What is the transmission of the Tiguan L?
4 Answers
The transmission brand used in the Volkswagen Tiguan L is Volkswagen Automatic Transmission (Dalian) Co., Ltd. Volkswagen Automatic Transmission (Dalian) Co., Ltd. is the first wholly-owned subsidiary of the Volkswagen Group. Established on September 24, 2007, the company is located in Dalian and primarily produces the latest dual-clutch automatic transmissions. The Volkswagen Tiguan L uses a 7-speed DQ381 wet dual-clutch transmission. A wet dual-clutch refers to a dual-clutch transmission where the clutch plates are immersed in transmission fluid. For the transmission of the Volkswagen Tiguan L in daily use, the following points should be noted: Do not delay changing the transmission fluid for too long. Prolonged failure to change the transmission fluid can damage internal components such as bearings and the housing. Avoid coasting in neutral for extended periods. While driving manual transmission vehicles, many experienced drivers may coast in neutral, but for automatic transmission vehicles, this can cause the transmission to overheat and produce a certain impact when shifting back into D (Drive) mode. Never shift into D or R (Reverse) mode before the vehicle has come to a complete stop. Many drivers, to demonstrate smooth operation, shift directly into reverse while the vehicle is still moving, which can significantly damage the transmission gears and, over time, lead to gear grinding and other faults. Avoid frequently climbing steep slopes in D mode. On steep slopes, automatic transmission vehicles may overheat due to high load or shift too early, resulting in insufficient power. In such cases, use manual mode to limit the gear to a lower speed or switch to sport mode to protect the transmission. Do not tow the vehicle over long distances. If an automatic transmission vehicle breaks down, use a flatbed tow truck to move the vehicle onto the tow platform while it is in N (Neutral) mode. Do not use a tow rope or tow the vehicle directly with another vehicle.
I drove my friend's Tiguan L last week, and what impressed me most was the 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, codenamed DQ381. The gear shifts were incredibly fast, and I could barely feel any jerking when accelerating from a stop at traffic lights. It was especially responsive when downshifting for overtaking on the highway—the engine revs shot up instantly. My friend mentioned that this transmission uses an independent oil cooling system, which offers much better heat dissipation compared to older models, making it particularly suitable for stop-and-go traffic conditions. However, he reminded everyone that timely transmission fluid changes are crucial—the dealership recommends servicing it every 60,000 kilometers.
Yesterday in the workshop, we disassembled a Tiguan L's transmission. Volkswagen's DSG structure is truly interesting. The mechatronic control unit and clutch module are independently designed, allowing separate replacement during repairs. The dual-clutch module operates immersed in transmission fluid, providing more reliable cooling than dry-type systems. During low-speed traffic congestion, the control program proactively engages first gear to reduce jerking. As for drawbacks, this transmission assembly weighs about 15kg more than conventional ATs, which slightly affects front-end weight distribution.
Veteran drivers all know that the Tiguan L's transmission has a good reputation, with the key being its coordination with the engine. The EA888 turbo engine delivers maximum torque at just 1700 RPM, perfectly matching the efficient range of the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Compared to some CVT transmissions, it provides more direct power delivery during rapid acceleration; versus traditional 6AT transmissions, it boasts nearly 15% higher transmission efficiency. However, be cautious not to engage in prolonged semi-clutch operation when climbing hills, as some car owners have reported issues with clutch plates overheating and triggering warnings.