[Xist]

Originally Posted by MetroMPG

I also did a bit of math yesterday and guess what the "payback" period is for the ~$1000 CVT option vs. the 5-speed manual (based strictly on the EPA ratings). ~9 years!

That is based on the amount that you drive or someone else?

Originally Posted by MetroMPG

In sub/urban use, I think you're probably right.

But not on the open road: the CVT is geared to run the engine almost 1000 RPM lower than the manual at 65 MPH. And that sucks (for manual transmission lovers).

Mitsu should offer an "eco" 5-speed for economy enthusiasts.

Why would they gear their car to use such high RPM on the highway? Everybody drives on the highway sooner or later and some drive highway speeds on city streets!

Is there some kind of CVT agenda?!

I consider myself old and grumpy, so I hate everything, but it bothers me how many people think that automatics are now more efficient than manuals.

Do any of you remember the "Turbo XT?" My first computer was one and a friend pointed out that there was not any special hardware whatsoever. It was not a turbo, you just turned off the slow mode!

CVTs are more efficient than normal automatics, but the only reason that they are more efficient than manuals is because those were made even less efficient!