A CVT drive train having an input drive, a start-up element, a continuously variable variator, and a differential. A direct shifting stage bridges the variator and is connected directly to the input drive. The direct connection of the direct shifting stage to the input drive enables the direct shifting stage to be used advantageously independently of the start-up element and can be connected, for example, to a gear that is used in conventional CVT drive trains to drive a hydraulic pump.