For an enthusiast in the real world, a car that’s both engaging to drive when the mood strikes and convenient and effortless when you’re taking it easy is ideal.
A great way to achieve this perfect balance is to choose a car equipped with a dual-clutch transmission. Models equipped with this specific transmission option offer the best of both worlds: Some of the engagement of a conventional manual and the simplicity of a regular automatic.
Before we discuss some of the best driver’s cars available with dual-clutch transmissions, it is worthwhile going over how a dual-clutch transmission works, a brief history of its development, and some of the positives and negatives to consider.
How A Dual-Clutch Transmission Works
Volkswagen
A dual-clutch transmission is controlled by a sophisticated network of computers, electronics, and hydraulics, allowing for quick gear changes without disrupting the power flow from the engine to the transmission.
In a typical dual-clutch transmission, one clutch controls the odd numbered gears (1, 3, 5) plus reverse, while the other operates the even-numbered (2, 4, 6) gears. In essence, a dual-clutch is two gearboxes in one unit.
The benefit of the dual-clutch system is that while one gear is selected, the next gear is pre-selected in advance and ready to immediately engage when the transmission’s computer decides to transition to the next gear. This allows for seamless, instant gear changes that happen in milliseconds, with no loss in power delivery.
A Brief History Of The Dual-Clutch Transmission
The concept of a dual-clutch transmission was first invented in 1939, by engineer Adolphe Kegresse. The French engineer intended for a French automobile, the Citroën Traction Avant, to utilize it. However, Kegresse ran out of money before he could produce a functional model, leaving the dual-clutch transmission as a mere idea.
The idea of a dual-clutch transmission was revived through research and development in motorsports. German brands such as Porsche and Audi developed early iterations of dual-clutch transmissions that were primarily utilized by their race cars, from touring cars to rally racers. Cars such as the Audi Sport Quattro S1 E2 featured a dual-clutch transmission that allowed it to be capable of lightning acceleration and, as a result, blisteringly fast time trial records.
Volkswagen UK
However, dual-clutch transmissions would not emerge onto the mass market until the early 2000s, with the introduction of the Mk 4-generation Volkswagen Golf R32. With its VR6 engine and 4Motion all-wheel drive, the Golf R32 was the first to utilize the brand’s then-new Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) – the first mass-production dual-clutch transmission. The advantages of this new transmission technology were evident in the Golf R32’s reported 0-62 mph times – whereas a manual-equipped R32 could reach 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds, a DSG-equipped R32 could reportedly achieve it in 6.4 seconds.
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Dual-Clutch Transmission: Pros And Cons
There are several benefits and disadvantages to consider when looking to purchase a car equipped with a dual-clutch transmission. These can include, but are not limited to, the following:
Pros:
Precise, rapid gear changes – much quicker than if performed manually. Changes can occur within milliseconds so that they are barely noticeable.
Fast gear changes allow for quicker acceleration times (0-60 mph), as well as little to no loss of power delivery.
Ease of use, minimal learning curve – DCTs are as easy to use as any traditional automatic.
The best of both worlds: A DCT can remain in automatic mode, shifting gears on its own, and when desired, change gears manually by the driver through paddle shifters or manual modes.
Greater fuel efficiency and average MPG ratings, compared to models equipped with manual or torque-converter automatic transmissions.
Cons:
DCTs are more complicated to produce and maintain – they use more complex parts, as well as sophisticated computerized systems.
Cars equipped with DCTs can be more expensive to buy new than their manual counterparts.
Certain climates and environments can wear down DCT components faster, especially the clutch units.
DCT units add more weight to a car – the added complexity and parts result in a dual-clutch transmission unit as a whole weighing more than the equivalent manual transmission unit.
DCTs are primarily available in cars made from the mid-2000s onwards, but not cars from older periods (80s/90s), as the technology was not widely available in that time period.
Now that we have a clear idea of what dual-clutch transmissions are, these are some of the best driver’s cars to be equipped with a DCT.
