Originally Posted by 14Accent
I work on a LOT of Subaru's (not dealer level, but a fair amount). I've seen exactly one CVT fail. So, I wouldn't say it's a huge problem but it's not inconsequential. Subaru extended the warranty more for "customer satisfaction" than anything, which I thought was very loyal of them, all things considered.
That being said, I absolutely can not STAND how Subaru has their CVT's programmed. I don't really care for any CVT, however when it's paired with a smooth engine... say a Nissan VQ for example, it's actually not so bad. When paired with a noisy, under-powered flat-4 in a heavy AWD wagon, it flat out ruins the drive. Even the new Corolla's that have the "fake shifts" programmed in feel better.
e .
Just my .02
I think the programing on the wife's crosstrek is "relatively" excellent. Plus, FUJI uses a small "creeper" converter** with a big clutch pack, so there is NO slushbox once you get moving 5-7mph. It locks up the clutch in first gear and you have solid drive with NO FLUID COUPLING.
Yes the Crosstrek is underpowered on the highway but its very responsive around town.
I am a confirmed slushbox hater. and driving a stick again after a NIssan CVT.
But some AT in my experience have been acceptable in day to day trials.
I think the best autotrans on a 4 cyl compact car i had driven was the 1995 Ford Contour 2 litre.
A 2012 2.0 Kia Forte 4 door I had for a rental for a week in Ft Myers was very decent also.
IN fact it was by far the best compact car I had driven to date.
ã•ã‚ˆãªã‚ Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic.
to mechanically decouple the trans from the engine when idling around or in S&G traffic