superswiss

That's not quite correct. The R8 and RS models only upshift automatically while the engine is cold. For example the R8 and RS5 upshift at 6000 rpm while cold (actual redline on both is over 8000 rpm). Once the engine has reached operating temperature, there is no more automatic upshift in manual mode, regardless of whether you are in comfort, auto or dynamic mode.

Similarly, they only auto downshift for two reasons. Reason one is to avoid stalling the engine. Reason two is if you trigger the physical kickdown switch at the end of the throttle pedal. There's some resistance to triggering the switch, so you don't really accidentally trigger it unless you have elephant feet. Different manufacturers use different approaches on their high performance models for quickly downshifting multiple gears for best acceleration. Audi uses the kickdown switch and in a BMW M you have to pull both paddles simultaneously. I don't know what Ferrari, Porsche etc. use, but it's probably something similar.

S models such as the TTS are not high performance models. They are sportier versions of the mainstream models, hence their performance features are a bit watered down. The S models compete with BMW's M Sport models, which can't even be had with a dual clutch transmission and the AMG light models from Benz, which also use a regular torque converter automatic.

If you want a more kickass dual clutch you've got to step up to an RS, M, proper AMG, Porsche or similar, or get an aftermarket tune to get some of the programming that the more performance oriented models get.

adg44

Sorry, that's not correct for the current R8 and RS 3 and TT RS. They will auto upshift in manual mode at redline if the transmission is not also in sport mode. I guarantee it.

When you are in manual sport mode, you will also see the tach turn into a shift light. It does not do this if you are just in manual mode and not sport. This is so you have a visual cue as to when to shift since it will not do it for you at redline.

superswiss

That's new then. I have to take your word for it as I haven't had a chance to sample any of the current R/RS models. Looks like the watering down is spreading to the high performance models. I suppose it's most important for the transmission to stay out of the driver's hair in sport mode, but not sure how I feel about the addition of auto upshift in comfort/auto. A big reason for why I went with the RS5 vs the S5 is the transmission programming. Not just the auto upshift stuff, but also the more raw and responsive behavior vs the S models.

farmerjones

So why does my 2016 TT in manual mode not upshift at redline? It will just bang against the rev limiter all day long....sounds like there is different software versions floating around out there.... My friends 2015 S3 will also not upshift but just sit at redline in manual mode as well.

adg44

Can you provide more detail? What gear are you in? 1-2 or 2-3, etc. Is drive select in dynamic mode? TT or TTS? Have you activated manual mode via the paddles or by physically moving the shifter to manual mode?

Kate Johnston

This is my first car with an automatic transmission. S tronic is NOT the same and does not provide the same level of control that a manual does IMO. I think having a sports car in automatic is an abomination. It's not the same, not even close.

BRING THE MANUAL TO THE USA and I'll trade in my current one for it immediately.