[Gardus@Supersprint]

Here in Italy Smartcars and big saloon/estates are the only cars with an automatic.
It began to become popular with the introduction of the DSG by VAG.

I had the chance to test a lot of cars, both as a driver and a passenger and my general opinion is:
Dual clutch systems are as good as the software is.
The VW/Audi systems are VERY good, the same is true for the BMW and the PDK.
Even small cars like the Polo GTI do a very, very good job.
The Mercedes, even if mechanically is the same Graziano unit on other cars, is a bit behind on the software, even the SLS is far from perfect in the downshifts.
The best system, with consideration for the power/torque it has to manage, it the one in the Nissan GTR.

Automated manual can be VERY bad (Alfa Romeo for example) but can also be good in spirited driving (SMG2 and 3 on M3/5) but they're rubbish when manouvering, uphill starts, reversing etc. In general I prefer a manual od a double clutch system.

Pure automatics are usually rubbish in anything but cruising and start/stop traffic.
The last ZF boxes are not so bad, for example the one in the Cooper S is pretty good but still a bit lacking in the downshifts and a bit slow everywhere.

I was very impressed by the syncrorev function of the 370Z, the automatic heel&toe system. It works flawlessy and it's such a clever idea I don't know why other brands don't fit them as standard on their manual cars.


Just a side note: VAG is the most experienced manifacturer for what concerns double clutch systems, they even fitted one to the Veyron. I find it strange and funny that the R8 has an automated manual with the same name (R-tronic..or is it s-tronic?) that other cars in their range use for dc systems. At the same time the R8 is the last car available with a open gate manual gearbox and that adorable CLICK-CLACK sound when shifting, but without the clumsyness of the old Ferraris.
And still most of the customers go for the r-tronic...what a shame.