Automatic, picks the right gears for hard drivign?
 

I know in manual mode it won't let you shift down at the right times sometimes, I was wondering if anyone happens to know if this was also the case when not in manual mode?
Tks

the automatics programming is specifically designed to maximize fuel mileage during the EPA driving cycle test.

that is what it does at any and every point in the vehicles speed, and rpm range. there is nothing performance oriented about it.

but if it's not letting you downshift in manual mode when you want it, you're likely asking for a shift that is outside the next lower gears max rev. in manual terms, they just call that a money-shift, and it all but guarantees a new motor being needed.

Yes.

Makes it more difficult to do silly things.

Use with care. Doesn't make it impossible.