Volkswagen’s DSG technology explained

Volkswagen is known for their smooth and refined transmissions. Be it their manual offerings, torque converter automatics or their cutting edge DSG units. With a clear focus on performance and efficiency built into their products, each component is crafted to deliver on those pillars. In this article we take a closer look at the DSG transmission and what it packs to give you that delightful driving experience.

What is a DSG?

DSG is the short form for Direkt-Schalt-Getriebe. Yes, that is in German and translates to Direct Shift Gearbox. It is often referred to as a dual clutch gearbox and is an electronically controlled unit that does employ two clutches, and can be used in both a transaxle or traditional layout depending on the engine and drive configuration (i.e. longitudinal, AWD). A DSG also offers the user the convenience of using it as a fully automatic unit or with a semi-manual gear selection which is essentially an override of the mechatronics that control it and allows the driver to change the gears at their leisure.

How does a DSG work?

To understand how a DSG transmission works, you need to think of it as two individual units that work alternatively, however are packaged in a single housing. Each unit employs a separate clutch (which is why we like to call it a dual clutch gearbox) and has its own gear shaft. One set controls the even gears- 2, 4, 6, while the other set controls the odd numbered gears 1, 3, 5, 7 and Reverse (in the case of the Volkswagen 7-speed DSG). So if you were to break it down, you would find two clutches and two gear shafts and a single mechatronic unit that manages them both in order to allow for faster shift times and a seamless driving experience.

The mechatronics unit takes into consideration the throttle input and chooses the right gear for the occasion, however the unit also preselects the next gear and when the time is right, it seamlessly disengages one clutch and engages the other. An example would be under hard acceleration, the car is moving fast and is already in 3^rd gear with 4^th already selected, when the shift point arrives, it seamlessly engages 4^th and if you keep on the pedal 5^th is preselected and engaged just when you need it. The same happens in the opposite direction when you are slowing down.

Volkswagen has been working with DSG technology for close to 20 years, with the first production model coming out in 2003. Over the years, they have refined this technology to the level where gear changes happen within milliseconds and are literally imperceptible. It is almost impossible to confuse the transmission and if you have experienced a DSG unit, you will agree that the ECU seems to know what you need even before you do!

VW DSG- Ease of use

While the technology is cutting edge, the end user doesn’t have to drive their Volkswagen any differently than how they would operate a normal torque converter automatic. The gear selection remains the same with the Park, Reverse, Neutral, Drive layout, however in modern Volkswagen Group vehicles fitted with a DSG, you will also notice a slot to the side near the D/S with a + and – sign. Slot the shifter into that mode and you can drive your car like a manual by engaging the gears yourself! Basically, you get the joy of driving a manual without the hassle of a clutch if you feel the need to have that sense of control.

The DSG advantage

The biggest benefit of DSG technology is that it is an extremely efficient bit of technology that seamlessly allows you to harness the power of the engine. From a driving standpoint, a DSG ensures that you never experience a significant drop in torque between gearshifts which basically means that the car just pulls forward in a smooth and seamless fashion. Coupled with Volkswagen’s TSI engines, these two technologies work to deliver a drive experience like no other as they give you the best of everything – performance, an engaging drive experience and efficiency.