2017 Audi S4 Won't Get Dual-clutch Automatic, or Manual
Raphael Orlove over at Jalopnik has fine, fine reporting that the next-generation Audi S4 will sport a conventional 8-speed torque converter automatic instead of the company’s 7-speed dual-clutch unit.
The reason? The S4’s new turbocharged, 3-liter V-6 that produces 354 horsepower creates just enough torque (368.8 pounds-feet of torque, to be exact) to disqualify the automated manual. According to Orlove, the automaker didn’t rule out a DSG in the S4’s future, but said it just won’t be available at launch next year.
Even with the traditional 8-speed, the S4 still packs a punch. According to the automaker, the car will run up to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, and its disconnecting, free-wheeling transmission will help the car achieve nearly 32 mpg.
According to Audi, the S4 sedan — but not the Avant — will go on sale in the States next year.
Also: No manual.
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The real question will be whether the RS4 sedan we get in the U.S. gets a manual option. As the true enthusiast oriented model it seems more likely to get one.
Finally the TT V6 engines are making (almost) as much HP per liter as the 4 cylinder engines. I don't trust Audi very much though in regards to reliability.
EVOLUTION Supply & Demand Survival of The Fittest Nature never spoke truer truths. The 4-door sedan is being killed by the crossover. The manual IS ALREADY DEAD. It just doesn't know it yet. The small car is growing larger. It's as I foretold...
Eventually, every new transmission will "freewheel" when appropriate. It will not be straight-forward what level of appropriate is best but if applied correctly it could be a massive efficiency boost.