Mercedes-Benz has inaugurated production of the new 8G-DCT gearbox—a move that marks a major milestone in the brand’s engineering evolution. Built to redefine driving performance, this new automatic gearbox blends advanced efficiency with precision technology. Series production has officially kicked off, and it’s happening under the expert hands at Star Transmission, a wholly owned Star Transmission subsidiary known for its exacting standards and quality.
So, what exactly is the New Mercedes 8G-DCT gearbox? It’s an eight-speed double clutch transmission, crafted to meet the needs of both compact SUVs and passenger cars in the ever-evolving Mercedes-Benz lineup. From the new Mercedes-AMG GLA to the new B-Class, this gearbox isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a revolution.
Overview Of The 8G-DCT Gearbox: Key Features And Innovations
At its heart, the 8G-DCT gearbox offers unmatched responsiveness. The transmission includes eight finely-tuned gear ratios, ensuring smoother transitions whether you’re gliding through city traffic or powering down the highway. It’s not just about shifting gears; it’s about enhanced functionality that adapts to your driving style.
Plus, it’s fully integrated with intelligent systems like Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, helping maintain safe distances between vehicles automatically. This isn’t just a mechanical part—it’s a smart companion for modern driving.
Compact Design With Clever Gear Ratios
Think of the 8G‑DCT like a Swiss Army knife: compact but packed with versatility. By cleverly reusing gear wheels—6/8 and 7/5—the gearbox stays tight and light, while offering eight forward gears. The closer gear spacing helps the engine stay in its ideal zone, while the tall 8th gear lowers RPMs on the motorway, boosting fuel efficiency and making your drive whisper‑quiet.
Lightweight And Low Friction
Weighing about 3.6 kg less than its 7‑speed predecessor, the 8G‑DCT keeps things nimble . Inside, dry‑sump lubrication uses less oil and a light‑weight fluid. A smaller mechanical oil pump does the rest. Less oil means less drag, smoothing out gear shifts and keeping noise low.
Faster Shifts With Integrated Electronics
Mercedes embedded the gearbox electronics into the unit itself, using “potted” circuits and tiny magnets to trigger fast, precise shifts . The result? Lightning‑fast responses that feel intuitive—whether you’re overtaking on the motorway or powering out of a roundabout.
Built For High Torque And Heavy Use
The 8G‑DCT handles up to 520 Nm of torque, making it a perfect match for the new B-Class diesels and other compact models within the Mercedes lineup . It’s already onboard A- and B-Class, CLA, GLA, and even GLB models since 2019 .
Enhanced Driving Performance
Behind the wheel, the 8G-DCT truly shines. It’s designed to deliver peak torque at just the right moment. Whether you’re driving a new Mercedes-Benz compact model or a sporty Mercedes-AMG GLA, this transmission ensures fluid acceleration and an intuitive driving feel.
The AMG Performance steering wheel, often featured alongside the gearbox in sportier trims, allows drivers to switch modes effortlessly. This seamless integration between gear and steering makes every twist and turn feel precise and exhilarating.
Increased Efficiency And Emissions Reduction
Mercedes-Benz is not just chasing speed—it’s chasing sustainability. The new 8G-DCT gearbox is optimized for combined fuel consumption, offering measurable gains in energy use. By carefully calibrating the gear ratios, engineers have created a gearbox that delivers improved efficiency while cutting down on emissions.
For the eco-conscious driver, this matters. And for Mercedes-Benz Group, it underscores their commitment to building a cleaner, smarter, and greener future.
Technical Advancements In The 8G-DCT
This gearbox isn’t just good—it’s groundbreaking. Engineered with input from Star Assembly, another Star Transmission subsidiary, the 8G-DCT incorporates cutting-edge components like high-friction clutch plates and thermally efficient casings. Its design complements both traditional combustion engines and new-generation electric motors, making it ideal for the Mercedes-Benz EQ series.
A standout feature? The 1st gear is optimized for quick getaways, while the top gear ensures quiet, efficient cruising. These refinements don’t just enhance performance—they transform it.
Smoother Gear Shifts
Remember the jerkiness of old-school gearboxes? That’s history. The 8G-DCT ensures smoother gear shifts that are almost imperceptible. Whether accelerating from a standstill or changing lanes at speed, the transition is buttery smooth. The use of dual clutches also means faster response times—no lag, no fuss.
This matters especially when merging onto highways or navigating tight urban streets. It’s these little touches that elevate the driving experience.
Integration With Advanced Vehicle Systems
The new gearbox is smart by design. Integrated directly with in-car systems like the centre console display, the 8G-DCT communicates seamlessly with the vehicle’s brain. Paired with features like the internet device for remote diagnostics, this transmission stays ahead of potential issues, ensuring long-term reliability.
It also interfaces directly with rear axle sensors and suspension modules, adapting shift behavior based on terrain and load. Now that’s smart driving.
Use Of Lightweight And Durable Materials
Weight is the enemy of performance and efficiency. That’s why this automatic transmission uses lightweight and durable materials like high-strength aluminum alloys and carbon-reinforced plastics. It keeps the gearbox light but strong—perfect for delivering maximum torque without compromising durability.
This material choice also contributes to a lower vehicle weight, which in turn improves fuel efficiency and reduces wear and tear.
Strategic Implications For Mercedes-Benz
With the launch of the 8G-DCT, Mercedes-Benz isn’t just releasing a new product—it’s sending a message. This gearbox reflects the brand’s broader strategy of blending innovation with sustainability and luxury. It positions Mercedes to stay ahead in the highly competitive transmission portfolio space.
