Ford freestyle, now the dodge caliber UPDATE!

[POINTER94]

Dodge now has its own version of a CVT available in their new small hatchback. Is this a trend and does it provide some kind of benefit? It must be somewhat more efficient. Nice looking little car. Wife asked if it had a hemi.. <br /><br />link:<br /><br /> dodge.com/en/caliber/index.html<br /><br />Edit: Do I need to explain. . . again?

 

[QC]

Re: Ford freestyle, now the dodge caliber UPDATE!

With absolutely no sarcasm whatsoever, CVTs are a Green House Gas fighter.<br /><br />Fine print: This post is not intended as an endorsement or admission that so called Green House Gasses contribute to Global Warming. It is also not an admission or confirmation that measures to combat Global Warming (GWRMs) have a snowball's chance in heck of making any measurable difference.

 

[kenimpzoom]

Re: Ford freestyle, now the dodge caliber UPDATE!

CVT's are actually great for high performance.<br /><br />Keeps the revs right in the power band. As opposed to gear changes which can drop the RPMs too low.<br /><br />Ken

 

[QC]

Re: Ford freestyle, now the dodge caliber UPDATE!

Yup. Either way, performance or efficiency, CVTs are the real deal.

 

[POINTER94]

Re: Ford freestyle, now the dodge caliber UPDATE!

Based on my snowmobile I couldn't agree more, based on my 0-60 times in my Freestyle I'm not sure. Either way the freestyle is a rock solid little ride. It is interesting as you can change the engagement point on a snowmobile I would imagine in time you will be able to adjust the transmission in cars to best meet your driving style.<br /><br />(Uncompensated, unsolicited endorsement by a less than rank amatuer about personal experience derivied from a limited exposure to and only relating to a single (1) vehicle of which is green in color. This is not a direct indication of future reliability or enjoyment.)

 

[ufm82]

Re: Ford freestyle, now the dodge caliber UPDATE!

After driving a 500 with the CVY I would have to say that it would take some getting used to. I kept waiting for the thing to shift! It felt weird to have the engine singing, the car accelerating but no rpm change at a shift point. I kept scooting my butt on the seat saying "shift, shift..." However, it was smooth and quiet. Passing was another odd sensation. When you mash the pedal, it just feels like the tranny fell out- a mushy slipping sensation. But the car sped up nicely and worked fine. <br /><br /> Like I said- it would take getting used to. I also wonder about longevity. Golf carts use the same system basically and belt life can be an issue. I know the Fords use a "woven chain" arrangement sort of and I don't know how they'll last. Pretty simple set-up though with a lot less mess. <br /><br />UFM82

 

[Boomyal]

Re: Ford freestyle, now the dodge caliber UPDATE!

My understanding is that CVT's are not a perfected art yet. While excellent in principle, they are just now being tried on less powerful cars. I'm sure, like the automatic transmission, they will eventually be able to handle any power range.

 

[POINTER94]

Re: Ford freestyle, now the dodge caliber UPDATE!

I just watched the local news and the Calibre is selling much better than expected. It is made in Belvedere, IL. Great news for the local economy. It is to the point where you have to order and place a deposit to get one.<br /><br />And dispite the hatred of large SUV's the suburban and tahoe are also selling very well. The tahoe/suburban are manufactured here in Janesville. Great news in a depressing domestic auto market. And great news for the local economy. <br /><br />SUPPORT POINTERS PROPERTY VALUE. BUY A TAHOE.