What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Shifting circumstances

Is it reasonable to assume that a Honda i-shift is similar to the VW DSG system, which I have acquired on a new 1.4 Polo and have not found it easy to get used to, despite having driven a number of automatic cars over the years?

Asked on 9 January 2010 by LC, Forest Row

Answered by Honest John
No. Entirely different. A DSG is a twin clutch, twin shaft preselector transmission. An i-shift is a simpler automated manual transmission. The main problem with a DGS is that its electronics can make it hesitate when you are pulling out of a junction or onto a roundabout. Readers have suggested using the parking brake in such circumstances rather than the footbrake.
Similar questions
After five years with an automatic Honda Jazz, I have switched to the new Jazz (also fully automatic) and I find the transmission quite a disappointment. Whereas my first Jazz was a wonderfully smooth...
There have been several letters in your column complaining about the Honda Jazz i-shift. I have owned two Jazz autos in the past and it was with some trepidation that I tried a test drive in a Jazz i-shift....
My shortlist of new cars is down to three: Mercedes-Benz B-Class, Audi A3 and Volkswagen Golf, all with automatic gearboxes. I am aware of your reviews that rate highly the latter two, but I also see a...
Related models
Clever interior redefined the small car. Most space efficient small car built. Very reliable first 3 - 4 years.
Neatly styled and easy to drive. Room for five. Most come with full size spare. High quality interior. Double folding rear seats give flat load area. Frugal 1.2 TDI BlueMotion.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer