G-Machine question.....

[Steve Chryssos]

Correct. A different driving style is required. Downshifting in turns is done solely to select the proper gear for corner exit--not for engine braking. So you get your braking done to establish entry speed, downshift to select proper exit gear (i.e. 2nd gear), hit the apex, and when you get back in the throttle, you know for sure that the trans is on 2nd gear whereas in auto mode, the computer doesn't know if you are exiting a corner or slowing for a stopped schoolbus. In auto mode, the computer might choose the wrong gear or lag before finding 2nd gear.

Engine braking is there if you want it, but I don't use it. I've learned to rely soley on the vehicle's brakes. The computer in my DSG paddle shifted Audi A3 (a dual clutch manual) does match revs--perfectly, every time. Effective rev-matched heel and toe downshifting is one of those things that everyone brags about, but very few people have mastered. And it's not just skill, proper pedal placement is a big issue.