VW Launches New TSI Engine, 7-Speed DSG

Volkswagen AG expands its lineup of advanced drivetrains with the introduction of a new turbocharged small-displacement gasoline engine and 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.

Based on the existing turbocharged and supercharged 1.4L TSI 4-cyl., known as the “twincharger” and currently offered in Europe in 138-hp and 168-hp trims, the new mill boasts 122 hp and 148 lb.-ft. (200 Nm) of torque through turbocharging alone.

Gone is the supercharger of the higher-end TSI engines. But the auto maker’s direct gasoline-injection technology remains, allowing the new turbo engine to produce 7% more power and 30% more torque than VW’s normally aspirated 1.6L FSI 4-cyl., the auto maker says, noting fuel economy is improved 6%, as well.

Accompanying the new TSI engine is a new 7-speed version of VW’s DSG (direct-shift gearbox) dual-clutch robotized manual transmission.

The new DSG gearbox can handle up to 184 lb.-ft. (250 Nm) of torque and operates more efficiently through use of a dry-clutch setup vs. the oil-immersed wet-clutch design of the existing 6-speed unit.

VW currently has no plans to adapt the engine/transmission combination for sale in North America, but says the powertrain is rated at 40 mpg (5.9 L/100 km) in Europe when installed in the Golf (Rabbit) hatchback. It also will be offered in the Jetta sedan and Touran MPV.

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