The Ford PowerShift

It seems that the future of transmissions lies with the DSG, as we’re staring to see production dual-clutch units become available from more and more manufacturers. Ford already has a DSG in production, a wet-clutch unit similar to ones available fom VW, but it’s only available in the Euro Focus with the 2L diesel powerplant.

PowerShift provides the full comfort of an automatic with a more sophisticated driving dynamic, thanks to uninterrupted torque from the dual-clutch technology, which consists essentially of two manual transmissions working in parallel, each with its own independent clutch unit. One clutch carries the uneven gears – 1, 3 and 5 – while the other the even gears – 2, 4 and 6. Subsequent gear changes are coordinated between both clutches as they engage and disengage for a seamless delivery of torque to the wheels.

The newly-announced dry-clutch PowerShift unit looks to be ready for debut in the new Fiesta, and even provides 9% improved fuel economy over the 4-speed auto also available in the Fiesta. That’s not an insignificant figure, especially in an already efficient small car. The downside is that while it’s more efficient, it’s likely to add a significant chunk to the Fiesta’s base price. That said, is it worth it to have a DSG in a small, fun car with clutchless manual control? You bet!