Automatic Cars

Canucklehead

Good morning: We had quite a lively discussion about this very topic in July.. http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=506776&highlight=automatic+cars

HTH

Canucklehead

tomstickland

There is someone on MSE who claims that auto boxes are more efficient than manuals. Or at least the same, but they don't break so often. Not that I agree with them.

Badger_Lady

Inactive wrote:

Indeed, the point I was trying to make, by putting the car in to park with the wheels rotating can be expensive.

But why would you? Surely you don't need lessons to learn "you can't park whilst moving".

Canucklehead

Good morning: How about a bit of both worlds? http://auto.howstuffworks.com/dual-clutch-transmission.htm
Has anyone had driving experience of a dual clutched i.e semi-automatic vehicle in the UK?

Canucklehead

Inactive

Badger_Lady wrote: »

But why would you? Surely you don't need lessons to learn "you can't park whilst moving".

I know that, and you know that, but ask any Auto Gearbox specialist what is the most common reported problem with Auto Boxes?...Answer, people engaging park with the wheels still rolling, apparently easily done, and very expensive.


( Actually to be pedantic, you cannot park if you are not moving )..:rotfl:

I think you meant you shouldn't engage park whilst moving..

daveyjp

Canucklehead wrote: »

Good morning: How about a bit of both worlds? http://auto.howstuffworks.com/dual-clutch-transmission.htm
Has anyone had driving experience of a dual clutched i.e semi-automatic vehicle in the UK?

Canucklehead

Yes I'm on my second DSG gearbox (dual clutch automatic) and it is absolutely brilliant - available on VWs, Seats, Skodas, Audis and a version of it is fitted to the Veyron!

Mine is on an A3 2.0TDi and I find it the best combination for a diesel engine. It's quicker than the manual, fuel economy is virtually the same (in general traditional auto boxes consume more fuel than manual versions of the same car).

Comments about 'stick and Auto in D' and drive are totally wrong. Automatics still need driving and locking up or down the gearbox on steep hills or twisty roads should still be carried out.

If you go down a steep hill in a manual you don't do it in top gear, why would you in an automatic. Use lock up to fix it in 3rd or 2nd gear so you keep control.

I would advise anyone who has never driven an auto to take some proper lessons - they can very easily catch you out as the car begins to drive you.

jackieb

Is that the same as the multitronic gearboxes on the Audi?

daveyjp

No - Multitronic is a CVT system. In my opinion not as good as DSG!

Mobeer

I drive both an automatic and a manual. The automatic is ideal for the lazy person, and a lot nicer in queued traffic. But the manual gives me control over whether I want to cruise around gently or zip around a bit faster, which the automatic cannot do.