Differences between 2012 and 2013 models (DSG vs R-Tronic)

[KayS4]

Anyone with the R-Tronic Tune compare the car to that of the DSG's ?I have a B8 S4 and that tranny gives me one hell of a time not sure if its worth the extra wait for a new model. Really hoping the 2015 comes with the 4.0TT instead of the V8 4.2.

[Stubek]

I drove a 2011 R8 and can't remember if that was the R-Tronic or DSG, but that one kicked you in the back every time you shifted. I heard the newer trans was a little smoother.

[LINDW4LL]

Not an R8 owner but the R-Tronic is clunky around town until you get used to it. It needs to be driven like a manual. With a little practice the shifts are perfectly smooth though. A lot of people like the R-Tronic due to the violent/kick in the pants type feeling when shifting at redline. It is more visceral than the S-Tronic in that sense... But there's no denying the smoothness and amazing shift speed of the DSG.. I would drive both and see which you prefer.

[svirk2]

Dual clutch vs automated Manual, like ^Lindwall said, it's a personal preference

[KayS4]

with the R-Tronic tune I am sure the shift speed is increased but which tranny would last the longest ? DSG -- Dual Clutch more wear and tear or more costly repair in the end?

[svirk2]

I don't know about audi, but the lambo automated manual is extremely tough. Also, These new transmissions are not going to fail anytime soon; you shouldn't worry about them unless you are going to major power upgrades

[LINDW4LL]

I don't know about audi, but the lambo automated manual is extremely tough.

The E-Gear gearboxes themselves are tough, but they do go through clutches pretty quickly (I've heard as low as 6000 miles, average is probably around 15k from what I've seen). I assume the R-Tronic's wear is similar due to being single clutch. It depends on how you drive it though. A lot of city/hills and launching can dramatically reduce the life.

The clutches in the DSG should last the life of the car.

[KayS4]

So does the R-Tronic need clutch replacement like the Lambos?

[LINDW4LL]

So does the R-Tronic need clutch replacement like the Lambos?

I just verified that the R-Tronic and E-Gear are the same units. But the R8 is making less power (a LOT less in V8 form) so it should last much longer. As I said before, clutch life really depends on your driving style.