Lane said:
Thanks for responding,
But , I know the difference regarding the 'technical' explanation. I'm
looking for the experience of drivers with both the sytems in relation to
the XC70. In the end I've to make up my mind about what I will choose. I
drove with both transmissions already, but I'm curious what it's 'worth' in
the long run, for I'm lacking the experience.
Lane
Greetings:
The choice usually solved by personal preference; here are some observations
if you are unfamiliar with automatics. The Volvo choices are no different
than auto v. manual in any other car. In fact, the Volvo geartronic isn't
much different than any other auto trans; they can all be manually shifted
from 'drive' to lower gears. Auto leaves one hand free for a coffee (or
tea). I have a '03 XC70 with auto. Sometimes I shift to the 'manual' mode
while driving downhill, to allow engine braking while following traffic. I
prefer manual transmission cars, but the price was right on this particular
car. Auto is definitely more convenient in city traffic, since there is no
clutch to continuously press when stopped or frequently changing gears, but
the brakes are used more often. So as far as maintenance costs, perhaps one
or two more brake jobs would offset the eventual cost of replacing a clutch
assembly. If you aren't experienced with automatics, why not rent a car for
a few days? It could be virtually any mid-size vehicle of any make / model.
Drive the car in the typical traffic conditions that you will encounter
daily with your proposed new Volvo. The Volvo automatic, in my experience,
doesn't feel or operate substantially differently from other manufacturers.
Ya pushes the gas and it goes. Ya pushes the brakes and it stops. ":,)
Regards, Jim Brown
