Whereafore auto
For over 50 years I have been driving conventionally geared cars I am now 81 and considering moving to a slightly smaller car, an automatic Fiesta in place of my Toyota Auris. I drive about 14,000 miles a year, most of it locally, but with a few longer 300 runs for holidays etc. I note that the Fiesta only has a 4-speed automatic gearbox, whereas the Honda Jazz has a 7-speed CVT and the Skodia Fabia has a 7-speed auto. Can you give me some advice? I strongly prefer the Fiesta but feel the 4-speed may be a disadvantage?
Asked on 23 August 2011 by LF, Crowborough
Answered by
Honest John
The Fiesta has the same 4-speed torque converter auto that it had before, also shared with the Mazda 2 1.5 Activematic, which is livelier. A strong alternative is the good-looking new KIA Rio 1.4 4-speed auto, with a 7-year warranty and £259 3-year service plan.
A Honda Jazz has a CVT-7 and is much improved since February 2011. I don't recommend VAG DSG twin clutch, twin shaft boxes because of the built in hesitation that can leave you stranded for a heartstopping second or two when coming out of a junction. Please try to learn to left foot brake while manoeuvring your automatic in confined spaces. It is the only way to remain in full control and enables you to stop the car in centimetres rather than in metres.
A Honda Jazz has a CVT-7 and is much improved since February 2011. I don't recommend VAG DSG twin clutch, twin shaft boxes because of the built in hesitation that can leave you stranded for a heartstopping second or two when coming out of a junction. Please try to learn to left foot brake while manoeuvring your automatic in confined spaces. It is the only way to remain in full control and enables you to stop the car in centimetres rather than in metres.
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