What brand is the Santana transmission?
3 Answers
The Volkswagen New Santana uses a 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission, which is provided by the Japanese Aisin Transmission Manufacturing Company. Automatic Transmission: An automatic transmission is a gear-shifting device that can automatically change gears based on the vehicle's speed and engine RPM, as opposed to a manual transmission. Currently, there are four common types of automatic transmissions for cars: hydraulic automatic transmission (AT), continuously variable transmission (CVT), automated manual transmission (AMT), and dual-clutch transmission. Manual-Automatic Transmission: A manual-automatic transmission is a gear-shifting device that combines the functions of manual and automatic transmissions. This technology was developed to improve the fuel efficiency and controllability of automatic transmissions, allowing the driver to take back control over the shift timing that is usually decided by the computer, thereby enhancing driving operability and enriching the driver's experience.
Back when I drove the old Santana, I did some serious research on its transmission. The classic Santana used genuine German parts - the original Volkswagen 02K manual transmission, which was incredibly durable and could last hundreds of thousands of kilometers without issues. The automatic version also used Volkswagen's own 01N transmission with original German technology, providing exceptionally smooth gear shifts. However, it's important to note the production year - models from the 1990s had more imported components, while post-2000 some batches began using locally produced transmission housings in Shanghai, though the core components still employed German technology. To confirm the specific model, the most accurate method is to check the stamped serial number on the transmission housing underneath the vehicle, such as those starting with 02K 300.
When repairing the transmission on my 2007 Volkswagen Santana Vista, I specifically researched the details. This model's manual version is equipped with the Volkswagen MQ200 transmission, which was produced by Shanghai Volkswagen itself. It offers light shifting feel but has some slight clicking noise at low speeds. The automatic version comes with the Japanese Aisin 09G six-speed automatic transmission, which is significantly more fuel-efficient than the older 4-speed automatic. Interestingly, the MQ200 was actually produced at both Tangshan Aisin and SAIC Gear Factory, and the production batch can be identified by the 10th digit of the VIN. Once, while helping a friend shop for a used Santana, I discovered that post-2009 1.6L models sometimes used transmissions from Ningbo Xinrui, so special attention should be paid to the maintenance schedule for these.