Interesting article in this weeks Autocar concerning DPF regeneration and the DSG gearbox.

VAG are quoted as saying that the dual-clutch gearbox brain is programmed to occasionally hold onto gears longer than may seem usual in order to create the temperatures needed for DPF regeneration. They will do this as often as every 200-400 miles.

The article writer says that this preprogrammed preventative maintenance seems at odds with the fuel-saving gearchange advice you get on a modern manual diesel's dashboard display which encourages early upshifts.

The question is then asked, is there a lower incidence of DPF issues in cars fitted with clever dual-clutch gearboxes than there is with manuals.

I must admit I haven't noticed the gearbox hanging on to gears longer than normal. Also I've never noticed any sign of a DPF regeneration in 9000 miles of mixed driving, let alone every 200-400 miles.

I believe the VAG engines are scheduled to a do a regen every 200-600 miles anyway, you might just not notice it!

With the fans going like crazy for ages I think you might.