DSG - Direct Shift Transmission

The latest innovation in gearbox design is introduced at Volkswagen by the DSG dual clutch system introduced in 2003. This fully automatic transmission is different from others in that it allows you to select gears without interrupting the transmission of driving power. In this way, gear shifts are particularly subtle and barely noticeable to the traveller. The direct shift gearbox has two wet clutches for the 6-speed versions and dry clutches for the new 7-speed versions, which actuate one of the even gears and the other of the odd gears via two axle shafts. During the selection process, the system is already preparing the next transmission, but does not yet include it. Within three to four hundredths of a second, the first clutch opens and the other closes. In this way, the gear change is seamless to the driver and without any interruption in traction. Thanks to the use of an intelligent electronic control unit and depending on the chosen driving style, fuel savings can also be achieved.

DSG can be activated by the driver in automatic or manual mode. In the first case, you can choose between a program for a pronounced sporty driving style and a program for a comfortable and smooth ride. In manual mode, changes can be made using levers or buttons on the steering wheel or using a dedicated selector.

It should be regarded as an active safety system as it can be combined with other safety systems (ESP, ASR, active suspensions) using the appropriate software.