What are the reasons behind not getting the DSG tune. Every customer we flash with DSG they wonder why they didn't do it from the start.
I have thought long and hard and decided against it.. I was originally booked to get it along with the stage 1 93 high output tune. Was offered a combo discount as well...
Anyway here goes...
Increased clamping pressure
If my dsg fluids were not low and I had clutch slip, I would not hesitate getting this tune on a trial basis to confirm it will fix the slipping.
But honestly, out of all the reviews and research I've done; I have only found 1 individual on the mk7 platform reporting fluids were good and a TCU upgrade fixing their reported slipping issue. (Can't recall which ECU tune they were using, but APR TCU fixed it for them)
Optimized Shift Points, smoother Daily Driving and
Quicker shifts
I only use D mode after a cold start until engine oil and dsg is warmed up, then I'm using manual mode 99% of the time.
Seems great for those that drive in D mode on a regular.
A couple of milliseconds I can live without. I can make up for it easily with the estimated 80/70 tq/hp ecu tune, shaving off unsprung wheel weight etc. This is just how I view it.
Although no mention of shift input response time, I've been driving dual clutch vehicles for awhile, I've learned to adapt to the delay, and have with the R. Would be nice though. LFA type shifts!!?
Increased RPM range
I would love this option!
Adjustable 3-Step launch control and increased RPM option
4k rpm is fine, I can easily adjust my throttle position if I wanted to launch at a lower rpm.
LC isn't something I'd use often. During the first month of ownership? DEFINITELY!, after a tune? YES!, after sticky tires and suspension and support YES!. Drag strip? YES! No more than 25 launches in 7 years with my mk6, can't see it being anymore with the R.
User Definable Manual Mode
I've dyno'd and have done numerous data logging, I have no issues with the kickdown switch.
Disabling Auto downshifts?
I'm fine with this when rolling to a stop, with the mk6 and mk7 I have not experienced the shudder issue that people speak of. It seems to be common when in D mode? I never downshift to 1 or N to disengage with the DSG. When spirited driving in M, you'd downshift prior to the TCU interfering.
Downshift Lockout Optimized
I think the stock TCU does a fine job with this feature already? Never had issues dropping down 2 or 3 gears quickly just before attacking a corner. Then again I don't track competitively, only casual lap days in the past.
Raised Torque Limiters/additional protection
Supportive data would be nice? But seriously, this will most likely benefit Stage 3 or Stage2 93 high torque users.
APR and any other tuning company wouldn't release multiple output options for stage 1 or 2 if the average standard dsg and stock TCU couldn't support it. Wouldn't make any business sense
With that said, let's say APR releases a fourth option to the low, medium and high TQ options, and called it insane where it's rated to 435TQ. I could see the TCU being a minimum requirement, just as how an IC is required for the the high TQ tune to support the greater hp and tq levels.
Temperature Management Optimized
If APR provided a bit more detail and data, OK! I'd be all over this. More protection the better! It probably is optimized for the changes made to their version of the TCU.
From what I recall stock torque clutch protection limitation is set to less than 1020 NM. Meaning it'll make necessary adjustments to protect, be it limiting speed, locking out shifts, etc...
Preserving the plates is always a good thing, but I'd have to consider this selling point with a grain of salt.
Gear Display Activated
M Mode
Out of all of the reviews I've read, a majority of emphasis and positive notes were on the changes to the D full auto mode and it's behavior along with S mode being a bit more practical. Maybe a total of 3 negative reviews. I do not doubt the positive reviews either. APR has developed a great product to sell, for this audience. Good job!
With all that said, I have yet to see a review from a user that predominately uses M mode. Have you had slipping? did it fix it?, are shift input and response actually improved? Are shifts actually noticeably faster?
If an a la cart offering was available for the TCU upgrade, I'd get it.
i.e if stripped version of the tcu tune was avail, i.e Increased Clutch Clamping Pressure, higher RPM + the accommodating protection adjustments set at a base of 30% less the retail of the current tcu tune.
But for all of the features listed and the current price point, It just seemed to be something to pass on.
(sorry if my engrish, reasoning don't make sense to some of you readers)
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