Audi Ups the Ante with New Seven-Speed S tronic Transmission

INGOLSTADT, GERMANY – Audi has confirmed that it is ready to roll out its new seven-speed S tronic transmission, which is designed for use with a longitudinally installed engine and Quattro all-wheel drive, in the second half of 2008, according to www.edmunds.com.

Audi describes the seven-speed S tronic as “a new phase in its driveline strategy,” emphasizing that the new transmission is “intended for sporty mid-range models.” The transmission can be used in various modes.

“The fully automatic mode, in which the computer selects the gears, provides D [Drive] and S [Sport] programs,” Audi AG said in a statement. “The gears can also be shifted manually with the selector lever or with the optional rocker switches on the steering wheel — an impressively rapid action.”

Audi said the seven-speed S tronic is designed for engine speeds of up to 9,000 rpm and can transmit a torque of up to 405.66 lb.-ft.