VW’s DSG box goes mainstream, gets another cog

Newswheel staff :: 29 May 2007 :: Filed under Volkswagen, Europe & UK

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DSG for all

Paddle-operated robot gearboxes are not exactly the best solution for an immersive driving experience. But if you must go semi-auto, VW’s dual-clutch DSG box is one the very best. And it just got better. On paper, at least. VW has announced a new variant of DSG with seven speeds and a new dry-clutch configuration.

Previous versions of the DSG box have used a pair of clutches submerged in oil to provide cooling and longevity. The new box receives a pair of dry, organic bonded friction linings which VW claims “that do not require cooling, making the drivetrain more efficient through the extra ratio and the fact that less power is required for the gear selection and clutch servo system.” Cue much rejoicing.

Just as important, the new DSG is said to be more compact and lightweight than before at 369mm in length and tipping the scales at 79kg including a dual-mass flywheel. That allows the new box to drop into a wide range of VW models from the Polo to the Passat. DSG, in other words, is about to go mainstream.

There’s just one catch, however.  This latest version of the DSG box is limited to outputs of 170hp and 184lb/ft.

Production of the new box is pencilled in for later this year and will appear initially in the UK onboard the Golf 1.4 TSI and 1.9 TDI models. Over and out.