Short dual-clutch automated gearbox rant
Posted: Sat Dec 28, 2013 3:07 pm
It started when I read this:
http://www.edmunds.com/mercedes-benz/cl ... error.html
Why do people put up with shit like this for what are totally regular, mostly uninteresting cars? If they can't let me row my own, then I probably want a hydraulic torque converter automatic. What's REALLY sad is in the "interesting car" segment, the dual clutch box is taking over the availability of real manuals.
For the small gain in efficiency, the downsides include low speed refinement issues and, honestly, probably long term durability issues. BMW limits how many launches its 3-series can perform, over the transmission's lifetime. And since these transmissions are likely more expensive than both a manual and regular automatic, I'll pass, thank you.
http://www.edmunds.com/mercedes-benz/cl ... error.html
Why do people put up with shit like this for what are totally regular, mostly uninteresting cars? If they can't let me row my own, then I probably want a hydraulic torque converter automatic. What's REALLY sad is in the "interesting car" segment, the dual clutch box is taking over the availability of real manuals.
For the small gain in efficiency, the downsides include low speed refinement issues and, honestly, probably long term durability issues. BMW limits how many launches its 3-series can perform, over the transmission's lifetime. And since these transmissions are likely more expensive than both a manual and regular automatic, I'll pass, thank you.