DSG or Manual

[QD MBE]

The Gayness of this thread astounds me.................................
 

[alexperkins]

In all honesty, I would have had manual or DSG as I like both in different ways, but DSG was the first one i drove and it was just great

[Hurdy]

The Gayness of this thread astounds me.................................
 

Group hug QD 

You know you want to.

[George]

After reading this thread, along with others, and watching youtube videos, DSG does seem like a no brainer, especially on a used car where there's no price difference.

I'll report back tomorrow afternoon after I've driven a GTi with DSG 

[Hedge]

The Gayness of this thread astounds me.................................
 

  Not everyone carries a spare coil pack like you QD.

[openside]

DSG, after 20 years driving manual and 2 weeks driving DSG, I would still go DSG takes a bit of getting used to(make sure you keep your left foot planted on the foot rest or risk headbutting the windscreen like i did). Ive got mine in for an oil and filter change next week for around £130 so thats worth bearing in mind, but an essential requirement!

[john_o]

usual banter... 

both are great gearboxes tbh.
manual could do with the throw reducing (easy DIY mod available)
and the DSG goes to another level with a DSG software map.
The DSG is faster no doubt and is so slick (even before the map  )

as a new or nearly new car with warranty i'd say go DSG

moving onto secondhand with mores miles and limited or no warranty I think the tide starts to turn a bit.
DSG boxes seem either bullet proof or temperamental with no ryhme or reason to it.
The problem is that if you get issues they can get expensive quickly, a new mechatronics unit or a new ( or refurbished) gearbox required for most issues with DSG.

Manual still not cheap, but add a map and you need to budget for a clutch (and probably a flywheel too!)

As others have said, try both and get a warranty (that will cover the items you expect) if you are so inclined.

Me? I have a manual and enjoy the feeling 'driving' but would equally have loved a DSG, and realise that at some point I may need a clutch but for now its stil hanging on  with REVO stg1.

[Greeners]

Agree with John..........

I've had both and it's a tricky one as with many driving conditions (ie everyday driving around town) it has to be DSG, but for spirited driving and any track work then it has to be manual.

No matter how much I tried to fall in love with DSG I couldn't help but feel a little disconnected to the whole gear-changing experience, especially when pressing on.............

My R32 for example had to be DSG in my mind as I just felt it suited the nature of the engine more than a manual.

[Kregiel]

I have both DSG in GT 170 bhp and manual in GTI. They can't really be compared as two different machines in my view. DSG is very smooth and in manual shifts up to 6th at 60 km/h so sometimes you think you're driving a big engine limo as it's so quiet and kinda refined. Personally there are times I fancy DSG over manual for just rolling and taking it easy. GTi in manual is my daily driver as dsg with my missus. I found dsg less engaging than manual despite manual shifting option.
Try both and judge for yourself..
Best of luck
Paul

[animal]

My R32 for example had to be DSG in my mind as I just felt it suited the nature of the engine more than a manual.

Agreed, a manual R32 just doesnt seem right for some reason.

I'm also going to second the comment regarding getting used to it. At the very least make sure you get an extended test.

Have a go at pulling away from stationary (hard and gently), gentle in-gear acceleration, kick-down, really give it some then slow down and drive slowly and smoothly (all in D and S) and of course, play around with reverse too. A three/four point turn (D to R and back several times in quick succession) is a good test. All of the above with give the box a good work out and will most likely highlight some DSG's 'characteristics'. The temperature of the 'box makes a difference too, so have a play at low speed when its hot and cold.