what are some scenarios where you would need to downshift (other than the obvious speed reduction)
if you're cruising along in 5th doing, let's say 60 and you want to overtake someone on the highway, i notice in Auto mode, there's some "delay" in throttle press to actual "get up and go". Would downshifting to 4th in manual mode be a better option for a quicker burst of acceleration?[/QUOTE]
You are correct....when in auto mode ..a quick toggle and downshift to 4th will bring you into "manual mode" for a short period, is going to be much more fun and you avoid the lag that occurs in "auto" However, the car will return you to "auto" mode in short order...so if you are going to drive in a more sporty fashion for a longer duration, hard shift into "manual" as tony says and enjoy the wider rpm band available!
I tend to downshift (when in auto) both when playing on the highway and again when coming to an intersection, etc (save some braking) ... or will shift to "manual" depending on the length of the skirt when going through town...lol