10
Volkswagen Golf GTI (MK7)
Volkswagen
The MK7-generation Golf GTI continued offering Volkswagen’s DSG dual-clutch transmission since the MK5-generation GTI introduced it as an optional extra. Since the introduction of DSG into GTI models, the transmission has been praised by the motoring press and GTI owners alike. Reportedly, some even went as far as recommending the DSG over the six-speed manual if one wanted to enjoy the GTI’s full driving potential.
The MK7 Golf GTI, produced for the 2015 to 2021 model years in North America, continued this tried and tested formula. With the iconic GTI ‘Honeycomb’ front grille and other GTI-specific styling details, the MK7-generation GTI featured a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 210 hp initially, before an increase to 228 hp. Equipped with the seven-speed DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox), the GTI could achieve 0-62 mph in around 6.5 seconds.
Being the first brand to introduce dual-clutch transmissions to the mass market, Volkswagen still continues to feature DSG transmissions as a transmission option in its vehicles. The brand has continued to develop and offer dual-clutch transmissions in various Volkswagen models worldwide, from the subcompact Polo to the luxurious Arteon sedan.
Engine
2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, 210 hp – 228 hp
0-62 mph
~6.5 seconds
Number of Gears
7
Name of DCT
DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox)
Fuel Economy
28 mpg combined
9
Hyundai Elantra N
Hyundai
Hyundai’s N Division has been on a hot streak of exciting models since its introduction – everything from the Kona crossover to the Veloster hatchback. The Elantra N (also known as the Avante N in its home market of Korea), is one example that has been widely praised by the motoring press and enthusiasts. Aimed at rivals in the hot hatch segment, such as the Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf R, the Elantra N features an eight-speed N-tuned DCT, paired with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine that pushes out 276 hp. Equipped with the N-DCT transmission, the 0-60 mph sprint is done in 4.8 seconds, based on independent testing.
Hyundai specializes in a specific type of dual-clutch transmission – a ‘wet’ clutch type. This version of a DCT transmission utilizes an electric oil pump to circulate movement within the gearbox, allowing for better transmission cooling and thermal endurance. The advantage of a wet clutch DCT is that it allows for higher engine torque loads the transmission can handle – essential for a high-performance model like the Elantra N.
Engine
2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, 276 hp
0-60 mph
4.8 seconds
Number of Gears
8
Name of DCT
N-DCT (N-Dual Clutch Transmission)
Fuel Economy
23 mpg combined
8
BMW M2 (F87)
BMW USA
The successor to the 1 Series M Coupe, the M2 (F87) continued to offer a compact, rear-wheel-drive BMW M package, powered by a turbocharged inline-six with either a six-speed manual or M-DCT transmission. Equipped with the M-DCT, the M2 could go from 0-60 mph in around four seconds, based on independent tests, thanks to a 3.0L M-Division tuned turbocharged inline-six producing 405 hp in Competition guise. Interestingly, the manual was quicker to 60 in some cases.
Incorporating the M Division’s DCT transmission served as a big improvement from the brand’s older SMG semi-automatic transmission – offering the same level of precise, automated gear changes but without the jerkiness of the SMG.
While BMW’s M Division has incorporated dual-clutch transmissions for several M models in the past decade, the brand has decided to cease further development of dual-clutch transmissions. Dirk Hacker, Head of Development at BMW M, has stated: “The [traditional] automatic is better performing than the double clutch”. As demonstrated with models like the F90-generation M5, the ZF-sourced torque converter automatic transmissions are now capable of shifting at a similar pace as an M-DCT transmission.
Engine
3.0L turbocharged inline-six-cylinder, 405 hp
0-60 mph
4.0 seconds (with M-DCT)
Number of Gears
7
Name of DCT
M-DCT (M-Dual Clutch Transmission)
Fuel Economy
22 mpg combined
7
Audi RS3 Sedan
Audi Media
Revealed in 2022, the Audi RS3 is one of the few cars in the current market with a five-cylinder engine. The RS3 Sedan continues to offer a 2.5L turbocharged five-cylinder engine, as it did in its first iteration. It also continues to feature Audi’s signature quattro all-wheel-drive system and dual-clutch transmission, Audi S-Tronic. The five-cylinder engine produces 401 hp, resulting in a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds.
