for the times you want to take 2 or more friends for a drive.
Not yet. I think there are power limits with current CVTs. Haven't heard of one yet handling over 200 HP, perhaps 150-160 is max now ? Anyway, look at this: Hybrid Mileage Database - GreenHybrid Insight CVT: 57 MPG Insight manual: 64 MPG I believe manual was only on the earlier Insights.
Hi Michael, This illustrates another great aspect of the Hybrid Synergy Drive design, which is that it is scalable up & down to produce a wide variety of power for different applications. I do not think that this is sufficiently appreciated by Prius owners. The Prius system produces 110 hp. The Camry Hybrid system produces ~190 hp. The Highlander Hybrid system produces 270 hp. The Lexus GS hybrid produces 340 hp. The Lexus LS hybrid produces 438 hp.
I've driven manual for 35 years, and the Prius CVT made me forget about manual fast. Shifting around town and on hills was becoming a pain in the neck to me, anyways.Not so much fun anymore. You drive manual partly because of gas savings. But that isn't necessary with a Prius. The big advantage is driving around town--the city mileage penalty ICE cars have isn't there with a Prius. partly because the engine shuts off at traffic lights, etc. And the ICE component seems to heat up pretty quickly. Besides, you are using more electrical at low speeds, anyways. Perfect for around town.
Nissan offers the XTRONIC CVT with 185 kW (252 PS) engine. NISSAN | Nissan Launches New Teana Luxury Sedan NISSAN | TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES | Overview | XTRONIC CVT Ken@Japan
Cool, OK, I was thinking thoughts from 10-15 years ago perhaps when only small low power cars had CVTs and they were belt or cone or whatever and had limited power handling before slipping. I guess the HSD with it's constantly meshed gears just needs beefier gears to scale up in power. Very cool.
This, plus a bigger MG2, traction battery, and ICE. When you consider the small production runs of the Lexus models, it is amazing that Toyota can profitably produce HSD for those cars.
Sorry, I was on vacation and then got back and posted and have been swamped at work and that will continue through at least October....field season. So, I don't really understand the technology and I don't even know what you are all talking about via CVT....but then I have not read Patrick's primer either, which I will try to do in the next few days. Just, as I said, manual transmissions were the gas savers long ago, which was why that was all my dad had and why he trained all of us on manual rigs. And, no Kevin does not get too close to my Prius, even now, although I did let him drive ME to Eugene, OR the other day, because I was tired. He insists on listening to "Car Talk" on the radio tho...and while Tom and Ray can be fun at times, most of the time they are lame. So, probably won't post much for the next few months, but you have a lot of Prius converts to keep you company....and as for the rodents. NONE for the PAST MONTH. I think Boo and I got them with our Mice Potion #9. And, yes, Patrick, that attachment is staring at me. I think on Saturday it would be a good day.... Love (some of you!! -- you argue about who!!!!) K.
