What Cars Have Shiftable Automatic Transmissions?
Introduction
A shiftable automatic transmission is a type of transmission that allows the driver to manually shift gears, even though the transmission is technically an automatic. This gives the driver more control over the car’s performance, and can be especially useful in situations such as driving in hilly terrain or towing a trailer.
Types of Shiftable Automatic Transmissions
There are two main types of shiftable automatic transmissions:
- Tiptronic transmissions: Tiptronic transmissions are the most common type of shiftable automatic transmission. They use a sequential shift pattern, which means that the driver moves the gear selector up or down to shift gears. Tiptronic transmissions are typically found in luxury cars and sport sedans.
- Dual-clutch transmissions: Dual-clutch transmissions are a newer type of shiftable automatic transmission. They use two clutches, one for odd-numbered gears and one for even-numbered gears. This allows for faster and smoother shifting than Tiptronic transmissions. Dual-clutch transmissions are typically found in high-performance cars and sports cars.
Advantages of Shiftable Automatic Transmissions
There are several advantages to having a shiftable automatic transmission, including:
- Increased control: Shiftable automatic transmissions give the driver more control over the car’s performance. This can be especially useful in situations such as driving in hilly terrain or towing a trailer.
- Improved fuel economy: Shiftable automatic transmissions can help to improve fuel economy by allowing the driver to upshift and downshift at the optimal times.
- Increased performance: Shiftable automatic transmissions can help to improve performance by allowing the driver to keep the car in the optimal gear for acceleration and cornering.
Disadvantages of Shiftable Automatic Transmissions
There are also some disadvantages to having a shiftable automatic transmission, including:
- Increased complexity: Shiftable automatic transmissions are more complex than traditional automatic transmissions. This can make them more expensive to repair and maintain.
- Learning curve: Shiftable automatic transmissions can take some time to learn how to use. This can be especially frustrating for drivers who are used to driving traditional automatic transmissions.
Which Cars Have Shiftable Automatic Transmissions?
There are a wide variety of cars that have shiftable automatic transmissions. Some of the most popular models include:
- Audi A4
- BMW 3 Series
- Cadillac CTS
- Chevrolet Corvette
- Dodge Charger
- Ford Mustang
- Honda Civic Si
- Hyundai Genesis
- Kia Stinger
- Mazda MX-5 Miata
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class
- Nissan 370Z
- Subaru WRX
- Toyota Camry
- Volkswagen Jetta
Conclusion
Shiftable automatic transmissions offer a number of advantages over traditional automatic transmissions. They give the driver more control over the car’s performance, can help to improve fuel economy, and can increase performance. However, shiftable automatic transmissions are also more complex and can take some time to learn how to use. If you are considering buying a car with a shiftable automatic transmission, be sure to do your research and make sure that you are comfortable with the technology.
