Audi Q5 gets standard 7-speed S-tronic
February 16, 2009 by George Skentzos
With the new Q5 SUV due to be launched in Australia next month, Audi has announced the new model would also showcase another of the brand’s progressive technologies – the seven-gear S-tronic transmission.
The dual-clutch transmission will feature as standard in the new range of Audi Q5 models, offering a fully automatic mode with both D (Drive) and S (Sport) programs as well as shift paddles as standard fitment for V6 models.
For the first time, the transmission has been designed for use with a longitudinally-installed engine and quattro all-wheel, previously only available for transverse applications in the Audi TT and A3 models.
The seven-speed S tronic incorporates two multi-plate clutches using a sold shaft to direct torque for the odd-numbered gears and a hollow shaft which rotates around the solid shaft for even gears.
Both transmission structures are continuously active, but only one is connected to the engine at any one time – for example, when the driver accelerates in third gear, the fourth gear is already engaged in the second transmission structure.
This set-up means gear changes only take a few hundredths of a second with no interruption to traction.
The seven-speed S tronic is designed for engine speeds of up to 9000 rpm and can transmit torque of up to 550Nm, ideal for mid-range engines, delivering lightning-fast gear changes and uninterrupted power flow.
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What does that mean for those of us who would prefer the manual?
^ roughly translated from German, it means, “Stiff s..t” :-)
I saw one of these in Balmain (in Sydney) on saturday, and I have to say it looks fantastic! Much nicer than a Q7 – much sharper and compact. SHould sell better than BMW’s hideous X3!
HAL Says:
February 16th, 2009 at 4:15 pm
^ roughly translated from German, it means, “Stiff s..t” :-)
QUOTE OF THE MONTH!!!!
Steif scheiße indeed lol,
steif scheiße indeed……
It’s a handsome 4×4, and a rare moment where I favour an Audi over its BMW counterpart. If I’m right, it shares some components with the Tiguan, but I hope its fun and luxurious enough to justify its premium over the VW.
Yes Al – considerably more luxurious than the Tiguan, which is built on a Golf platform – whilst the Q5 is on the A4/A5 platform. Therefor it is visually larger, & has more interior room. The 2.0 ltr FSI & TDI engines are more powerful versions of the same mill, and the 7 speed S-Tronic is superior to VW 6 speeder. The VW is a bargain (if you steer clear of the options list) but this is a bigger car, more sophisticated engineering, & a more prestige package…….cleverly positioned not to compete head to head. I look forward to a test drive.