FYI: The Dual-Clutch Transmission Has Been Phased Out for Most VW Models in the U.S.
The rare sight of a dual-clutch automatic transmission in Volkswagen cars just got even rarer. Revealed during the 2025 Taos unveiling in Orlando, Florida, Volkswagen announced to Motor Authority that their DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) dual-clutch automatic transmission will no longer be available in the U.S.—except for select performance vehicles.
The 2024 Taos subcompact crossover SUV was the last mainstream model to feature the DSG, specifically in its all-wheel-drive variant. The front-wheel-drive models had already transitioned to the more conventional 8-speed automatic transmission using a torque converter. With the refreshed 2025 Taos, Volkswagen has phased out the DSG entirely, replacing it across all models with the 8-speed automatic.
### A Shift in Strategy
According to Melinda Godec, a VW product manager, this change was driven by customer preferences. “It was a test in the Taos. Moving from a smaller vehicle like a GTI to an SUV had us wondering whether people would appreciate the DSG. We listened to customer feedback,” Godec mentioned to Motor Authority.
The Taos plays a crucial role for Volkswagen in gaining market share from competitors, most of which do not use dual-clutch transmissions. Test drivers found the DSG lacking in smoothness, particularly during shifts and initial forward movement. The dual-clutch mechanism often led to a noticeable lag when starting from a stop, which didn’t sit well with many drivers.
### Customer-Centric Approach
Godec emphasized that Volkswagen needs to cater to current customer expectations and preferences. “We need to meet them where they are and not expect changed behavior,” she stated.
### Remaining DSG Models
Despite this mainstream phase-out, the DSG will continue in Volkswagen’s performance vehicles such as the Jetta GLI sport sedan, as well as the Golf GTI and Golf R hot hatches.
### Market Insight
Volkswagen’s sales volume is increasing thanks to a focus on U.S.-specific build configurations that resonate with local consumer preferences.
### Historical Context
Volkswagen introduced the DSG in the 2003 Mk IV Golf R32 hot hatch. However, it wasn’t until 2007 with the Mk V R32 that the transmission made its debut in the U.S. market.
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Steven Hale, Editor of Automotive.fyi
