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When you start looking for a car, you must consider several factors like the engine power, drivetrain, etc. Another important factor you should consider is transmission. Although there are still many cars that have a manual transmission, the world is slowly shifting towards automatic transmission cars.

Automatic transmission cars have been developing for many years. So, there are quite a few options for automatic transmission today, and each of them can make a huge difference in performance and fuel efficiency. Therefore, if you want to choose an automatic car, you will first need to know the differences between each system.

There are four main types of automatic transmission technologies, Torque Converter, Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). To determine which one is the best choice for you, let's look at each type of transmission system individually.

1. Torque Converter

The torque converter is the oldest type of automatic transmission in cars. It uses two turbines connected to the engine and connected to the transmission instead of a clutch. Fluid is used to transfer power from one turbine to the other. These automatic transmission systems are highly efficient and very convenient.

Torque converters are completely silent and very smooth, unlike manual transmissions. Moreover, they give a lot of torque at the start, allowing you to accelerate your car quickly yet smoothly. Additionally, due to the use of fluids in the transmission box, there is no overheating of the parts.

Torque converter cars are usually a bit more expensive than manual transmission cars, but many people prefer them due to their smoothness and efficiency.

2. AMT

Automated Manual Transmission systems are one of the most affordable types of automatic transmission. Cars that use AMT are usually much cheaper than cars that use Torque converter systems or CVT systems. AMT systems are also not as efficient as other automatic transmission systems, but they are better than a manual transmission system.

AMT cars are also referred to as semi-automatic cars because they have the option to change the gear manually or allow the computer to do it. Once you engage the car to an automatic mode, the AMT will push the clutch and shift the gears automatically for you.

One of the major benefits of an AMT is its fuel-efficient design. Since the car's computer automatically chooses the right gear, it can easily save a lot of fuel where possible. Moreover, you can manually control the gear if you want to, allowing for better fuel saving.

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3. CVT

A CVT car technically does not have any gear or clutch, as it uses a pulley system to allow for an infinite gear ratio. In a CVT system, the gear ratio changes contentiously depending on the car's speed. In a CVT car, you cannot feel a gear change, which allows for a quieter and smoother experience. 

CVT systems are also highly efficient at keeping constant engine speed, which helps save fuel.

Many people like the quitter and smoother experience, but some feel that it does not allow enough control.

4. DCT

DCT systems are also often called Direct Shift Gearbox, and they are one of the most advanced automatic car technologies in the market today. DCT system uses two sets of gears divided into odd and even groups of 1,3,5 and 2,4,6. Two separate clutches control each group. DCT systems offer more accurate gear shifts, and it's highly efficient.

DCT systems allow the user to change the gear fast, which is why they are commonly used on high-end cars to achieve a smoother, more efficient performance. Enthusiastic drivers who want better transmission control can choose a DCT car.

People who like to control the transmission for fuel efficiency can also greatly benefit from a DCT system.

To conclude

Automatic cars have gained popularity over the last few years because they are easier to control and safer in certain situations. However, first-time buyers are often confused and cannot determine which transmission is ideal for them due to so many choices. Therefore, you should always learn about the options before buying an automatic car.

Which type of automatic transmission car you want to buy depends entirely on your personal preferences. However, it's always important to keep in mind that the transmission type can affect your car's performance and fuel efficiency.

As the world is shifting towards automatic transmission cars entirely, it's important to be educated about the different types and how they work. Doing so will help you make better choices while buying your next used car