At the heart of it all is Star Transmission headquarters, where vision meets execution. This facility exemplifies what it means to be part of a next-gen production network.
Commitment To Sustainability
From eco-friendly materials to energy-efficient production methods, Mercedes-Benz is all-in on sustainability. The 8G-DCT isn’t just efficient on the road—it’s clean from the start. The Star Assembly subsidiary employs green manufacturing techniques and follows strict emissions controls.
It’s this holistic view—from materials to assembly—that supports the company’s global sustainability mission.
Enhancing High-Performance Capability
Don’t think efficiency means boring. The 8G-DCT also delivers high-performance chops, especially in models like the new Mercedes-AMG GLA. Paired with a responsive engine, this gearbox supports aggressive driving without skipping a beat.
You get quicker launches, confident overtaking, and a ride that adapts to your mood. This isn’t just about commuting—it’s about enjoying the drive.
Aligning With Global Automotive Trends
Electric vehicles, automation, and smart systems are shaping the car industry. With the new 8G DCT gearbox, Mercedes-Benz is in sync with these global automotive trends. This transmission is EV-ready, hybrid-compatible, and future-proofed.
Expect it to play a key role in upcoming Mercedes-Benz EQ models, especially those targeting urban drivers and tech-savvy millennials.
Manufacturing The 8G-DCT
The state-of-the-art production facilities at Star Transmission are nothing short of impressive. With laser-guided assembly lines, automated torque testing stations, and AI-driven logistics, this is where modern craftsmanship meets precision engineering.
It’s all about precision engineering practices—each gear, clutch, and casing is built to tolerances of mere microns. That’s how Mercedes ensures reliability in every unit.
Quality Assurance And Testing
Before any gearbox reaches a vehicle, it undergoes rigorous quality assurance and testing. Stress simulations, heat resistance checks, and fluid dynamics evaluations are part of the process. Every component, from the smallest gear to the full assembly, is tested for real-world conditions.
This guarantees that whether you’re in the city or the Alps, your automatic gearbox won’t let you down.
Impact On The Automotive Market
This launch isn’t just exciting for Mercedes—it’s changing the game. With such a forward-thinking transmission, the company gains a competitive advantage in transmission technology. It’s setting new standards that may soon influence global automotive standards.
Other manufacturers may need to play catch-up as Mercedes raises the bar for what a double clutch transmission can do.
Expected Market Reception And Demand
Early buzz from industry insiders, including previews at events like the Paris Motor Show, suggests that demand for the 8G-DCT will be strong. Cars news outlets are already praising the system’s versatility and refinement.
Buyers looking at models like the new B-Class, new Mercedes-AMG GLA, and other compact models will see this gearbox as a major selling point.
Future Prospects Of The 8G-DCT
Looking ahead, expect the 8G-DCT to become a staple across a wider range of new Mercedes-Benz vehicles. As the company continues to evolve its production network, we might also see upgrades like AI-assisted shifting, enhanced software integration, and even smarter fuel mapping.
This gearbox could also influence how future cars manage energy, torque, and flexibility between combustion and electric modes. In short, it’s just getting started.
Final Thoughts
The Mercedes-Benz Group has done more than launch a new gearbox—they’ve redefined how we think about transmissions in the electric era. The 8G-DCT is smart, efficient, and performance-ready. It reflects the brand’s commitment to luxury, innovation, and sustainability.
From the Star Transmission headquarters to your vehicle’s centre console, every inch of this automatic transmission tells a story of progress. Whether you’re cruising in a compact SUV, exploring tech in a Mercedes-Benz EQ, or chasing thrills in an AMG model, this gearbox is here to transform the ride.
And honestly? It does. Now that’s what we call a gear shift in the right direction.
FAQs
- What Improvements Does The New Mercedes 8G‑DCT Offer?
Improvements include an extra gear (8th), lighter weight (3.6 kg less than 7G‑DCT), and a compact design that keeps engine RPM low at cruising speeds, boosting efficiency and quietness. - How Much Torque Can The 8G‑DCT Handle?
Torque capacity peaks at 520 Nm, making it suitable for powerful compact models like the A‑Class, B‑Class, CLA, GLA, and GLB. - In Which Models Is The 8G‑DCT Installed?
Installation spans all Mercedes compact models since 2019, including A-Class (W177), B-Class (W247), CLA, GLA, and GLB. - What Gearbox Code Is Used For Mercedes 8G‑DCT?
Code 724.1 refers to the dry‑sump version of the 8G‑DCT, while 724.0 and 724.115 relate to earlier variants and service intervals. - How Is The 8G‑DCT Lubricated?
Lubrication uses a dry‑sump system with low‑viscosity oil and a smaller mechanical pump, reducing friction and drag . - How Smooth And Responsive Is The Shift Performance?
Shift quality is refined by integrated “potted” electronics and small magnets that trigger faster actuation, delivering swift and seamless gear changes. - What Maintenance Schedule Does The 8G‑DCT Follow?
Maintenance calls for an oil and filter change roughly every 60,000–77,000 miles (or 4‑5 years), depending on gearbox version and regional guidelines. - What Common Issues Come With The 8G‑DCT Gearbox?
Issues tend to show in slow‑moving traffic or hill starts, especially with early software—many were resolved via firmware updates. - How Long Is The Typical Lifespan Of The 8G‑DCT?
Lifespan expectations are around 300,000 km, provided regular fluid and filter servicing is followed. - Can The 8G‑DCT Support Plug‑In Hybrid Setups?
Support is built-in: modular design allows integration of an electric motor and disconnect clutch for smooth hybrid operation in future compact PHEVs.