Volkswagen’s 10-Speed DSG Gearbox is a Definite

Posted by Zach Doell  

@ BOLD RIDE                              

 

The automotive world moves fast. When one company pounces on an idea, another finds a more advanced way of doing it. Such is the story of Volkswagen’s new 10-speed DSG gearbox that could hit the road as early as 2015 underneath the new Passat (pictured in concept form below). 

The underlying concept is simple: the more gears available, the more an engine can tailor its RPM to maximize fuel economy. Conversely, if shifting is quick enough, it allows drivers to get on the power faster when their foot is plastered to the floor. No drawbacks…other than lots of shifting.

In an announcement to the International Motor Symposium in Vienna, Austria, VW Group Chairman Martin Winterkorn mentioned that the new transmission will play an integral part in improving fuel economy by 20 percent across the VW Group’s model range.

 That encompasses Audi, Bentley, Bugatti, Lamborghini, Porsche, SEAT and Skoda brands.

Given the wide array of possible applications, the 10-speed will have to be a competent bit of machinery.

 The transmission is pegged at managing up to 369 lb-ft of torque, which puts it in the realm of the Golf R 400 concept, but the gearbox’s frugal gas-sipping intention will most likely see it fitted to a smaller gas or diesel engine – at least initially.

VW fans will flock to the automaker’s annual Worthersee celebration in Austria next week for a hint of VW concepts to come. We wouldn’t be surprised if the double-digit gearbox makes the trip too.