Automatic car owners look set for a performance revolution with the new Aisin AQ300 gearbox. Manufactured in Brazil, the new 8-speed transmission will replace the current generation of 6 and 7-speed gearboxes.
The Aisin AQ300 promises improved performance and increased torque output and is expected to be introduced in Skoda and Volkswagen models by 2026.
What sets the Aisin AQ300 gearbox apart?
The new Aisin unit is all about that 8-speed transmission, offering significantly higher torque than previous gearboxes. This robust unit is designed to reduce engine effort, improve engine performance, and reduce emissions to comply with upcoming Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFÉ) III norms. What’s more, the new transmission packs plenty of power for exceptional performance with a torque output of up to 350 Nm.
Details are currently thin on the ground, but drivers can expect improved gear ratios and a final gear ratio of 3:73:1 from two planetary gear sets. With newly enhanced durability, drivers can expect minimal issues from this robust DSG gearbox. The cost isn’t yet known, but DSG units are considerably more complex than traditional automatic transmissions and are priced accordingly.
What are the pros and cons of this new DSG gearbox?
Like any DSG gearbox, the Aisin AQ300 is expected to make gearchanges super smooth and lightning-fast by pre-selecting gear ratios. This results in better fuel efficiency and an incredible, sporty driving experience. Moreover, the dual-clutch design is compact and space-saving, while gear-changing performance is efficient with minimal power loss.
There are downsides — DSG gearboxes can be jerky in stop-start traffic conditions, and the driving dynamics take some getting used to. But while there were reliability concerns in early models, the technology has improved incredibly. And remember, you can always enjoy the services of a DSG gearbox repair specialist.
When is the new Aisin AQ300 gearbox available?
Reports vary, with some news outlets citing a mid-lifecycle update from 2025. It’s expected to debut in a pair of Volkswagen SUVs, most likely the Virtus and Taigun, in 2026. Skoda is actively seeking to localise production in India, where the company is looking for a 5% market share by 2030.
Which cars could benefit from the new Aisin AQ300 gearbox?
It seems likely that high-end versions of the Skoda Slavia and Kushaq, plus VW’s Taigun and Virtus, will benefit from the upgrade. Top trims of these models currently use a 6-gear automatic unit, so the new Aisin equipment promises to boost performance and fuel efficiency.
Both manufacturers hope to roll out the Aisin AQ300 beyond their SUV range. As Toyota has a stake in Aisin, this powerful unit may also find its way into their upcoming vehicles.
VW and Skoda are betting on the new unit to meet the growing demand for automatics in the Indian and Brazilian markets.
Your go-to for DSG gearbox repairs
More vehicles than ever are experiencing the benefits of direct-shift gearboxes. So, if problems occur, you need trusted professionals to undertake your repairs. At Autogearbox, we’re your go-to experts for automatic gearbox repairs. Contact us today and we’ll be happy to get you back on the road as quickly as possible.