Automatics

Thanks TW. plus all the people that have replied.

Good hunting!

You'd need to enquire at Vauxhall as to whether the SRi is a torque converter auto or an automated manual ie Easytronic. When doing a hill start in an auto, you're (generally*) setting off in 1st gear whether the box is in auto or manual .... the manual bit only refers to when you're actually driving ie you have some control of when/if the box changes gear.

*some autos have the option of setting off in 2nd or 3rd gear to aid a start in snowy conditions

I believe Opel/Vauxhall currently use a DSG type gearbox however Try the Astra Owners Network forum. Easytronic was an automated manual. 

In respect of using manual control of an automatic, why? And as for DSG reliability my Passat with the 6 speed wet clutch variety had a gearbox service yesterday and at 95,000 passed with flying colours. However as mentioned above, the dry clutch DSG’s are not noted for longevity and best avoided. 

For impartial technical info on choice of cars available with TC or reliable DSG auto boxes search Honest John website. 

 @flatcoat .... In respect of using manual control of an automatic, why?

My little Smart Roadster has flappy paddles and manual control is the way to go if you want to 'press on' on twisty B roads ..... Smart's automated manual isn't the best on these kind of roads when in auto 😉

I have a sort of manual override on my Volvo XC70, I think it's called Sports Mode or somesuch. Anyway I find it handy in hilly country as it delays change-ups. Other than that I don't do much sport these days. 

This question is aimed at all caravan tuggers with an automatic. Do any of you have any regrets? Would any of you consider going back to using a manual gearbox? Any other comments are quite welcome.

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MM, ah yes, to be honest my brain wasn’t thinking flappy paddles even though my ex had a C220 coupe automatic with paddles which I used. 

As for going back to a manual, no I would not! And that is from someone who was a died in the wool advocate of a manual box...... 

As an ex-tugger, no I would not go back to a manual for towing, or for the day to day car  

The irksome thing about our current MH is that it’s manual but better that than a Fiat automated manual in my opinion.