S tronic 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox

A supremely dynamic way to shift gears
This is the most advanced form of gearbox available; with shift times in the region of 0.2 seconds and without noticeably interrupting power flow. It is ideal for every driving style and adds unique emphasis to the sporty, dynamic character of the new Audi.

Uninterrupted flow of power Unlike conventional manual gearboxes, the S tronic gearbox has a two-part transmission shaft comprising an outer hollow shaft and an inner shaft. The inner transmission shaft serves the 1st, 3rd and 5th gears, the outer shaft is for gears 2, 4 and 6. A double multi-plate clutch and an intelligent electro-hydraulic control unit transfers engine power permanently to one of the two shafts. On the road, one gear is engaged and the next gear is pre-selected. Then, when the gear is shifted, the first clutch disengages the active gear and the other clutch engages the pre-selected gear at exactly the same time.

Automatic or Manual? The S tronic gearbox is both. It is based technically on a 6-speed manual gearbox with 2 clutches, but there is no clutch pedal. An automatic sports transmission with the emphasis on “sport.” In the fully-automatic mode the driver can select a sporty or relaxed shifting style. For a more active driving experience the driver can utilize the gear lever or the shift paddles on the steering wheel.

Full power acceleration
The special launch control program offers outstanding acceleration from a standing start. With the selector lever set to “S” and the ESP deactivated the driver can press down on the brake while giving full throttle. Engine speed will hold at about 3,200 rpm. By abruptly letting go of the brake pedal the Audi will accelerate with full power. Pure exhilaration.