[godwin]

CVT, you can imagine as an upgraded version of your sewing machine "gearbox". The "gears" are done by varying the diameters of the pulleys. In the basic modem, the car will sound like a sewing machine, because that's how it is supposed to be. The engine will be at constant rev all the time once you stop accelerating. However some manufacturers have put in a few programs that will make it sound more normal.

CVT gearbox is meant to be self contained, maintenance should be higher than regular automatic because you are supposed to replace it as a whole unit. Remember Japanese manufacturers assume during the service life of the vehicle, you take it to an authorized dealer instead to an indy dealer; so generally they don't publish detailed repair informations like their European counterparts.

Automatics are not as efficient as CVT (heavier, more friction surfaces and more complex). CVT is more lighter and gas efficient, that's why they are big in Japan where gas is expensive. However automatics can usually handle more torque and are easier to service.

CVT is most useful in Hybrids because the electric engine gives constant torque, not to mention for hybrid fuel efficiency is the bragging rights.

If it is a low powered car sub 150hp, even less torque. It doesn't matter, but it is something I suggest to buy only new.