Audi, a German manufacturer of luxury vehicles, introduced two different types of transmissions for their cars: CVT and dual transmission. As one of the leading luxury car manufacturers, the transmissions offered are some of the best, engineered to perfection to provide quality performance on the road.
Irrespective of transmission types, they are notable for their efficiency in their gear-ratio spread, providing various Audi owners with an efficient driving experience. While both transmissions are great on the road, there are key differences that set them apart.
In this article, learn more about the differences between CVT and dual transmission for an Audi to find the best model for you.
What Is Audi CVT Gearbox?
An Audi CVT or Continuous Variable Transmission has no fixed gears, meaning that it runs without traditional gears but instead with two pulleys connected by a belt. While one pulley connects to the car’s engine, the other is connected to the transmission and wheels.
The pulley system in CVT is designed to change sizes infinitely, which is achieved by having each pulley shaped like a cone. When starting a vehicle, the belt nearest to the transmission is at the widest end of the pulley, while the belt nearest to the engine is at the narrowest end. As more speed is picked up, the belt shifts to opposite ends to pump power from the engine to the wheels.
Advantages Of CVT Gearbox
CVT gearbox has been around for decades, providing various luxury vehicles, including Audi, with excellent efficiency on the road. To learn more about CVT, here are the advantages of the transmission type:
- Efficiency: CVTs provide a smooth and continuous range of gear shifts, optimising the engine’s performance and fuel efficiency.
- Smooth Acceleration: The seamless transition between gears results in a smoother and more comfortable driving experience than dual transmissions.
- Optimal RPM Range: CVTs allow the engine to operate at its most efficient RPM, enhancing overall fuel economy and performance.
- Reduced Maintenance: With fewer moving parts and no fixed gears, CVTs may experience lower wear and tear, potentially reducing maintenance costs.
- Improved Power Delivery: The continuous variability of gear ratios ensures that the engine delivers power more consistently, especially during acceleration.
Disadvantages Of CVT Gearbox
While CVTs offer numerous advantages, they also have some drawbacks:
- Discontinued Transmission: Audi has decided to discontinue the CVT transmission for new and upcoming models, where servicing or maintenance for it might be difficult in the future.
- Perceived Lag and “Rubber-Band” Effect: Some may find that CVTs can exhibit a delay in response when driving, and there may be a sensation of the engine revving without an increase in vehicle speed, often referred to as the “rubber-band” effect.
- Reduced Driving Engagement: If you enjoy the feeling of shifting gears, you may find CVTs less engaging, as they lack the distinct gear changes found in other transmissions.
- Durability Concerns: The downside is that the absence of gears might not be as durable in high-torque or high-stress situations.
- Complexity: Its intricate design might reduce wear and tear, but the belts and pulley system make it more complex, leading to higher repair costs as DIY maintenance would be difficult.
- Heat Sensitivity: CVTs can be sensitive to overheating, which may occur under heavy loads, towing or high-stress situations. Overheating can lead to accelerated wear and potential damage to the transmission components.
What Is Audi Dual Transmission?
An Audi dual transmission has two clutches that help manage gears. It is an advanced mechanism that separates the clutches to shift gears, where one engages with one gear while the other prepares the next gear for a smooth and seamless shift in gears.
Dual transmissions in Audi vehicles are designed to offer lightning-fast yet smooth gear shifts, popular amongst high-performing Audi models. It reduces the time the clutch takes to move from gear to gear. When one clutch prepares the first gear, the other prepares the second gear in position. That said, it is no surprise that the dual transmission mechanism is what you can find now in new Audi vehicles.
Advantages Of Dual Transmission
A dual transmission is an automated manual transmission that combines elements of both automatic and manual transmissions. Here are some advantages of dual-clutch transmissions:
- Quick and Smooth Shifts: Dual transmissions provide fast and seamless gear changes, enhancing acceleration and overall driving experience. This is because they can pre-select the next gear, allowing immediate shifts without interrupting power delivery.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency: The efficiency of gear changes and the ability to optimise engine RPM contribute to better fuel economy than other transmissions.
- Manual Control with Automatic Convenience: Dual transmissions offer manual gear selection, allowing drivers more control over the shifting process when desired. However, they still provide the convenience of automatic operation for those who prefer it.
- Reduced Power Loss: It often experiences less power loss during gear changes, as the dual-clutch system enables a more direct power transfer.
- Enhanced Performance: The rapid and precise gear changes contribute to improved acceleration and overall performance, making them popular in sportier and high-performance vehicles.
Disadvantages Of Dual Transmission
Dual transmissions offer several advantages, but they also have some drawbacks:
- Learning Curve: Some drivers may take time to adjust to the driving characteristics of a dual transmission, especially in situations where the transmission pre-selects gears differently than a traditional transmission.
- Limited Torque Handling: While dual transmissions are well-suited for many applications, some may have limitations in handling extreme torque levels. This can be a consideration in heavy-duty vehicles.
- Potential for Jerky Low-Speed Operation: In certain driving conditions, such as low-speed manoeuvres or stop-and-go traffic, dual transmissions may exhibit some jerkiness, which can be less smooth than traditional automatic transmissions.
- Maintenance and Repair Costs: Repairs can be more expensive than other transmissions. Specialised knowledge and tools are often required, as not all automotive technicians are equally familiar with dual-clutch systems.
- Potential for Clutch Wear: While it is designed for durability, the clutches in these transmissions can still experience wear over time, particularly in situations involving frequent stop-and-go driving or aggressive acceleration.
Looking for a reliable auto parts store in Malaysia?
Are you looking for a reliable auto parts store to replace your Audi gearbox? Look no further than Sun Eng Hup, one of Malaysia’s largest used and new automotive replacement parts companies. We offer a wide range of replacement parts, including CVTs and dual transmissions, with a warranty period covering rebuilt, remanufactured and used parts.
At Sun Eng Hup, we specialise in used and new auto parts with modern and quality Automobile Diagnostic equipment to ensure that the problems you have with your vehicle can be solved effectively and efficiently. Contact us about our services here today.