DESIREE said:Are you sure your display doesn't go more like D, then
4, then 3, then 2, then 1?
The tranny is completely automatic in D. It won't get up into fifth gear until about 35 MPH on level ground. Going down a hill (based on my MDS indicator LED coming on) I've seen it hit fifth gear below 30 MPH.
With some reservations (to prevent over-revving the engine), it down shifts to wherever you slap it.
If placed in 2, 3, 4 or D at a stop it starts out in first and will upshift automatically to the gear you selected (and then some if you rev too high).
If you drop it into like 3 at 25 MPH and stand on the gas it will shift itself down to first and then, as speed comes up, upshift up to second and third.
Placing it in 1, 2, 3, or 4 does not necessarily mean it stays there. It can drop down a couple of cogs depending on power demand and notch up if revs get to high.
About the only thing "stick" about it is (with some reservation) the downshifting. And you have to wait for it to think about what you just told it to do before it actually does it just in case it thinks you mucked up.
If, at a standstill, you drop it into 1 and stand on the gas, it will upshift itself to second around 5300 RPM to keep from grenading the engine.
IMO, based on having driven standard shift 3, 4, and 5 speeds for 45 years, this tranny is way more "auto" than "stick". It would be more functional and fun if it went where you put it, and stayed there! I haven't driven it in snow yet. Maybe the ESP will help in situations where I'd like to lock it in second (starting out) or third when low torque is called for?
Hi. Thanks for the great explanation. Where is the MDS Indicator LED? Regards, Bob.
