has anyone been using S-mode while driving the automatic?

i was trying it out today while driving around and it almost feels like i am driving a stick shift again - it works really well and really utilizes the engines power. feels pretty quick too when using it - i like it!!

 

I have and do enjoy to use it sometimes. The only thing I hate it if I want to switch into say 3rd gear a low speed for slow acceleration, it will wait until it hits a certain point to shift it.

It's very "protective" of itself, which is good I guess, just takes some of the fun away.

However, but more power it rules. It let's you rev up those gears high without any issue! That is a blast!

 

yeah, now if you had a real stick shift, it would be even more fun.

 

someone will have to race an auto vs. stick at a race track - i bet it would be pretty close either way!

 

Hmmm I dunno about that... I test drove both auto & manual and the manual feels much quicker than the auto. The auto (even with the s-mode) was quite disappointing to me and the reason I got the 5-speed......Well also so the g/f couldn't drive it

 

MT cars do tend to 'feel' quicker than AT cars but the reality is usually only about 1/10 of a second quicker 0-60 and 1/4 mile. If the XB had a 5 spd AT it would probably be just as quick as the 5 spd MT.

I use the seq shift all the time. I love to shift but hate having to use the clutch all the time. I want a semi-auto tranny like the Tiptronic with F1 style paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

 

scionfred, That would be WAY COOOOOL dadio!!

 

Although unlikely, it is not out of the question for the 09. The Rumion has paddle shifters available.

 

man if the 09's get paddles imma kill somebody!

been waiting for them to option it on, figuring I'd have to do it myself

 

I bet a lot of the cool stuff from the Rumion will makes its way to the xB. I was ____ed when I saw the sunroof. Also the flip up rear seat and the rear seat arm rest are cool.

 

bumpin'

 

I wish it worked like the transmission of a BMW where it auto-downshifts when you come to a stop...

 

I use the S mode especially when I tow my atv and trailer. I like using it to slow down a little and assist in braking.