General Motors to Kill Continually Variable Transmission

New 6-Speed Automatic to Replace CVT in 2006

In what seems like a move against current trends, General Motors will be

GM's continually variable transmission (CVT) will be dropped before the release of the 2006 Saturn VUE. (Photo: General Motors of Canada)

terminating its continually variable transmission (CVT) at the end of model year 2005.

For the time being, according to Tom Stephens, group vice president of GM Powertrain, GM's CVT will continue as the automatic transmission choice in all-wheel drive 2005 Saturn VUEs, but before 2006 models arrive it will be dropped. At this time GM's CVT will end production.

With regards to the ION Coupe, a 4-speed automatic transmission will be offered

The 2006 ION Coupe will feature a new 6-speed automatic transmission that GM is still developing. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

throughout 2006 when it will be replaced by a new 6-speed automatic which is reportedly still in developmental stages. The new 6-speed automatic is expected to be available in a variety of cars and small SUVs across GM's broad product line.

Is Stephens referring to a version of the upcoming 6-speed automatic expected from the GM-Ford joint venture (see Automotive News Archives: Apr 21, 2004 - GM and Ford Develop 6-Speed Automatic Gearbox in Cooperation)? While GM did not comment, Detroit News reported that a Ford spokesman made mention that his company was looking into using the co-developed transmission in other application, which include smaller vehicles.