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Hi guys,

I'm considering buying a freshly imported Toyota Auris (or the Fielder wagon or Axio sedan variant) or a Toyota Vitz - so, a second hand import from Japan. I'm looking at 2007 or newer models with under 80,000 kms. My understanding is that these cars virtually always come with a CVT transmission.

Is there any consensus on whether the CVT transmissions on these cars are reliable or not? If they're not any good I would probably look for a NZ new Corolla or Yaris instead (but would welcome any other suggestions for a car of a similar age that might suit my needs).

Cheers

Hi there,
I've not received any complaints about Toyota CVT transmissions, so not aware of any being problematic. But yes you are right, all the imports seem to have a cvt.
Maybe also look at the Mazda 2, Demio?

Hi Cade,

Thanks for this. Does the Mazda 2/Demio typically come with a conventional automatic transmission?

A friend suggested a Nissan Tiida could be an alternative. But I've heard rumours that a number of second hand import Tiidas from Japan come with a CVT with a poor reputation. Does that sound right to you?

Cheers
Hugh

Hi Hugh,
I would stay away from the Tiida, purely because of the cvt transmission. Not all give trouble, but I wouldn't want to take the risk.
The NZ Mazda 2 has a 1500cc engine and conventional transmission.
The import Demio's have either transmission types 1.3 and 1.5 ltr engines.
Mazda seem to have a good run with their cvt's and not really prone to complaints.

Cheers Cade - thanks for your help.

Hugh