Is the Volkswagen Lamando dual-clutch transmission dry-type?
2 Answers
Except for the 330TSI (1.8T) and Lamando GTS models which use wet dual-clutch transmissions, all other Lamando dual-clutch models are equipped with dry-type transmissions. Below is relevant information: Dual-clutch transmissions are divided into dry-type and wet-type, with the same structure and shifting principles, differing mainly in the cooling method of the clutch: (1) Dry dual-clutch transmission clutch plates rely on air cooling when engaged. The cooling of a dry dual-clutch depends on the airflow generated when the vehicle is moving, so there are some cooling holes around the clutch. During traffic congestion, frequent vehicle starts, upshifts, and downshifts can lead to insufficient cooling of the clutch, causing the clutch plates to overheat, trigger warnings, and shorten their lifespan. (2) Wet dual-clutch transmissions use oil for cooling, with transmission oil added to the sealed clutch assembly, supplemented by a radiator. Wet dual-clutch transmissions must have a hydraulic pump, lubricant, cooling pipes, and an external cooling system. The advantage of wet dual-clutch transmissions is their effective cooling, allowing them to handle greater power and torque, making them more suitable for performance cars and high-power vehicles.
I've been driving for over twenty years and am quite familiar with the Volkswagen lineup. The Lamando 1.4T version does indeed come with a dry dual-clutch transmission, specifically the DQ200 model. 'Dry' means the clutch plates are not immersed in oil and rely on air cooling, which offers advantages like lightweight, fast gear shifts, and fuel efficiency, making it particularly suitable for urban commuting. However, the downside is that it's prone to overheating in traffic jams, leading to faster clutch wear and resulting in jerky shifts. It's recommended that owners switch to manual mode or S-gear in congested areas to reduce frequent gear changes; regular maintenance, such as checking the transmission fluid, is crucial. Volkswagen has improved upon early issues, and reliability has increased, but compared to the performance of wet dual-clutch transmissions in 1.8T models, the dry version is still more suitable for small-displacement, economy-focused users. Overall, the Lamando 1.4T offers great value for money, and with good driving habits, it delivers a very smooth ride.
