Auto-Shift transmission?

[tehmarken]

I've seen this "paddle shift" thing before in some supercars, but never personally driven a car with them. I'm a little confused on exactly how they work, as opposed to a normal Automatic transmission, or compared to a normal Manual. Dose it get rid of using the clutch pedal?

[KarlMarkV]

I'm not positive but I'm pretty sure that when a car has the paddle-shift options its exactly the same thing as tip-tronic systems most automatics have now, the only difference is that the paddles are rite behind the wheel. This makes the car feel more like a race car. Also the paddle shift won't shift unless you hit the paddles, unlike tip-tronic systems that will shift automatically if you hold a rev for too long (correct me if I'm worng). This gives the driver the sense that they can drive standard or a race car. Sorry about the blow to the DSG system but I perfer the good ole 6 speed manual over electronic impulses, even though the DSG system is faster on the shift changes.

[clavos]

There are different paddle shift systems. The DSG is actually two manual transmissions in series. One operates the even gears and the other the odd. When you shift up or down the computer engages one clutch as the other is disengaged which is what allows for the lightening fast shifts. You can also use the console mounted lever to change gears, or leave it in full auto and let the computer do the work. I still prefer the manual too.

[Fast Freddie]

According to a VW trainer, the DSG can shift as fast as 8 milliseconds and VW actually down tuned it for the GTI to make it smoother for the general public. I haven't heard of any software mods associated with this yet, but I'm sure there will be.

[vwgti20v]

You also forgot to mention that the computer automatically rev matches for perfeclty precice shifting. You've got the skills of an F1 (actually better) driver right at your finger tips. No human can shift in less than a quarter of a second.

[PMAZ]

Originally Posted by vwgti20v

You also forgot to mention that the computer automatically rev matches for perfeclty precice shifting. You've got the skills of an F1 (actually better) driver right at your finger tips. No human can shift in less than a quarter of a second.

Considering that F1 drivers are working with damn near the same technology, I'd have to agree with you that it would be even quicker than an F1 driver on his own! Is this like other Auto-manual systems where it will stay in gear as long as your driving spirited? I'm curious... I'm also going to test drive one this week Too bad the dealer is so far from the track!

[DrJones]

Originally Posted by clavos

There are different paddle shift systems. The DSG is actually two manual transmissions in series. One operates the even gears and the other the odd. When you shift up or down the computer engages one clutch as the other is disengaged which is what allows for the lightening fast shifts. You can also use the console mounted lever to change gears, or leave it in full auto and let the computer do the work. I still prefer the manual too.

Technically, they're in parallel. And it's not so much two transmissions as it is 2 clutches.

[tboneus]

When it comes to the GTi I dont know if the DSG will obey you and stay in the gear you selected. But if the DSG runs the same as it does in the TT it will only shift if you tell it to no matter how you drive.

[Fast Freddie]

Originally Posted by tboneus

When it comes to the GTi I dont know if the DSG will obey you and stay in the gear you selected. But if the DSG runs the same as it does in the TT it will only shift if you tell it to no matter how you drive.

I believe you are right tboneus, I don't believe there is a safety mechanism. The dsg and the 6sp manual were both designed with performance drivers in mind. It allows you to do things that would be favorable on a track.

[blackgti06]

i think its cool but i pefer manual trans

[bizguy4u]

i think its cool but i pefer manual trans


Why?
Seriously why do you prefer it?
Have you driven the DSG?

[blackgti06]

no but id rather shift into gear and not flick the gear

[PMAZ]

Originally Posted by blackgti06

no but id rather shift into gear and not flick the gear

I'd rather just leave it in auto... I get enough shifts in everyday. If I never had to "heel - toe" again, I'd be happy!

[blackgti06]

i enjoy it took much to stop

[bizguy4u]

If you look at the top rated cars most are now paddle operated sequential transmission.
M5 smg
M6 smg
Ferrari are all mostly F1 paddle shift
The new Porsche Turbo is quicker with its paddle shift.

