Is a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission considered an automatic transmission?

[Allison]

6-speed dual-clutch transmission is a type of automatic transmission structure. Car transmissions can be divided into two main categories: manual transmissions and automatic transmissions, which correspond to the difference between manual and automatic transmissions. Automatic transmissions can be further subdivided into four types: AT (automatic transmission), AMT (semi-automatic transmission), DCT (dual-clutch transmission), and CVT (continuously variable transmission). More details are as follows: 1. The so-called dual-clutch transmission is essentially a car transmission with two sets of clutches. In terms of classification, dual-clutch transmissions can be broadly divided into wet dual-clutch transmissions and dry dual-clutch transmissions. Currently, mainstream dual-clutch transmissions generally have either 6 or 7 gears. A 6-speed dual-clutch transmission is one that has 6 forward gears. 2. The characteristic of a wet dual-clutch transmission is that it consists of two sets of multi-plate clutches, one large and one small, installed coaxially together in a sealed oil chamber filled with hydraulic oil. Therefore, the wet clutch structure offers better adjustment capability and higher thermal tolerance, enabling it to transmit relatively large torque. 3. The dry dual-clutch transmission was developed by simplifying the related hydraulic system based on the wet dual-clutch transmission. Since the clutch is not installed in a sealed oil chamber, the dry friction plates on the driving disc can directly engage with each other, resulting in more direct transmission efficiency. However, the drawback is that it is more prone to overheating.

[OHarmony]

Well, the car I drive happens to be a 6-speed dual-clutch, and it feels completely like an automatic transmission when driving. When cruising around the city, stopping and starting at traffic lights, I never have to touch the gear lever—it shifts gears on its own. Unlike a manual transmission where you need to press the clutch, or some older automatics with noticeable jerks, the dual-clutch is essentially a more advanced automatic transmission. Inside, it has two clutch discs—one handling odd-numbered gears and the other even-numbered gears—resulting in lightning-fast gear changes and a particularly smooth ride on the highway. My friend’s car has a traditional automatic transmission, and by comparison, the dual-clutch is more fuel-efficient, especially with stronger power delivery during acceleration. Of course, it has its downsides, like higher maintenance costs and more complicated repairs if something goes wrong, but that doesn’t change the fact that it operates within the realm of an automatic transmission. Overall, if you’re looking for convenience and don’t want to deal with manual shifting, a 6-speed dual-clutch definitely counts as an automatic—daily driving is absolutely hassle-free.