I echo what otherclive has commented above. There is wide variation in the way different makes of dual clutch transmissions work. I have only experienced VAG versions, and I am pretty certain all manufacturers will have worked to improve their models over time.
In my case both were fitted to Passat estates. The first was a 175 Hp diesel, it was always a little slow to engage from stand still, a characteristic you learned to cope with. But it was otherwise always smooth. It is important to ensure the transmission, fluids were changed on time with the correct grades.
The second was a 2017 model GTE
- Petrol Engine: A 1.4-litre TSI engine (154bhp) and (250Nm of torque.
- Electric Motor: An 83kW electric motor that produces 114 bhp and 330\text of torque.
- This combination is silky smooth without transmission delays principally because the car invariably moves off under electric power meaning the transmission can be pre selected whilst stationary.
The other concern with modern engines was the dual mass flywheels. But to what I can only assume has not materialised in practice means the issue has not been anywhere as bad as it was predicted to be..
As time has gone by modern smaller turbo petrol engines have proven to be surprisingly reliable and durable. There turbo's allow the smaller engines to produce very usable torque at lower RPM.
