it can be expensive to repair or replace a CVT. Search the website www.carcomplaints.com and you'll find a number of common issues with CVTs. These include overheating, slipping, jerking, shuddering, and a sudden loss of acceleration.

This point alone invalidates any benefit that a CVT might have. Simple fact is that they are not nearly as reliable as a traditional automatic. Holding all things equal, when choosing between two cars, it's always better to avoid the one with a CVT.

Marginally better fuel economy, and better power delivery in what is still ultimately a soulless econobox do not make up for the higher possibility of expensive transmission problems.