The car's main weakness, which it shared with the RB3, was the new seamless shift gearbox, which frequently failed during races.

The engines are EURO 4 compliant, except the 1.9 TDi when paired with the DSG (direct shift gearbox).

This arrangement is also sometimes known as a direct shift gearbox or powershift gearbox.

All GS models at launch featured a new six-speed automatic sequential shift gearbox.

For those who do not enjoy rowing their own boat, VW's six-speed direct shift gearbox, with Tiptronic manual control, is $1,075 extra.

The GS 300, GS 350, and GS 430 engine options were paired to a new 6-speed automatic sequential shift gearbox.

The new seven-speed Instantaneous GearChange (ICG) gearbox is Renault's first attempt at a seamless shift gearbox.

The optional six-speed direct shift gearbox is, bar none, the world's slickest automated manual transmission, far swifter and smoother than clutch-free manuals from Ferrari and BMW.

Through all the retirements and bungled pit-stops, Red Bull driver David Coulthard raced to what became a strong fifth position despite losing third gear in the team's new quick shift gearbox.