I like the CVT and we have two in my signature. Both work a designed and complimentary of the cars personalities & mission. I suppose you could say that, since we have the means, if we wanted vehicles that were more engaging to drive, we would have bought vehicles that are more engaging to drive. But as they are, they're befitting of our environment and driving style.
Are these CVTs going to blowup? IDK however I have had regular/conventional/shiftable autos that did that! Like on the Lexus RX that had 7 ATF changes in the 150,000 life before it bit the dust. Or my Chrysler Newport/NewYorker or another Nissan 4 speed auto tranny that was on its way out. All trannies had beyond regular maintenance to the point of waste. So?...