Automatic sequential transmissions

Hey,

I just wanted to get some inputs about this sequential mode often found in recent automatic transmissions. It's pretty much the same as a standard automatic transmission but when in sequential mode, you get to choose in which gear you want to be. Not to be mixed with mechanical sequential transmission found in most race cars, though.

IMO:
PROS:
Simple
Efficient
Quick shifting
Sporty feeling
Can be switched to automatic

CONS:
Not as much control as a real sequential trans. or manual (no clutch pedal)
You can only upshift or downshift a single gear at once
May override the driver and shift itself

What do you guys think about this type of automatic transmission?  

I think it is actually the worst trans setting out there.  Sport auto transmissions can be very effective in drag racing and regular manual transmissions can be applied in pretty much any auto sport.  The sequential automatic mode is ok for the average driver, but it is not good for serious drivers.  It still acts like an automatic because if you get too high in the RPM range it will override the driver and shift itself.  Basically it just increases the allowed RPM's and gives the driver the option to shift within that increased range, but it is no manual trans.  

actually panda, you are semi correct, but not all sport-tronic transmissions do that. for instance, the mitsubishi sport-tronic allows you to have almost full control of the gear change. the only thing the transmission does for you is down shift at low rpm so you will not bog down the car. in some cars, like the evo, it can shift faster then you can shift a manual. in regular cars or domestics, it sucks.  
-------
the godfather has spoken
R.I.P. GRANDPA PITT AUG 10, 1930 - SEPT 30, 2010

My bad, thanks godfather.  I was going of my buddy's Acura TL-S Sport-tronic.  Guess I should have figured other companies would have a better design.  

ya, thats the same way my friends moms miata is. it will shift its self so that you will not rev out the engine.  
-------
the godfather has spoken
R.I.P. GRANDPA PITT AUG 10, 1930 - SEPT 30, 2010

I feel like a sport-tronic like that would mess with my shifting.  Like if I went to shift up and it shifted up for me right before I hit the switch then I would end up a gear above what I was expecting, which can really screw a run.  

yep.  
-------
the godfather has spoken
R.I.P. GRANDPA PITT AUG 10, 1930 - SEPT 30, 2010