···
Log in / Register

What is the difference between a manual-automatic transmission and a dual-clutch manual-automatic transmission?

4 Answers
LaConnor
07/23/25 4:33pm
Here are the differences between a manual-automatic transmission and a dual-clutch manual-automatic transmission: 1. The manual-automatic transmission is more common, with shorter shift times and sufficient power output. The component cost of a dual-clutch transmission is relatively higher, making the manual-automatic transmission more cost-effective in terms of maintenance. 2. The dual-clutch transmission is paired with two automatic clutches, while the manual-automatic transmission combines manual and automatic modes, leaning more towards automatic shifting. In terms of fuel economy, the dual-clutch transmission performs better. Additional information: In simpler terms, a manual-automatic transmission combines manual and automatic shifting modes. It provides a gentle start and smooth low-speed driving, effectively balancing smoothness and control.
Was this review help?
3
2
Share
DiLeo
08/10/25 12:18pm
I've been driving for ten years and have tried both manual and automatic transmissions. The torque converter in an automatic manual transmission delivers power smoothly like silk, with no jerking when switching between the brake and accelerator in traffic jams, though fuel consumption is slightly higher. The dual-clutch automatic manual is different; it has two clutches that take turns working, providing lightning-fast gear shifts and direct power delivery when you step on the accelerator, giving a strong sense of sportiness. However, it can jerk at low speeds when following traffic, similar to the shuddering of a manual transmission in semi-engaged clutch mode. Structurally, the dual-clutch is more delicate, and mechanics have mentioned its clutch plates are prone to overheating and wear. Choosing a car depends on the roads you usually drive on—automatic manuals are more comfortable for commuting in traffic, while dual-clutch transmissions are more exhilarating for highway driving.
Was this review help?
15
4
Share
Expand All
Guzman
09/22/25 6:29am
Master Wang from the auto repair shop explained the differences between these two transmissions to me. The traditional automatic manual transmission relies on hydraulic fluid to transfer power, with a simple and durable structure—just change the oil for maintenance, and repairs are cheap. The dual-clutch is a whole different story; it combines two manual transmissions and uses a computer to control clutch switching. The advantage is uninterrupted power delivery—you'll notice how quickly it downshifts when overtaking. The downside? In city traffic jams, the clutch repeatedly engages in a semi-linked state, making it prone to issues after five or six years. For those who frequently drive on highways, the dual-clutch is recommended—quick acceleration and fuel-efficient. But if you're stuck in city traffic daily, the old-school automatic manual is more reliable—at least it won't drive you crazy.
Was this review help?
16
5
Share
Expand All
MacEzra
11/05/25 9:49am
As an automotive journalist, I have participated in multiple transmission comparison tests. The automatic manual transmission (AMT) uses a traditional planetary gear structure with a torque converter for soft power connection, offering smoothness but lower efficiency. The dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) essentially operates with two sets of clutches working alternately, achieving a transmission efficiency of up to 90%, akin to two drivers taking turns to shift gears. The differences in daily driving are evident: the AMT provides smooth starts and is less frustrating in traffic jams, while the DCT offers crisp gear shifts and stronger acceleration with noticeable push-back sensation. However, the DCT can exhibit hesitation and judder during low-speed crawling due to the computer-controlled clutch. From a technological trend perspective, the DCT has gained more popularity with the rise of new energy vehicles, as it pairs better with electric motors.
Was this review help?
12
2
Share
Expand All
More Forum Discussions

Can New Energy Vehicles Get Regular License Plates?

New energy vehicles can get regular license plates. What are new energy vehicles: New energy vehicles generally refer to models whose primary power source does not solely rely on internal combustion engines. The most distinctive feature of new energy vehicles is that they use electric motors for power, with the electricity supplied by batteries. These batteries can be charged through built-in generators, external charging ports, solar energy, chemical energy, or even nuclear energy. General classification of new energy vehicles: Currently, new energy vehicles on the market can be broadly divided into plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and battery electric vehicles. There is no mandatory requirement for new energy vehicles to use green license plates; they can still opt for blue plates. The first letter of the special license plate for small new energy vehicles is D or F, where D represents battery electric new energy vehicles, and F represents plug-in hybrid new energy vehicles. For large new energy vehicles, the sixth letter of the special license plate is D or F, with D representing battery electric new energy vehicles and F representing plug-in hybrid new energy vehicles.
3
4
Share

What's the Difference Between Three-Cylinder and Four-Cylinder Cars?

