VW Puts 10-Speed Gearbox on Hold

Volkswagen AG has halted development of its 10-speed dual-clutch (DSG) automatic transmission, Autocar reports. The decision is attributed to the program's rising engineering costs, the U.K. enthusiast magazine says, citing unnamed VW officials.

Unveiled as a concept in 2013, the 10-speed transmission was expected to replace VW's current 6-speed DSG unit in a variety of future vehicles including the high-volume Passat midsize car. Rival Mercedes-Benz already offers a 9-speed automatic on several of its vehicles.

Autocar notes that the more efficient 10-speed gearbox could help VW's diesel-powered vehicles meet more stringent emissions in Europe.