Is the Envision's dual-clutch transmission dry or wet?
3 Answers
The Envision's dual-clutch transmission is dry. The difference between dry and wet dual-clutch transmissions lies in the working environment of their clutch plates. Wet dual-clutch plates are immersed in transmission fluid, while dry dual-clutch plates are in direct contact with the engine flywheel. The Envision offers two engine options: 1.5T and 2.0T, each available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. The 1.5T engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the 2.0T engine comes with a 9-speed HYDRAMATIC intelligent transmission. In terms of body dimensions, the vehicle measures 4686mm in length, 1839mm in width, and 1686mm in height.
I remember the Buick Envision started using a wet dual-clutch transmission several years ago, especially that 7-speed version. The wet dual-clutch relies on oil for lubrication and cooling, making it particularly suitable for SUVs that are often fully loaded or climbing hills, as it has better heat dissipation and avoids the overheating issues common with dry versions in stop-and-go traffic. During my daily commute, I appreciate its smooth gear shifts—acceleration is linear without the occasional jerks you get with dry versions. GM opted for the wet design primarily for durability, making the Envision better suited for everyday driving scenarios. Overall, this transmission balances fuel efficiency and power response well, and as an owner, I think choosing the wet version was a smart decision.
I've checked the specifications of the Envision, and it's equipped with a wet dual-clutch transmission. The wet design is more reliable than the dry type, and it's less prone to issues during long-distance or heavy-load driving. For example, in urban traffic jams where the transmission works frequently, oil lubrication effectively reduces wear. I've driven several generations of the Envision, and overall, the shifting feels smooth with no noticeable increase in fuel consumption. Of course, the wet type's maintenance is slightly more expensive, requiring regular oil changes, but it's worth it in the long run. For average users, choosing this configuration in the Envision is more practical because SUVs often carry loads, making the wet type a safer bet.
