Photo: SEAT
If we remember correctly, the 1.8 TSI was one of the few big tasks SEAT got when the MQB platform was being put together. The turbocharged engine has not proven all that popular, and it seems VW bosses are trying to replace it with a de-tuned version of the 2.0 TSI.
However, several compacts and subcompacts within the group still rely on this unit, and we've discovered something strange. When models like the Golf Alltrack and Octavia Combi were introduced, we were told the 1.8 TSI would be paired with a 7-speed DSG. But that's not the case for 4x4s.
SEAT calls it 4Drive, Skoda 4x4, and Volkswagen 4Motion, but this AWD system is the same Haldex5 coupling. When you have it on your car together with the 1.8 TSI, Volkswagen gives you a 6-speed gearbox instead.
So what's going on? Well, the Polo GTI and Leon FR have the DQ200 version of the DSG gearbox with seven forward speeds. Because of that, the torque of the 1.8-liter engine has to be reduced from 280 to 250 Nm. Because 4x4 models weigh more and have a higher drivetrain loss, engineers decided to use the 6-speed DQ250 instead. It's a wet-clutch gearbox as opposed to the dry 7-speed, and most people prefer it.
So the upside is that the Leon X-Perience 1.8 TSI and its counterparts from the Golf Alltrack and Octavia Scout ranges have a great gearbox. The downside is the fuel consumption, which is about the same as a Cupra model: 8 l/100km around town (officially, but it's going to be 10 in the real world).
Using the DQ250 on the 4x4 gives those who want more power and torque the ability to cope with it. But the specific unit (DQ250-6A) is not as sophisticated as what you find in the Tiguan, new or old. It just goes to show you that just because Volkswagen calls something "DSG with AWD" doesn't mean it's an SUV.
SEAT calls it 4Drive, Skoda 4x4, and Volkswagen 4Motion, but this AWD system is the same Haldex5 coupling. When you have it on your car together with the 1.8 TSI, Volkswagen gives you a 6-speed gearbox instead.
So what's going on? Well, the Polo GTI and Leon FR have the DQ200 version of the DSG gearbox with seven forward speeds. Because of that, the torque of the 1.8-liter engine has to be reduced from 280 to 250 Nm. Because 4x4 models weigh more and have a higher drivetrain loss, engineers decided to use the 6-speed DQ250 instead. It's a wet-clutch gearbox as opposed to the dry 7-speed, and most people prefer it.
So the upside is that the Leon X-Perience 1.8 TSI and its counterparts from the Golf Alltrack and Octavia Scout ranges have a great gearbox. The downside is the fuel consumption, which is about the same as a Cupra model: 8 l/100km around town (officially, but it's going to be 10 in the real world).
Using the DQ250 on the 4x4 gives those who want more power and torque the ability to cope with it. But the specific unit (DQ250-6A) is not as sophisticated as what you find in the Tiguan, new or old. It just goes to show you that just because Volkswagen calls something "DSG with AWD" doesn't mean it's an SUV.
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