The New Audi A4 Transmission Options
Published: 9th February 2008
The new A4 is available with a choice of high-tech transmission systems. The manual gearbox is a totally new design, and the six-speed tiptronic and multitronic continuously variable transmissions have undergone extensive revisions. All conform to the A4’s new basic layout with the differential immediately behind the engine and therefore ahead of the clutch or torque converter.
The quattro permanent four-wheel-drive system is fitted as standard to the new A4 3.2 FSI and the A4 3.0 TDI. The new saloon features the latest generation version of the system, featuring an asymmetric/dynamic torque split in the interest of optimum handling composure.
Two versions of the newly developed six-speed manual gearbox transmit power to the driven wheels in the A4. The basic version, suitable for either front-wheel drive or quattro drive, can transmit up to 350 Nm of torque – sufficient for the petrol engines and the four-cylinder TDI. For the V6 TDI, which has 500 Nm of torque and drives all four wheels, an even higher-capacity version is available.
Both manual gearboxes are installed with the differential ahead of the clutch. Drive from the gearbox to the differential is by way of a hollow shaft inclined at an angle of 7.2 degrees, with special splines at both ends. The dual-mass flywheel and the hydraulically actuated single dry-plate clutch are not bolted to the crankshaft in the usual way, but supported on the gearbox input shaft.
Various measures have been taken to reduce internal friction and improve efficiency still further. Special selector fork mountings decouple the gear lever from the driveline so that the driver does not sense any vibration.
All SE versions of the new A4 feature a Driver’s Information System incorporating a factory-fitted gearshift indicator which helps the driver to select the correct gear for maximum economy. It indicates which gear is actually in use, and if a different gear would be more suitable while the car is being driven at a steady speed, makes the appropriate recommendation
Audi A4
Our Audi A4 Guide lists the full specification of the current UK A4 range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £19,895 - £32,445
Body Style:
Fuel:
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Models in the range: 13
We have road tested the Audi A4, to read our in-depth car review:
Audi A4 Review - Dec 2006
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 25th Jun 2008
