[thstone]

Normal.

On start up, the ECU will occasionally command a little more rpm (like up to 1,000) to ensure a good smooth start. After this initial blip, the RPM's should immediately go to 700-800rpm and be rock solid and smooth. In the summer time, you'll also feel a bit of RPM fluctuation when the air conditioner is on.

It is normal to feel the engine "surge" at very low RPM's and very small throttle openings (forward or reverse does not make any difference). This will definitely happen when letting out the clutch with no additional throttle or when starting out on a hill when the RPM's are low.