I'm new to Audi and have always driven cars with a manual gearbox, in the firm belief that you have greater control of things such as when you want to change up (or down), engine braking on the over-run, etc.

I'm seriously considering the new S3 Quattro Saloon, but I thought I'd seek opinions as to how people get on with Audi's S Tronic automatic transmission. As I say, I've always used a manual box and I'd be happy to continue doing so until I'm too old to get out of bed! My wife is also anxious at the prospect of an automatic, saying that 'proper' drivers tend to retain the total control of a manual gear change.

I can see from the spec sheet that the S Tronic is marginally quicker on acceleration, marginally more economical, has slightly lower emissions but costs more to buy and, presumably, there's more to go wrong in the future.

Advice or opinions, anyone?

 

My opinion, like yours, is that I prefer an MT6 and will consider an A3/S3 only when it comes with one in the US. That leaves me with a future A4, I guess.

 

I love the emotional bond provided by using both hands and feet in a car...

however, like you said, the dual clutch S-tronic shift lightning quick, resulting in quicker acceleration and better fuel economy. I honestly think it's the direction most cars in the future are headed, whether we like it or not.

 

I had a tiptronic A6 Diesel and the gear box was ok.

Ive now got the S-tronic S3 and its much much better...quicker gear change than manual, drives superb...try it, its in my opinion better than my manual car

G