The extra ratios are said to make significant improvement in fuel economy and a corresponding reduction in CO2 emissions while smaller steps between ratios give improved response during acceleration, improved shift quality, drive and refinement. The higher top gear not only reduces fuel consumption but the lower engine revs improve comfort and reduce noise when cruising at high speed.
Despite offering three more ratios the new unit is only 6mm longer than the one it will replace and weighs 7.5kg less. It also has the ability to 'learn' the owner's driving style, holding on to gears and quickening shifts if necessary.
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