VW'S 7-SPEED DSG/DCT MEANS HIGHER MILEAGE, BETTER CONTROL

Five years ago, Volkswagen began manufacture of the first mass-production Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) in the world: the 6-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG). The names of the units are interchangeable. Since then, over one million 6-speed DSGs have been sold. VW now has developed another all-new transmission, the world’s first 7-speed DSG to be produced in high-volume. For many drivers, VW says this could signify the final turn away from conventional transmissions, because this new DSG can do everything better than a manual gearbox, being more fuel efficient, sporty and comfortable.

The most prominent component of the DSG is its dual clutch. In comparison to the 6-speed DSG, there is no "wet" clutch in the new transmission –  a clutch immersed in an oil bath – rather, there is a "dry" clutch, another world first for DSG technology. This and other engineering modifications led to significant improvements to the DSG’s efficiency. The result: Further reduced fuel consumption and emissions values, even greater convenience and driving fun.

Of all the world's car-makers, Volkswagen seems most interested in getting this technology out to the drivers of the world. This automatic transmission system offers benefits including small improvements in gas mileage and emissions, through an end to the wasteful "idle" during gear changes in automatics. It also makes for better handling because the drive wheels are always directly connected to the power being transmitted by the engine on both up and down shifts.