Audi S5 7-speed S-tronic (2008) CAR review

Audi has just about the most bewildering array of transmissions of any car maker – and it’s about to get more confusing, with the launch of a twin-clutch version of the S5 coupe. We’ve just driven the seven-speed S tronic S5 to bring you this first CAR review.

Across its burgeoning range, Ingolstadt now offers manual transmissions, Tiptronic automatics, CVT Multitronic gearboxes, an R-tronic automated manual in the R8 supercar and an ever-broadening choice of twin-clutch transmissions badged S-tronic (formerly DSG).

It’s a new seven-speed S tronic ’box that we’re here to test on the svelte S5 coupe. It’s the first time anyone’s tested this transmission, that’s bound for a range of future Audis.

Audi already does twin-clutch ’boxes… What’s new about this one on the S5?

So far, Audi has only offered its twin-clutch transmissions on its smaller, transverse-engined cars (remember the world’s first, the TT back in 2003?). That gearbox comes in two forms: a seven-speeder, dry-clutch affair for engines rated up to 184lb ft, and a six-speed, wet-clutch one for models rated up to 258lb ft.

Now with the launch of this seven-speeder, the same technology is available on bigger quattro models whose engines are mounted longitudinally. It’s a new wet-clutch application designed entirely inhouse by Audi and can be fitted to most of the company’s larger cars.

Click ‘Next’ to find out how the new S-tronic gearbox performs on the road