Does DSG improve fuel efficiency?

[sashpe]

Hi all,

My dealer was trying to convince me that the DSG (6spd) improves fuel consumption. I wouldn't have even bothered to believe him (cause auto transmissions are generally thirsty) but few articles here and there, that supported his view, made me think: DSG does seem to have the potential to be highly efficient - quick shifts, no pointless reving, engine brake.

However, there are articles that claim the opposite. AND...VW brochures show an increase in consumption (for 6spd DSG). Doesn't VW have the incentive to show good fuel figures if the DSG was really that efficient? Or may be it isn't?

I already have a Roc with DSG on order but I still believe it's worth seeing your opinion.

[maisbitt]

6 speed DSG is slightly thirstier on the official figures, but the fuel economy penalty is much lower for DSG than for most other auto boxes. It has very similar gearing to the manual, and behaves more like a manual than most other auto boxes.

If you look at the figures for the 7 speed DSG as on the 1.4TSI, you'll see that it has improved economy over the 6 speed manual option.

If you go for an auto, you're doing it for convenience over the manual, and most people are willing to take an economy penalty for that, but the DSG has a very low penalty.

There are tax implications on CO2 levels, so VW can't lie if the auto is less efficient than the manual. A higher CO2/Km value means less economy.

The biggest factor between manual and Auto on the Scirocco is you! Depends totally on your driving style. A well driven DSG is going to be a lot more efficient than a manual that is driven hard, and vice-versa.

[sashpe]

Thanks for the reply! How would you explain that the auto petrols have minimum efficiency penalty (in the case of 7spd - even a positive "penalty") whereas the diesels' consumptions with DSG jump up considerably?