Being part of the same brand umbrella, Audi’s S-Tronic has evolved at the same pace as Volkswagen’s DSG transmission. S-Tronic was first utilized in the Audi TT (MK1) 3.2 V6, released at the same time as the MK4-generation Golf R32. In short, S-Tronic and DSG are identical transmission units – the only difference being they receive different names based on which brand and respective models utilize the transmission.
Engine
2.5L turbocharged five-cylinder, 401 hp
0-60 mph
3.6 seconds
Number of Gears
7
Name of DCT
Audi S-Tronic
Fuel Economy
23 mpg combined
6
Ferrari California
Ferrari Cars
The Ferrari California debuted as part of the Italian marque’s lineup in 2008, serving as the entry-level model in the Ferrari range.
This grand-tourer, 2+2 convertible did achieve more than just serve as the most accessible path into Ferrari’s world. The California was also the first Ferrari to feature a V8 engine in a ‘mid-front’ configuration, the first Ferrari hardtop convertible with an electrically-powered metal roof, the first Ferrari to use direct injection, and above all, the first Ferrari model in the company’s history to use a dual-clutch transmission. Combined with its 4.3L V8 producing 453 hp, the California could achieve 0-62 mph within 4.0 seconds.
Reportedly, thanks to the dual-clutch transmission used by the California, despite weighing more and producing less horsepower than the preceding F430, the California could still achieve an identical 0-60 time.
The California served as Ferrari’s first step into the application of dual-clutch transmissions, as the brand began transitioning from the older semi-automatic ‘F1’ style transmissions. From the California, as well as the 458 Italia released the following model year onwards, Ferrari has incorporated the use of dual-clutch transmissions in its lineup since.
Engine
4.3L naturally-aspirated V8, 453 hp
0-62 mph
4.0 seconds
Number of Gears
7
Fuel Economy
15 combined MPG
5
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X MR
Mitsubishi Motors
The last generation of Mitsubishi’s rally-bred sedan, the Lancer Evolution, was also the first Evolution to feature a dual-clutch transmission. This was the tenth generation Evolution (also known as the Evo X), produced for the 2008 to 2016 model years.
The Evolution X MR model sold in the US market came with Mitsubishi’s dual-clutch transmission – referred to as Twin-Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) as standard. Combined with the Evo X’s 2.0L turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, the Evo X MR could achieve a reported 0-60 mph time between 4.6-5.1 seconds. Keeping with tradition since the first Lancer Evolution, all of the Evo X’s power drove all four wheels.
Mitsubishi’s SST dual-clutch transmission was short-lived – having only been used in the Evo X, Lancer Ralliart, and Outlander SUV (2007-2013). As Mitsubishi has moved away from performance models towards hybrid/electric-powered SUVs and Crossovers with CVT automatic transmissions, it is highly unlikely Mitsubishi’s dual-clutch transmission will resurface for any upcoming models.
Engine
2.0L turbocharged inline four-cylinder, 291 hp
0-60 mph
4.6-5.1 seconds (est.)
Number of Gears
6
Name of DCT
Mitsubishi Twin Clutch SST (Sportronic Shift Transmission)
Fuel Economy
19 mpg combined
4
McLaren 720S
McLaren Cars
The 720S debuted for the 2017 model year, serving as the second in McLaren’s ‘Super Series’ and following the success of the 650S.
McLaren set new standards for agility with the 720S. With a teardrop-inspired exterior design for maximum aerodynamic efficiency, the 720S featured a 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 that produced 710 hp, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The recorded 0-60 mph time was also impressive: just 2.8 seconds.
McLaren has incorporated the use of dual-clutch transmissions since the brand’s revival in 2010 with the MP4-12C, their first in-house developed supercar since the legendary F1. The British supercar brand continues to evolve the dual-clutch transmission with each model release, including its latest series of high-performance hybrid supercars such as the Artura.
Engine
4.0L twin-turbocharged V8, 710 hp
0-60 mph
2.8 seconds
Number of Gears
7
Name of DCT
Graziano Dual Clutch
Fuel Economy
18 mpg combined
3
Mini Cooper S 3-Door (F56 LCI, 2018-2021)
Mini AG
Despite the brand’s acquisition by BMW in the early 2000s, the modern-era Mini Cooper retains its core traits that make a Mini a Mini. The F56-generation Mini Cooper hatch, first released in 2014, continued to offer the Mini signature ‘Bulldog’ front-end design, go-kart style handling, and fashionable looks among other compacts car rivals.
