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No ratio Hornblower
I bought a Honda Jazz CVT-7 some time ago on your recommendation. I only use the CVT mode and never change manually. I now want a new car. The Jazz I-Shift is not CVT so I would have to use the paddles. I am not happy using the paddles on my existing Jazz. You have recommended the Nissan Note or Suzuki Splash, both of which use a Torque Converter automatic. What is the difference between the Torque Converter automatic and the I-shift in auto mode on the Jazz? Because I only use the auto mode would I be better with a Torque Converter automatic rather than the Jazz's 6-speed auto? I cannot use a manual car because of a painful bunion.
Asked on 1 August 2009 by
Answered by
Honest John
The I-shift is not an automatic. It is an electronically controlled
automated manual in which electronics determine the gearshifts and an electric motor dips the clutch. The electronics try to protect the gearbox from severe torque reactions, so cushion the changes, especially from 1st to 2nd, and drivers unprepared for this can experience a lurching effect. You can quickly learn to drive in a lurch free manner, but the I-Shift is not a press and go auto. Honda UK is aware of the problem and would like to use the less fuel efficient 5-speed torque converter auto it offers in other markets and which I tested in Thailand in the Honda City last December. It is possible that this will eventually feed through Honda hierarchy and the proper auto will become available in the UK, as it now is in the Civic. The Nissan Note and Suzuki Splash both use a conventional torque converter 4-speed auto, which is 'press and go'.
automated manual in which electronics determine the gearshifts and an electric motor dips the clutch. The electronics try to protect the gearbox from severe torque reactions, so cushion the changes, especially from 1st to 2nd, and drivers unprepared for this can experience a lurching effect. You can quickly learn to drive in a lurch free manner, but the I-Shift is not a press and go auto. Honda UK is aware of the problem and would like to use the less fuel efficient 5-speed torque converter auto it offers in other markets and which I tested in Thailand in the Honda City last December. It is possible that this will eventually feed through Honda hierarchy and the proper auto will become available in the UK, as it now is in the Civic. The Nissan Note and Suzuki Splash both use a conventional torque converter 4-speed auto, which is 'press and go'.
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Dear Honest John,
Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:
Please help me choose my next car. I would like it to have:
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