Two clutches, 7 speeds, quick changes. Audi’s new S Tronic transmission promises this. It will be prominently featured within the Audi powertrain family.
Audi, the twin-clutch innovator, is now the proud manufacturer a 7-speed twin clutch gearbox called S Tronic. S Tronic joins Audi’s other offerings such as 6-speed DSG and Multitronic. It is another step in the pursuit for high performance, low fuel consumption, and enjoyable driving experiences.
The S Tronic can handle engine speeds up to 9000rpm and up to 550Nm brute torque. This is probably why the [Nm RS 6] uses a 6-speed Tiptronic transmission. For those five WCF readers that have not been online in a while, a basic lesson on the inner workings of S Tronic is likely to be needed.
S Tronic is a twin clutch transmission system. It uses two clutches for changing and engaging gears. Twin-clutch systems are a bit faster than other systems, which only engage the appropriate gear after the control unit determines the speed, revs, and throttle that are best for that action. They engage the next gear immediately after the current gear is engaged. This allows them to “lie in wait” until the action is approved. Simple.
S Tronic can be driven in different modes such as D (Drive) or S (Sport). Normal D mode drives are changed by the computer. S mode allows for faster shifts and can be performed via optional rockers at the steering wheel. S Tronic will be available on a number of Audi models starting in 2008.
