Audi Leaves CVTs Behind For Dual-Clutch Automatics

Cameron Aubernon
by Cameron Aubernon

CVT haters, rejoice: Audi’s latest set of Multitronic CVTs will be the automaker’s last.

According to The Motor Report, the automaker believes it has done all it can with CVTs, and will instead focus on the S-tronic dual-clutch automatic family of transmissions. Both the S-tronic and traditional automatic offerings will fill the void left behind when the models so equipped with Multitronic are updated or replaced.

However, Audi may also do away with the traditional automatic, as well. Currently, the automaker is hard work on an S-tronic built to handle the torque loads and AWD that are being handled by eight-speed autos at present. No word on when the traditional auto’s day may come to pass.

Cameron Aubernon
Cameron Aubernon

Seattle-based writer, blogger, and photographer for many a publication. Born in Louisville. Raised in Kansas. Where I lay my head is home.

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  • Tankinbeans Tankinbeans on Jul 25, 2014

    Has the engineering author, not sure of his name, done a write-up of how DCTs work and CVTs? I've read around online and have gotten the very dry, very meandering explanations. I have the DCT in the Escape and really enjoy it, especially when revving high. No, I don't pretend this is a sports car, but it makes getting on the freeway a bit entertaining. The only experience I have in a CVT was the 2008 Sentra and that thing was a load of bollocks.

    • Timur Apakidze Timur Apakidze on Jul 26, 2014

      I have not done a write-up on DCTs or CVTs. DCTs are essentially two manual transmissions lumped into one box.

  • Cabriolet Cabriolet on Jul 25, 2014

    I have the DSG in my 2011 VW GTI and i love it. I have driven manual for over 60 years and after retiring and my wife unable to drive a manual any more i tested a DSG and noticed i could not shift as fast as this transmission. To be honest i don't even feel it shifting unless i look at the tech and see the RPM's dropping with each shift. Also the DSG gets better mileage then the manual. The only drawback is the transmission has to have the fluid and filter changed every 40,000 miles. I will be doing mine in the fall. About 45 minutes work and the change kit cost all of $110.00. I have my Miata Manual for the weekends. Another thing i like is getting on to a highway with the pedal to the floor and hearing the small backfire during every shift.

  • V6 V6 on Jul 25, 2014

    i really had no idea Audi was still using CVT's, thought they gave up late last decade when the A4/A6 were replaced

  • DrGastro997 DrGastro997 on Jul 26, 2014

    Thanks Audi because I still don't want a car with a CVT. I need the feel of shifts, smooth ones. However, it'd be nice if they adopted the dual clutch 7 or 8 speed from Aisin. Current Audi trans seem to be a big hit or miss. My 911 has a PDK made by Aisin and it's the best I've had yet with no issues. Anyway, good move Audi!

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