VW to feel the joy of six

VOLKSWAGEN is set to become the first volume carmaker in the world to offer standard six-speed manual gearboxes across its entire range.

The company is developing a series of new units based on the six-speed unit already used in the range-topping Golf and Passat models.

The move to six speeds across the entire VW line-up begins in earnest later this year and is designed to reduce fuel consumption by between 10 and 12 per cent.

According to British Autocar magazine, the six-speed switch will also apply to VW affiliates Audi, Seat and Skoda.

Automatic transmissions will also be upgraded with five-speed units replacing existing four-speed models.

Each of the three new manual gearboxes will have magnesium cases and have been designed specifically for transverse engines and front wheel-drive, so the Passat with its longitudinal engine will have a different six-speed unit.

They have been designated MQ200, MQ250 and MQ350, according to how much torque they are designed to handle.