Audi May Answer Enthusiasts Prayers With A Manual Transmission S3

There appears to be hope that Audi is strongly considering a manual transmission option for an upcoming S3. The news comes by way of Fouritude, an Audi-enthusiast website, that attended a celebratory dinner held in honor the Audi Club of North America’s recent 30th anniversary. Speaking at the event were several personalities that included Allan McNish, John Hindhaugh, and Audi of America President Scott Keogh.

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cidflekken - 9/26/2014 6:38:52 PM

+2 Boost

I don't know how Audi's manual transmissions are, but that would be a really big selling point. Then again, I would be leary of how long it would be before the clutch would need replacement.

jeffy210 - 9/27/2014 9:55:22 AM

+3 Boost

Serious question here. What is still the draw for manual transmission cars? dual-clutch trannys can shift faster than a human now (I remember that used to be one argument). Through paddles or gates you can select your gear (another argument). So you can have complete control over your car still. Almost all exotics and high end sports cars are using a manual of some form or another. So what is the "enthusiast" draw to manuals still?

cidflekken - 9/27/2014 3:45:12 PM

+2 Boost

I can still see the appeal of a manual transmission. From a driver involvement and control perspective, it is just more enjoyable to drive a car that way. It just isn't the same experience with the manu-matic transmissions despite better performance and fuel economy. Granted, I was probably spoiled in the fact that all of the manuals I owned were Honda products and they built some of the best, if not the best, manual transmissions. That being said, i would only get a manual on a car today if it was strictly a weekend car.

Agent00R - 9/27/2014 4:42:35 PM

+2 Boost

Manuals still have tremendous appeal, IMHO.

I am actually getting sick and tired of dual-clutches because most actually suck. Sure they're quick shifting but that's where the good stuff stops for the most part.

jeffy210 - 9/27/2014 6:01:02 PM

+1 Boost

I also meant to say "exotics and high end sports cars are using automatics in some form or another" (think Ferrari).

00R, to your point though: What is the appeal?

MDarringer - 9/29/2014 9:35:36 AM

+1 Boost

Audi/VW dual clutch trannies also tend to self-destruct between 75-100K miles. The manual would not have that issue. Moreover, the dual clutch is not as smooth as a conventional automatic.

A better strategy would be to offer a smooth pure automatic transmission like the Chrysler 9 speed and a pure manual rather than the dual clutch "wanna be automatic wanna be manual" thing.

iamdabest1 - 9/28/2014 12:24:45 AM

+1 Boost

i had the e92 m3 with a dual clutch and actually liked my e46 sequential manual gearbox more ! i know im in the minority on that one, but even if the SMG was slower, i actually enjoyed the jerking and lag of it because it felt more raw and more like a manual than the DCT.
i wish they would bring back the smg :(
its not always about the speed of dual clutch that matters, people want manuals because they are just more fun to drive ( especially if you dont live in a place with crazy traffic )