This more than likely means that Canada will follow suit. Is this tragic news? Yes. Is this the end of performance driving as we know it for Audi enthusiasts? No.
In fact, the current S4 is no longer available with the manual gearbox, nor is the R8. At the moment, in Canada, if you prefer three pedals, you’ll find only find options in the A4 and A5 with the 2.0-litre TFSI engine. In other words, Audi’s been telling us that the manual gearbox’s days were numbered for a while now.
Like I said, this is not the end the world as the s tronic automated dual-clutch manual transmission is beyond excellent. It’s quicker in every respect and returns better fuel mileage. Are we sad about the news? Absolutely. One of us recently purchased an 08 A4 Avant with a 6-speed manual to try and hold on to the past…
The issue here is that barely 5% of A4/A5 buyers opted for the manual. Audi’s in business to make money. As an alternative, BMW still has the option in the 2-, 3- and 4-Series cars. And in the Ms!!
