Volkswagen Multitronic gearbox: VW Multitronic is an automaker's first-generation Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT) that sits outside of standard automatic gears. Although both aim to automate gear changes and make driving easier, they differ a lot in how they work, perform and benefit. In this article, we’ll explore some key differences between the VW Multitronic gearbox and other traditional automatics to let motorists see what benefits and potential disadvantages each offers.

What Is The VW Multitronic Gearbox?

Volkswagen Multitronic CVT gearbox – fixed gears not necessary VW Multitronic has CVT drive system. Rather, it relies on a network of movable pulleys and a steel chain to enable endless combinations of gear ratios. It lets the transmission change to the perfect gear ratio depending on what you’re driving for quiet, smooth acceleration.

Instead, manual transmissions are built around a set of permanent gears, usually between 5 and 10, that move in parallel as the car accelerates. These transmissions employ a torque converter to coordinate drive from the engine to the wheels by providing fixed gear changes at pre-determined ratios.

Smoother Driving Experience

The best contrast between the VW Multitronic transmission and an older generation of automatics is the ride quality. Because Multitronic doesn’t require switching between manual and automatic gears, it allows the driver to drive at higher, constant acceleration. This is a better car to drive on in traffic and at low speeds when you don’t want the abrupt changes in gears.

Classic automatics on the other hand shift in unique gears — particularly when you get really fast. Modern automatics are much smoother, but shifts still exist – even in hard acceleration due to the inherent mechanics of a fixed-gear vehicle.

Fuel Efficiency

The VW Multitronic gearbox is also more fuel-efficient than the majority of standard automatics. It will keep working towards the perfect ratio of gears, allowing the engine to operate at its optimal rate more often. This saves fuel especially in the city driving when accelerating and braking repeatedly would reduce efficiency.

Standard automatics, while improved over the past few years, are inefficient, as they’re forced through fixed gears that can put the engine at an undesirable speed. Yet there are now newer versions of automatic transmissions with extra gears (8- or 10-speed automatics), shortening the time between gear changes and improving performance.

Performance and Responsiveness

Though it makes for an effortless drive, a VW Multitronic gearbox won’t satisfy some motorists as a sharp and engaging option over standard automatic transmissions. There’s a degree of lag in the Multitronic’s intermittent nature, especially with very high acceleration, when the engine kicks in but the car doesn’t immediately snap back to life like a traditional automatic would.

Old-school automatics, especially those with sport or manual shift modes, are much more direct when it comes to gear changes. This can lend them more appeal to performance-minded drivers who want the tactile sensation of smooth gear changes when they accelerate or decrease.

Maintenance and Longevity

Both the VW Multitronic gearbox and the old automatic need maintenance, though the maintenance varies from car to car. CVTs such as the Multitronic system, for instance, require transmission fluid to work properly. Maintaining the fluid fresh and balanced is critical for extending the life of the gearbox. With the wear and tear, slipping or a reduced performance is a common result of using the chain or pulleys over time that might cost you hundreds to replace.

Old-school automatics need a fluid update, too, but are more likely to last. However, when they do get stuck, say, the torque converter or the gear synchronizers, it is costly to fix.

Conclusion

VW Multitronic transmissions and manual transmissions have pros and cons. The Multitronic might be the answer for anyone who wants to experience a better, more economical ride. Because of its constant variable mode, it delivers an upgraded driving experience especially on the road. But if performance and responsiveness are more important to you, then old-school automatics could provide a more exciting driving proposition.

Ultimately, the decision between a VW Multitronic and an automatic transmission is a matter of preference and need. There are pros and cons to both systems and knowing which system is right for you can make it a little bit more complicated for drivers.