Mini Cooper S models offer excellent performance at an accessible price point, with a 2.0L turbocharged inline-four cylinder. The Cooper S models were further enhanced with an LCI (Life Cycle Impulse) update released for models 2018 onwards, that replaced the six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Mini AG
This enabled faster acceleration times for the Cooper S models, shaving off one second from its original 0-60 mph time (6.8 seconds for torque-converter Steptronic models, 6.7 seconds for DCT models).
Engine
2.0L turbocharged inline-four-cylinder, 189 hp
0-62 mph
6.7 secs (with DCT)
Number of Gears
7
Fuel Economy
28 combined MPG
2
Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Coupe PDK (997.2)
Porsche AG
The Porsche 911 is one of the most widely cherished driver’s cars on sale today, and for most modern enthusiasts, the 997-generation represents an ideal ‘best of both worlds’ combination – an uninterrupted, analog driving experience and naturally aspirated engines, with modern amenities and styling that has aged gracefully to the current day.
As part of a mid-life update, also known as the ‘997.2’ generation lasting from 2009 to 2013, Porsche introduced a new type of automatic transmission. Replacing the Tiptronic Transmission used by the preceding 997.1 generation models, Porsche’s dual-clutch transmission, Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) served as the automatic transmission option, alongside the factory manual.
Available from the Carrera 2 to the Turbo, the PDK dual-clutch transmission was also available in the highly desirable 911 GTS. GTS models stood out from other models in the 997.2 range, combining the power and handling of a 911 GT3 (997) with the comfort and practicality of the standard Carrera hardtop coupe. 911 GTS models equipped with PDK could achieve a 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.4 seconds. This complemented the GTS’s larger 3.8L flat-six engine equipped with the ‘Powerkit’ as standard, and a wider track chassis for better grip and handling.
997.2 generation 911s were among the first Porsche models to utilize the PDK transmission. Since then, Porsche has continued to apply and refine the transmission over the years, with the transmission becoming available across all Porsche models – from the entry level Boxster to the Panamera luxury sedan and the Macan crossover SUV.
Engine
3.8L naturally-aspirated flat-six, 400 hp
0-60 mph
4.4 seconds (with PDK)
Number of Gears
7
Name of DCT
PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe)
Fuel Economy
21 mpg combined
For purist Porsche fans, this does not mean the manual transmission is at its end. There are still options for those looking to buy a new Porsche equipped with a manual transmission.
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1
Alfa Romeo 4C Coupe
Alfa Romeo USA
The introduction of the 4C Coupe marked Alfa Romeo’s return to the US market in the mid-2010s. The Italian brand aimed to target enthusiasts and Alfa fans in the Americas firmly, by offering a lightweight, rear-wheel drive, compact sports car – the bare essentials of the perfect driver’s car.
Equipped with Alfa Romeo’s TCT dry-clutch-based dual-clutch transmission as the sole transmission option, the 4C featured a 1.75L turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine mounted in a mid-engine configuration, with all 237 hp sent to the rear wheels. With a lightweight body, perfect weight distribution, and a low ride height, the Alfa Romeo 4C may be small, but big in delivering the best possible driving experience for a modern sports car. The 4C could hit 60 in under 4.5 seconds, based on independent tests.
While the 4C has ended production, Alfa Romeo has not retired the use of the TCT dual-clutch transmission entirely. While most models sold in the US market feature a ZF-sourced automatic transmission, Alfa’s premium crossover SUV, the Tonale, has succeeded as the sole model in the brand’s lineup to feature the TCT dual-clutch technology.
In a review of the 2017 4C Coupe, we highlighted the TCT experience as a dual-clutch transmission that “changes gears quite quickly and smoothly in both the fully automatic and the manual modes.”
Engine
1.75L turbocharged inline four cylinder, 237 hp
0-60 mph
4.2 seconds
Number of Gears
6
Name of DCT
Alfa TCT
Fuel Economy
28 mpg combined