CVT has been around for a long time, think the first auto to use was the DAF Daffodil (1961) but has always been limited by the maximum power it could transmit since it is not geared but uses moving disks/pulleys and a belt/chain.
It appears that the Subaru unit is expected to handle 277 lb-ft of torque. Can find ratios
here.
For more than you ever wanted to know about an earlier (6 speed) version see
here.
Apparently they are able to create an illusion of gears by stopping the pulleys at fixed points.
Major drawback is poor efficiency compared to a lockup geared automatic. Since to get the max towing you have to go up from the base model. Interesting is that the Subaru is 6 inches longer than my Grand Cherokee.