Shiftronic - What do you prefer?

[Sal Collaziano]

BigElm just mentioned how he doesn't like that the shiftronic automatically shifts at 5500 RPM (in another discussion). That got me thinking and I'll like your opinion.. Here's what he said:

The only thing I didn't like was in Shiftronic mode (or whatever they call it), it has a stupid proof safety, where once it reaches about 5500rpms, the computer will shift gears for you. - Maybe a tuning can fix this to let it reach redline giving you a chance to shift yourself?

I can see why people wouldn't like this - but I actually prefer it.. The Lexus LS430 actually cuts the gas altogether - which was really annoying because then you just bogged down and, if your intention was to go really fast - it wasn't happening.

I do see that some people would prefer to do all the shifting on their own. However, I have a feeling that most people will prefer it to work this way - where it shift automatically to the next gear as it approaches redline. This is the way my Chrysler 300C operates as well.

What's your opinion?

 

[BigElm]

Hey HG,

I just saw this and thought it was ironic that there was a poll, then I read your post, lol!

Anyway, I would prefer to hold until you shift. If it's going to 'act' like a clutchless manual, the least Hyundai could've done was let the driver have some 'performance' engagement with it. IMO, it just defeats the purpose of spirited driving if you have a computer changing gears for you. It's almost as if it's in Sport mode, like the 300C and G8 GT, where it'll hold to higher revs before changing gears. But coming from driving MT for so long, I'm alittle bias since the only thing close to a manual is the Shiftronic.

The salesman commented that he's pretty sure people may accidently hit the AT shift lever and not realize it's in shift mode, which the computer would shift gears though holding to higer RPMs. I was thinking, first.... the driver would be an idiot if they didn't notice the dash display was in shift mode. But I threw an idea of having some kind of release or lock button on the shifter to avoid anyone from accidently hitting it to the right or left, unless they intended on using the shift mode. Maybe an idea for Hyundai to implement, since no one has come out with it.

Hyundai, I'll take 10% royalties on this idea I just threw on your lap!!!!

 

[jwaters943]

I voted none of the above, because I so rarely use it. If the Genesis had paddle shifters on the other hand....

Generally speaking though, I guess I would like it to hold the gear until redline. I don't mind if it automatically shifts at/near redline if it's doing so to prevent excessive wear and tear on the engine.

 

[Jackson]

I vote hold the gear. I'm not sure I know how to actually record a vote, though. Otherwise, I don't see the point of a manual shift option.

 

[gipp]

The lack of paddle shifters on the V8 is a real puzzler as literally every other car on the market with the 6 speed ZF transmission features them.One of the most recent examples of environmentally sound transmission technology is the ZF 6-speed automatic transmission for cars. The integrated mechatronic software analyses the driver's wishes, driving characteristics, and driving situation and derives the optimal response in each case. Weight reductions and excellently coordinated gearshifts reduce fuel consumption five to seven percent with two to five percent better acceleration compared to a 5-speed automatic transmission. In spite of the increased input torque, the additional 6th gear and additional functions, ZF was able to reduce the number of components by 30 percent and the weight by 11 percent. The greater transmission spread and the adaptive shifting strategy makes it possible to have even more efficient engine management at an engine speed that is favorable for fuel consumption. Through the "stand-by control" function, when the car is standing still, the driveline is automatically uncoupled and the engine runs with reduced consumption. The innovative planetary gear set (based on the system by Lepelletier) is at the very center of the ZF 6-speed automatic transmission: three gear sets and six shifting elements were necessary for the previous 5-speed automatic transmission; however, for six gears it is sufficient to have one simple and one Ravigneaux gear set in combination with five shifting elements. Alternately braking and coupling the ring gear, sun gear, and planet spider, results in different reduction ratios. Also, contributions to helping the environment are made by lower internal leakage losses through CE pressure regulators, a lower capacity oil pump, as well as low-viscosity transmission oil that can be used for the entire service life.(from ZF)