Toyota Prius CVT automatic

It wasn’t long ago that the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) was seen as the future for automatic gearboxes. With its theoretically infinite number of ratios, it promised unrivalled performance and efficiency. Yet developments in torque convertor autos and the rise of twin-clutch transmissions has left the CVT in the shade.

However, if you’re willing to learn and are happy to adapt your driving style, then this clever gearbox makes plenty of sense. It works particularly well in the Prius, where the combination of electric power and ‘stepless’ ratios make for smooth progress. Once you learn to use the powertrain’s torque and to gently squeeze the throttle, the petrol/electric Toyota Prius can become strangely satisfying to drive.

Best automatic cars 

• • Volkswagen Polo DSG automatic
• • Jaguar F-Pace eight-speed automatic
• • Smart ForTwo six-speed twinamic
• • Porsche 911 PDK
• • SEAT Leon DSG automatic
• • BMW 3 Series eight-speed auto
• • Toyota Prius CVT automatic
• • Mercedes S-Class 7G-tronic
• • Tesla Model S
• • McLaren 650S