In the current automotive market, four-cylinder engine models are the most common. Here are the differences between three-cylinder and four-cylinder cars: 1. Engine: A four-cylinder car has an engine with four cylinders. Common engine displacements like 1.4, 1.5, and 2.0 are mostly four-cylinder engines. A three-cylinder car has an engine with only three cylinders. Common engine displacements like 1.0 and 1.3 are mostly three-cylinder engines. 2. Stability: Four-cylinder cars are significantly more stable than three-cylinder cars. This is because the four-cylinder engine operates with balanced forces, where the power and reaction forces cancel each other out, greatly reducing engine vibration. Three-cylinder engines lack one cylinder, resulting in a moment during operation when the engine is not producing power. This makes the vibration of three-cylinder engines more noticeable, and their stability naturally falls short compared to four-cylinder, six-cylinder, and eight-cylinder engines.
7
2
Share

What is required for reissuing a vehicle license in a different location?

Reissuing a vehicle license in a different location requires: the applicant's ID card (original and copy, and a residence permit if the applicant's household registration is in a different location); a digital photo receipt for the driver's license; a one-inch white-background photo specifically for the driver's license, and other materials. Location for reissuance: Bring your ID card, two recent one-inch white-background color photos without hats, and if the driver's license was issued in a location different from your household registration, also bring a temporary residence permit or residence permit, to the vehicle management office where the driver's license was originally issued to complete the reissuance procedure. Limitations on reissuance applications: During the period when the motor vehicle driver's license is legally seized, detained, or temporarily suspended, the motor vehicle driver may not apply for a reissuance. After the motor vehicle driver has obtained a replacement driver's license, the original driver's license becomes invalid and must not be used further.
13
3
Share

Should the gasoline be replaced if the motorcycle has been parked for several months?

If the motorcycle has been parked for several months, there is no need to replace the gasoline. However, after starting it, you should check the fuel level. If the level is too low, you will need to add more gasoline. Gasoline is a volatile and flammable hydrocarbon mixture liquid derived from the distillation and cracking of petroleum, and it is used as fuel. 90 Octane Gasoline: Suitable for gasoline-powered vehicles with an engine compression ratio below 8.5. 92 Octane Gasoline: Suitable for gasoline-powered vehicles with an engine compression ratio between 8.6 and 9.9. 95 Octane Gasoline: Suitable for gasoline-powered vehicles with an engine compression ratio between 10.0 and 11.5. 98 Octane Gasoline: Suitable for gasoline-powered vehicles with an engine compression ratio above 11.6.
16
4
Share

How Often Should Coolant Be Replaced in a New Car?

New cars generally require coolant replacement every two years or 40,000 kilometers. The reasons for rapid coolant consumption and its functions are as follows: Reasons for rapid coolant consumption: Radiator damage, poor sealing of the upper and lower water chambers causing coolant leakage; loose connections and poor sealing at the reservoir, water pump interface, and various coolant system pipe joints leading to coolant leakage; cylinder head gasket damage, excessive flatness deviation or warping of the cylinder head and block mating surfaces, and loose cylinder head fastening bolts allowing high-temperature, high-pressure gases to enter the cooling system, resulting in rapid coolant consumption. Functions of coolant: Raises the "boiling point" of the engine coolant (the temperature at which cooling water boils), lowers the "freezing point" of the cooling water, typically has a service life of 1-2 years, and specialized test strips are available to measure coolant concentration.
14
5
Share

What causes the body shaking of Audi A4?

Here are the possible reasons for the shaking: 1. Excessive carbon deposits - Severe carbon buildup in the engine cylinders can lead to spark plug blockage and valve clogging, directly causing vehicle shaking during idling. If the car's acceleration performance has significantly deteriorated with persistent shaking, consider an engine cylinder cleaning. 2. Fuel supply system failure - Unstable fuel pressure may cause inconsistent mixture concentration, resulting not only in shaking but also unstable idling. First consider replacing the fuel filter, as prolonged use may clog the filter element. Then check the fuel pressure bypassing the filter - if abnormal, it might indicate a fuel pump issue. 3. Worn engine mounts - This is a very common cause of shaking. If the engine vibration worsens without corresponding power loss, consider checking the engine mounts. 4. Misfiring cylinders - This is the most common cause of engine shaking (perhaps even the most frequent). The problem lies in the engine ignition coils or spark plugs. If the ignition coil malfunctions or spark plugs fail to fire for any reason, the vehicle will experience shaking.
2
2
Share
Cookie
Cookie Settings
© 2025 Servanan International Pte. Ltd.