dhmgejs

Hi everyone, I've been looking for a 2010-2012 Audi A4 for quite a few months now.

I understand that starting in 2011, the A4's started shipping with 8 speed instead of 6 speed transmissions. Aside from fuel economy, are there other noticable advantages?

If any drivers have experience with both, I would really appreciate your help with this question. Is it worth it to spend a few thousand more for the newer models with 8 speed trans?

I saw a limited amount of threads regarding this, and could not find information to give me a conclusive answer.

Thanks in advance!

snagitseven

My 8 speed Tiptronic '13 A6 shifts considerably smoother than did my '09 six speed A4. Two different cars and engines but the transmissions are essentially the same.

Macallan21

I think the 8speed is really only going to be different if you are on the highway a lot.

My 2009 has the 6speed. When I took it in for service, they loaned me a 2012-8speed. It did smooth shifter, and felt like it had more power at 15-20mph...but that could have just been my imagination, and driving the newer car.

ssingh1035

i've spent a decent amount of time in both (I own a 6 speed and got an 8 as a loaner). I would take the 8 speed hands down. It slices the torque curve more finely. Low end power is delivered more smoothly; power on the top end is more accessible and arrives much sooner. There's also of course the advantages in MPG. Spend the extra, you'll thank yourself later.

snagitseven

And, of course, there are many other reasons to buy a later model, lower mileage used car.

MonzaA5

I have driven both and, IMO, the 8 speed is a much better gearbox. It makes the car quite noticeably faster and the sifts are quicker and smoother.

Kris Hansen

In my experience, the 8 speed has much tighter ratios, so it climbs through the gears more quickly and smoothly, with no long gaps between gears. Also, on the highway you are only cruising at around 2k rpm, so you get great mileage.