It is more complicated to use & be proficient to full effect than gear changing but certainly is cutting edge and proven to be quicker!

Go watch a F1 or even GP2 race and the changes are outstanding!

Go with technology! Dont fight it and become a luddite!

[blackgti06]

i know but id rather shift on my own you know

[Thalo]

If they made cars that were self-guiding on freeways, I'd still get a car with a normal steering wheel.

[blackgti06]

same here it is so much fun to shift on your own.

[bizguy4u]

Some may find this interesting viewing!

http://feies.com/daniel/?p=12

[blackgti06]

Still sticking with shifting

[sttaylor]

I test drove both an Auto & manual yesterday. My wife & I both like the manual more. I know the DSG is a great auto transmission & is faster 0-60 than a manual, but I know if I get the auto I will leave it in auto mode most of the time, & I like to
stomp on the accelerator without the "kickdown" that an auto does. Now if the auto trans would have a feature to bypass this behavior than maybe I would consider it, other than moving into manual mode.

[MicMoor77]

Originally Posted by sttaylor

I test drove both an Auto & manual yesterday. My wife & I both like the manual more. I know the DSG is a great auto transmission & is faster 0-60 than a manual, but I know if I get the auto I will leave it in auto mode most of the time, & I like to
stomp on the accelerator without the "kickdown" that an auto does. Now if the auto trans would have a feature to bypass this behavior than maybe I would consider it, other than moving into manual mode.

I'm not sure what that "kickdown" is that you are referring to but if you are about to stomp on the accelerator you can quickly tap the 'down' paddle and be off. You don't have to switch into manual mode to use the paddles. Anytime you want to shift just hit the paddles or tap the stick up/down. The system will automatically go back to full auto if you don't manually shift for like 30 seconds (I'm not actually certain on the time). If you put the stick in manual mode then you control the shifts all the time. It won't automatically upshift if your rpm is too high but it will automatically downshift as your rpm drops below about 1500. I think this is in case you forget to shift it will keep you in an appropriate gear.

Anyway, I have driven MT cars my whole life. I liked the DSG but wasn't sure if that is what I wanted. I finally decided on the DSG but it did take me a while to get used to it. Sure I still miss shifting but this new technology is way cool.

[sttaylor]

What I mean by kickdown is the auto tranny downshifting into the rpm stratosphere because you pressed the accelerator to the floor. If I was in stop & traffic a lot than the decision would be a no brainer, but luckely my commute isn't bad even though I live in ATL.

[Relentless]

When I purchase mine I think I'm going to opt for the DSG. Only because of the type of driving I do. Everyday city driving and then highway too, only it's usually rush hour so clutch in clutch out. And it gets tiring(especially after a leg workout at the gym). Oh by the way, I'm new on the site, so Hi to all!

[PMAZ]

Originally Posted by Thalo

If they made cars that were self-guiding on freeways, I'd still get a car with a normal steering wheel.

Honestly, I'd have to take some time to consider it...

[Mav4234]

I love my DSG! Allways had manual before, and I thought auto was for wusses... the DSG is the best of both worlds.. the control of a manual, and the ease of an auto.
Plus, when the car next to me is shifting, I'm still pulling away!...

[gtispas88]

these kinda posts are the ones that make it difficult for me to decide on which one to choose when i step into the dealer

[yee]

if ur obsessed with using both feet, get the manual. the dsg shifts faster and is more convenient for everyday driving, but nothing can beat driving manual. i did go with the dsg tho, because traffic to and from school is a pain in the ass, and the dsg is quicker.

[nitroburn]

Originally Posted by yee

but nothing can beat driving manual.

And I would say anything beats driving a manual... It's all opinion at this point.

Test drive both and find what you like. Personally, it was DSG for me.

[kryptonkid07]

DSG is the shiz. I love it.