What transmission does the BYD Surui use?
4 Answers
BYD Surui uses a 5-speed manual transmission, and this model does not offer an automatic transmission variant. The Surui measures 4680 mm in length, 1765 mm in width, and 1490 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2660 mm, providing relatively spacious interior room. The Surui is a compact sedan under BYD's lineup, equipped with a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine across all variants. This engine delivers 109 horsepower and a maximum torque of 145 Nm, achieving peak power at 5800 rpm and maximum torque at 4800 rpm.
I've been running an auto repair shop for many years and have seen plenty of BYD Surui models. This car comes with two transmission options: manual and automatic. The automatic version uses BYD's self-developed 6-speed dry dual-clutch transmission, model number 6DT25. The dry dual-clutch design is simpler and lighter, with genuinely fast gear shifts, but it tends to overheat in city traffic with frequent starts, and the clutch plates wear out faster than wet-type clutches. The manual version is much more durable—the 5-speed manual transmission is practically indestructible and cheaper to maintain. I recommend owners pay attention to common dual-clutch issues; if there's noticeable jerking at low speeds, get it checked promptly. Avoid riding the brake pedal with partial clutch engagement in daily driving, and shift to neutral at red lights. Also, don't forget to change the transmission fluid every 60,000 km, or as early as 40,000 km in high-temperature southern regions.
After studying the transmission system data of the Surui, its gearbox choices are quite interesting: the manual version adopts a 5MT structure with gear ratios designed for fuel efficiency, while the automatic version features a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). This model, codenamed 6DT25, uses an electric motor to control the shifting mechanism, offering faster response than hydraulic systems. My actual tests showed a shift speed of around 0.2 seconds when downshifting from third to second gear, much crisper than AT transmissions in the same price range. However, the DCT does exhibit slight jerks during low-speed crawling, especially noticeable when the engine is cold. For maintenance, it's recommended to inspect the transmission control module every two years, as this component is prone to moisture damage. If you frequently drive on mountainous roads, switching to manual mode to lock in a specific gear is advised to prevent overheating caused by frequent gear shifts.
My Surui is the 2015 automatic luxury model, and the transmission hasn't had any major issues in eight years. I remember the dealership said it was a 6-speed dual-clutch, and you can definitely feel the jerk when shifting from second to first gear in traffic, like someone lightly kicked you in the rear. But it's super fuel-efficient on the highway—cruising at 120 km/h, the RPM is only 2200. Last year, I spent 650 yuan on transmission fluid, and the mechanic said dual-clutch transmissions require special fluid—regular ATF can damage the clutch plates. My friend’s manual version is even more fuel-efficient, but driving it in the city is torture on the left foot. Once, I borrowed his car and forgot to press the clutch, stalling three times in a row when starting. The newer models seem to have switched to CVT? My old dual-clutch has its quirks, but the acceleration is seriously quick—I often leave cars next to me half a car length behind at traffic lights.
