Audis generally do not use a CVT in current production. The vast majority of Audi models rely on dual‑clutch S tronic transmissions or traditional automatic Tiptronic gearboxes, while electric models use single‑speed reductions rather than CVTs. A CVT, historically known as Multitronic, was offered in some older Audi front‑wheel‑drive cars but has since been phased out.
These transmission choices reflect Audi’s focus on performance, efficiency, and drivability across gasoline, diesel, plug‑in hybrid, and electric variants. The information below outlines the historical use of Multitronic and how Audi currently outfits its lineup with transmissions.
Historical note: when did Audi use Multitronic?
Multitronic was Audi’s CVT solution for many front‑wheel‑drive models, primarily in the late 1990s through the 2010s. It aimed to deliver smooth acceleration and improved fuel economy, but it faced reliability and performance criticisms, especially with higher‑torque engines. Audi gradually replaced Multitronic with S tronic or Tiptronic in newer platforms.
- The technology was phased out as newer platforms and powertrains emerged, shifting the lineup toward dual‑clutch and conventional automatic transmissions.
Multitronic appeared on several front‑wheel‑drive Audi models across multiple generations, most notably in the A3, A4, and A6 families during the late 1990s to mid‑2010s.
Today, Multitronic is no longer used in production Audis, and CVTs are not part of the current lineup.
Current transmission landscape in Audi’s lineup
Before diving into the specifics, note that Audi’s transmission choices vary by model, market, and drivetrain. The following overview reflects common configurations in contemporary Audi models.
- S tronic: The dual‑clutch automatic is the most common transmission for many non‑electric Audi models, delivering fast, seamless shifts across sedans, sportbacks, and crossovers (A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, Q3, Q5, Q7, etc.).
- Tiptronic: A traditional torque‑converter automatic used on select engines and markets, often for larger sedans and certain trims where a smooth, comfortable cruising experience is prioritized (typically as an 8‑speed unit).
- Electric models: Audi’s pure‑electric lineup (such as the e‑tron family, including the e‑tron SUV and e‑tron GT) uses a single‑speed transmission on the electric drive motor, avoiding a CVT altogether.
In short, if you’re shopping for a new Audi, expect S tronic as the standard automated option on most models, with Tiptronic appearing on select variants, while electric models rely on a single‑speed transmission rather than a CVT.
Summary
Audis do not use a CVT in modern production vehicles. The brand primarily employs dual‑clutch S tronic transmissions or traditional Tiptronic automatics, and its electric models use single‑speed gear reductions. Historically, Audi offered a CVT called Multitronic on some older front‑drive models, but that technology has been retired in favor of more efficient, reliable systems.