Audi Auto Clutch vs S-Tronic/DSG

[Ginger2003]

Hello chaps

I'm currently looking at getting an A3 2.0 TDI but am a little confused. When looking on the Audi approved used locator, some cars are listed as having S-Tronic transmission (which I understand to be another name for DSG) and some are listed as "Auto Clutch".

Are these just different names for the same thing or is there a difference? I know and like DSG, having test driven a Golf GTi with that system. However I definitely don't want something like the BMW SMG box fitted to E46 M3s.

Can someone enlighten me please?

Thanks

[Tame Technician]

Ginger2003 said:

Hello chaps

I'm currently looking at getting an A3 2.0 TDI but am a little confused. When looking on the Audi approved used locator, some cars are listed as having S-Tronic transmission (which I understand to be another name for DSG) and some are listed as "Auto Clutch".

Are these just different names for the same thing or is there a difference? I know and like DSG, having test driven a Golf GTi with that system. However I definitely don't want something like the BMW SMG box fitted to E46 M3s.

Can someone enlighten me please?

Thanks

I can tell you All A3 2.0TDI's with auto trans are DSG
(DSG is a VW term "S-tronic" is the Audi's lable for it)


Why didnt you like SMG, I think DSG drives similar to that, advise you read the DSG Marmite threads and take a long test drive before you commit funds. I'd have a manual over DSG any day.

http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...

http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...

[Ginger2003]

I liked the DSG because the changes were nice and smooth and you have the option to just use it as an auto if you want.

The BMW SMG being an automatically actuated manual box, was very hard to drive smoothly at slow speed. Round town it does this kind of nodding dog. Also, it has no "D" setting where it just does the gear changes for you - which kind of makes you think why not just get a manual?

[Lucas Ayde]

I've got a TT with DSG (or S-Tronic as Audi call it) and I love the technology.

In day to day use, it has the convenience of an automatic in 'D' mode but if you want performance the 'S' mode is great - or for total control go to sequential manual shift. You can also override automatic modes at any time using the paddles.

Gear changes are lightening quick and produce a pleasing 'burp' sound in the exhaust note when done under acceleration.

Comparing the stats, the DSG offers slightly better performance, economy and CO2 emissions (2.0TFSi TT).

The main factor against would be the allegedly higher problem rate. There are no hard figures available but going by forum posts you are more likely to experience mechanical issues than with a manual box and given the complexity of the technology, this sounds entirely plausible.

Also, some don't like the fact that the box will shift up when you redline the engine RPMs (to protect the engine) and won't shift into a gear that would redline the engine.


Personally, I wouldn't want to go back to a manual box if possible. Mind you, I definitely wouldn't go to a standard slushbox auto either. I definitely think that this sort of tech is the future and you can see many top-end performance cars starting to use similar systems as standard.

[Dr G]

Ginger2003 said:

I liked the DSG because the changes were nice and smooth and you have the option to just use it as an auto if you want.

The BMW SMG being an automatically actuated manual box, was very hard to drive smoothly at slow speed. Round town it does this kind of nodding dog. Also, it has no "D" setting where it just does the gear changes for you - which kind of makes you think why not just get a manual?

Agreed, automated manuals (a la SMG, R-Tronic, E-Gear etc.) are pretty crap unless you're ragging the arse off the car.

[worsy]

I've got the DSG box in my S4 and love it, however I did try a DSG equipped A3 diesel some years back and thought it rubbish. Possibly the diesel didn't suit.