March 24, 2008
Audi Develops Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission
AUBURN HILLS, MI – The dual-clutch DSG automatic currently available in several U.S. Volkswagens
and Audi's has earned great reviews for its smoothness and lightning-quick gear
changes. Audi has now unveiled an entirely new seven speed, twin-clutch
system built specifically for the luxury maker’s lineup, according to www.motortrend.com.
Like the
six-speed DSG, the transmission will be dubbed “S-Tronic” in Audi’s
lineup. VW recently rolled out its own seven-speed DSG, but Audi said its
new unit was developed entirely in-house. Designed to work with Audi’s
quattro all-wheel-drive and longitudinally-mounted engines, it will be offered
across the maker’s mid-range model lineup. The gearbox offers fully automatic
and sport modes, with manual gear-changing available via the shift lever or a
rocker switch on the steering wheel.