Se V Sport And/or Manual V Auto

[japthree]

In comparing these options for purely the driving experience (not interested in the visual exterior and interior improvements of the Sport - although I think the metal drilled pedals on the Sport are bit OTT IMHO!) in what ways do the SE and Sport differ - I read that as expected that the Sport is a firmer ride so the SE might be better for you; does the Sport's LSD really make a difference in driving fun/handling/etc (never driven a Sport so wouldn't know)?

Also the auto transmission has been 'criticised' for being only a 4-speed (i.e. sluggish and not very sporty) - do you agree? Something which the IS250 has rectified with the 6-speed auto box and ironically is recommended over the manual! On a positive note the auto box has been praised in reviews in that it is unusual -- you have to shift to the right and down and not just straight down - do you like this!?!? I'm not sure how unusual - I'm sure other auto Toyotas might have a similar style box as well as other manufacturers? (...From a visual experience, incidentally, auto boxes look more modern than a manual?...)

[Parthiban]

In terms of driving experience I think it's the LSD that will make the biggest difference, but not sure how noticeable it is in normal driving conditions as I never drive around with the traction control off to be spinning up the inside wheel............

With regard to the auto, yes as an owner I have to say it's a pretty poor box in terms of performance, it's reasonably smooth though. There's nothing new about the gate though, Mercs have always had the jagged gate and I'm sure others do as well.

I agree that autos generally look nicer than manuals, but not always...........the chrome H gate on a number of sports cars looks awesome, no idea why no car manufacturers have put them in normal cars! :winky: