S-Tronic twin-clutch automatic transmission

**02A4TURBO** · 09-29-2008 10:43 PM

Does anyone know how the new Audi system going into the B8 S4 will compare to Ferrari's widely acclaimed application? Both in technology and actual performance?

6spd driver thinking about converting to the dark-side of automatic and was curious.

Thanks...

**ibiski** · 09-30-2008 06:43 AM

It's not automatic, but rather automated manual. Unlike an automatic, the S-Tronic does not have a torque converter, but a hydraulically controlled clutch or in this case a dual clutch. Read the press release of the S4 for details. Even single clutch automated transmissions such as the DSG or SMG shift quicker than possible with a standard manual, so I'd presume this one will be even better.

**Postman** · 10-02-2008 09:29 PM

Originally Posted by ibiski

It's not automatic, but rather automated manual. Unlike an automatic, the S-Tronic does not have a torque converter, but a hydraulically controlled clutch or in this case a dual clutch. Read the press release of the S4 for details. Even single clutch automated transmissions such as the DSG or SMG shift quicker than possible with a standard manual, so I'd presume this one will be even better.

The DSG is a twin clutch, and my understanding is the S-tronic in the S4 will be basically the same set up as the DSG they've had since 2004 just for longitudinally mounted engines.

**DeMOROlized** · 10-02-2008 09:46 PM

Originally Posted by Postman

The DSG is a twin clutch, and my understanding is the S-tronic in the S4 will be basically the same set up as the DSG they've had since 2004 just for longitudinally mounted engines.

I believe even though it's also a twin clutch, the longitudinal S-tronic is a totally different design as the transverse one.

**vjma** · 10-02-2008 09:55 PM

First of all let's clear up a few facts.

The Ferrari/BMW (SMG) and most other semi-auto gearbox are single clutch systems. The first ever mass produced double clutch semi auto is the VW/Audi DSG and it was first used in the previous generation TT. For the differences and benefit of the DSG/S-tronics you can search the web and there are plenty of articles about it. In short however, no single clutch semi auto can be as good as a twin clutches one, ever. That is why all the other manufactures are going to a twin clutch unit now. BMW has their DCT and Ferrari is putting one in the new California. The GTR also has a twin clutch unit. Even the EVO X has one now.

The new 7 sp S-tronics in the B8 is a completely new design from the old 6 sp DSG and has a much higher capacity for torque and is designed to be used with longitudinal engine configuration.

My previous experience with the old 6 sp DSG in the Golf GTI is mixed. When going fast it is wonderful. Around town it can be frustrating sometimes as there is a slight lag when starting. Also the whole experience is as numb as driving an auto. If you are looking for driving fun then the manual is still way better. However, there is no denying that the DSG is faster and easier to drive. What one pick is a matter of priority.