Semi Automatics (tip tronic, step tronic, Multi Mode)

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Semi Automatics (tip tronic, step tronic, Multi Mode)

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WOW. I've just got back from test driving two new cars, Renault Twingo and the new Toyota Yaris. I've been driving an auto since Sept so decided to try the Yaris with Toytoa's Multi Mode Auto gearbox.

It was great, switching from auto to clutchless manual. Has anyone got one of these gearboxes fitted to any cars of theirs? What are they like to use everyday? and are they likely to be reliable. I'm now torn between my CVT auto Panda, or a new Multi Mode Yaris!
 
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well selespeed was the biggest problem to hit alfa for a very long time, and still is. dual logic is proving to be a headache on fiats. i know BMW have a similar system that actually works.

lets be honest if you buy a twingo you dont really expect it to work.

on a yaris i'm sure it will be trouble free.
 
Even VAG's DSG gear box is not without issues even though its a £2500 option on the TT!!.

Simple answer is no there not as reliable as a manual due to the extra electrics and computer(s) involved.

Fair enough, but im mainly trying to compare this method to the normal type of fully automatics you can get.
 
the main difference in my mind is the user's control. on a manual a human can easily decide which gear is most suitable and how much clutch engagaement is required, a computer can not, thats the main problem from a user's perspective. so far i havent seen any system where the strategy used gives smooth controlled behaviour in heavy stop/start traffic. killing it in a straight line is fine, but thats not good enough. traditional automatics dont have that problem because it is a far simpler setup.
 
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I was driving the semi auto thingy alfa 156 recently and its a pain in the face to drive. the reaction is too slow to gear changes and would be a lot easier to use if it was instant. its just a manual box with solnoids to change the gears for you really., added to that the indicator on the dash that tells you what gear your in is known to have backlight issues to make things more confusing.,
they wouldnt be my cup of tea.,
 
i like CVT autos.

i also like my mothers dual logic panda, perfect for launching and very quick changes.

Yes, the fiat equivilent of Toyota's Mutil Mode is the Dual Logic, so you think its good then?

I must admit that the Yaris did seem a bit slow on the changes, but other than that was great!
 
i also like my mothers dual logic panda, perfect for launching and very quick changes.
but also slower than a manual panda with the same engine.

unless you have a license that only allows you to drive an auto i cant think of a good reason to buy one.
 
but also slower than a manual panda with the same engine.

unless you have a license that only allows you to drive an auto i cant think of a good reason to buy one.

Its called lazyitus! The 1.3 Yaris wasn't slow though, although not much faster on acceleration than my CVT 1.1 Panda, but wass comfortable!
 
but also slower than a manual panda with the same engine.

unless you have a license that only allows you to drive an auto i cant think of a good reason to buy one.

depends on the drivers ability to change gear, launch etc. TBH if i bought a panda, and i didn't get the MJ, i'd seriously consider the dual logic.

the only thing is it seems to over rev a bit out of first, 2nd. i manual change until the engine is warm.

EDIT: do they do a diesel dual logic?
 
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depends on the drivers ability to change gear, launch etc. TBH if i bought a panda, and i didn't get the MJ, i'd seriously consider the dual logic.

the only thing is it seems to over rev a bit out of first, 2nd. i manual change until the engine is warm.

EDIT: do they do a diesel dual logic?

I don't know, I know Toyota do the Yaris in a Diesel Multi Mode.
 
The title of this thread is a lot more exciting whenever it's first glanced at. i like semi automatics but i prefer revolvers, look better lol.:Offtopic:
i'd personally steer well clear of semi automatic cars. they are pretty pointless really. a fully automatic should be able to work out what gear it needs to be in for what you are demanding with your right foot. if you want to choose what gear to be in then there is little point in adding to the complexity so choose a manual!!
 
The title of this thread is a lot more exciting whenever it's first glanced at. i like semi automatics but i prefer revolvers, look better lol.:Offtopic:
i'd personally steer well clear of semi automatic cars. they are pretty pointless really. a fully automatic should be able to work out what gear it needs to be in for what you are demanding with your right foot. if you want to choose what gear to be in then there is little point in adding to the complexity so choose a manual!!

I see what your saying, but alot of manuractures are only offering these and not fully autos because they're more economical and allow them to keep within the emissions thing for the eu.
 
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