Audi dual-clutch S Tronic transmission for A4, A5 or Q5

Audi A4, A5 and Q5 buyers will be amongst the first drivers to experience a seven-speed version of Audi's acclaimed twin-clutch transmission.

The technology in question is Audi's seven-speed version of an acclaimed twin-clutch transmission that the four-ringed German manufacturer is flagging up as the 'S Tronic', and not to be confused with the DSG configuration bandied around by others in the Volkswagen family.

No, this is a pure-bred seven-speed gear linkage which is gaffa-tapped to Audi cars whose power plants are installed longitudinally, as opposed to sitting, legs akimbo, across the front axle.

This new positioning means that the previously unobtainable threshold of 406 lb/ft of torque can be deployed without much quibble, a feat unachievable in conventional, transversely mounted units like that found wanting in recent Audi TT and A3's, which, although harnessing an elementary S Tronic set-up – albeit in a maximum of six-speed form – could not up the power ante.

However, with initial concerns raised that the seven-speed box would only benefit smaller engined cars in the Audi range seeming to have been largely forgotten, as the sort of torque that this set-up can handle teeters on the abyss of 400 lb/ft – present and correct in forthcoming A4,A5 and Q5.

The crucial addition of the seventh gear means the engine can maintain its power-curve for more sustainable periods, championing lower revs within the gear ratios, thus resulting in less fossil fuels being used and abused. In theory.

Mercedes and BMW have been using a seven-speed transmission for a while now, and Lexus has an eight-speed box in production, so Audi clearly wanted to make up any lost ground.

In layman's terms, the two clutches are in a state of perpetual motion, with the engine continually driving one whilst the substitute waits patiently for the driver to select gear, which is its call to action. One clutch plate essentially controlling the odd gears, 1, 3, 5 and 7, the other responsible for the even numbers.

So, if for example a car, let's say an Audi A4 is making the sort of safe progress the Highway Code enthuses about in third gear, the second, reserve transmission is primed and waiting to be employed in fourth gear.

Audi says the process has no effect on traction as it's completed in something akin to a few hundredths of a second. This illustrated capacity implies that the seven-speed dual-clutch S Tronic transmission will be compatible with the full gamut of sporting models in its current range, and works in tandem with Audi's legendary Quattro four-wheel-drive system.

Dual-clutches are gaining industry respect and buyer sit-up-and-take-notice due to their smoothness, efficiency and speed.

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