Curvy coupe's change of gears

By DAVID LINKLATER

Audi's TT will introduce new gearbox technology to New Zealand late this year. A new 3.2-litre V6 Quattro version of the curvaceous coupe will feature a Direct Sequential Gearbox (DSG).

The DSG is claimed to combine the performance advantages of a six-speed manual transmission with the ease of an automatic.

In essence the DSG has two clutches: one for the odd-numbered gears and another for the even. This enables the transmission to "preselect" the next ratio for much quicker and smoother changes than a conventional automatic.

The transmission can be operated in full automatic mode, as a sequential shift with the gear-lever or through standard-fit paddles mounted behind the steering wheel.

The TT V6 will go on sale in coupe form only towards the end of this year for $108,900 - $9000 more than the current range-topping coupe, the four-cylinder 1.8T Quattro.

Styling revisions for the TT V6 are subtle to say the least. The front apron has been reshaped and now incorporates side gills. The larger bootlid spoiler - claimed to further reduce rear-end lift - and honeycomb-pattern diffuser trim are the distinguishing features at the rear.

Inside, the V6 has an aluminium gearbox surround and an instrument cluster with 280km/h speedometer.

Eighteen-inch, seven-spoke alloy wheels and xenon headlights will be standard on the Kiwi TT V6.

The DSG gearbox is destined for a number of future Volkswagen Group products, including the fifth-generation Golf turbo diesel due in New Zealand in the middle of next year.