What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Which automatic - the Ford Mondeo or Volkswagen Passat?

I am thinking of buying either a Ford Mondeo or a Volkswagen Passat, preferably an automatic. Am I right in thinking that they both use a double clutch arrangement which is essentially electronically controlled? Which is the better, the Ford or the Volkswagen?

Asked on 11 October 2012 by RM, Burntwood

Answered by Honest John
Yes, they both now have dual clutch ‘pre-selector’ transmissions. The Ford/Getrag Powershift is a later system and more driver friendly. No need to brake to shift from N to D, for instance, no hesitation when pulling out of side roads, and no jerkiness when trying to reverse. However, like many modern autoboxes, it does require fresh fluid every three years at a cost of up to £250.
Similar questions
My shortlist of new cars is down to three: Mercedes-Benz B-Class, Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf, all with automatic gearboxes. I am aware of your reviews that rate highly the latter two, but I also see a...
I’m looking at buying a secondhand BMW 335i. I had one of the first in 2006 and always regretted selling it. I can’t drive a manual due to a disability. Looking at the BMW website, there appear to be some...
I wonder if you have had any comments about the double clutch automatic gearbox that Ford is fitting in place of the conventional epicyclic gearbox with torque converter. I recently bought a Ford Mondeo...
Related models
Very good to drive. Refined and comfortable to travel in. Massively roomy cabin and huge boot. Reasonable value. Efficient ECOnetic and EcoBoost models.
Incredibly spacious as a saloon or estate, excellent range of engines and trim levels, comfortable and refined on the move.