Audi to replace existing six-speed automatics with new eight-speed transmissions

The new transmission will be made available for cars sold in the US initially, with no word on when the new eight-speed automatic will be offered for the rest of the world. The new transmission, which was developed by ZF, will replace the existing six-speed units, and will be offered on about 70 percent of Audi's range.

Among the models that will receive the new eight-speed automatic are the 2.0-litre turbocharged versions of the Audi A4 sedan and Avant estate, the A5 coupe and cabriolet, and the Q5 off-roader. All versions of the Q7 and the A8 and A8 L will also be fitted with the new transmission.

Meanwhile, all versions of the A6 and S6, the front-wheel-drive variants of the A4 and A5, the S5 performance coupe, and the 3.2-litre Q5 models will be available with either the six-speed automatic gearbox or the CVT. Cars sold with Audi's existing R-tronic dual-clutch automated manual gearbox will not be affected, and the R8 V8 and V10 supercars will retain their existing six-speed manual or R-tronic transmissions.