8 speed auto or manual?

[spaceman2844]

Originally Posted by MtillingVolvo

I have a customer who has just taken delivery of a D4 2WD (181BHP) with the new gearbox and is reporting early 50MPG to me... not bad considering its only done about 200 miles.... he does about 30,000 miles a year so will try and see how he is getting on in a few weeks.

Good to hear that the new D4s are starting to arrive in the UK. I'm eagerly awaiting delivery of mine in the next few weeks. Do the SE and SE Lux models with the D4 FWD have the twin intergrated exhausts now? I know that the MY14s didn't, but the brochure suggests that the new exhausts are on the MY14.5 D4 FWDs.

[MtillingVolvo]

I think its only the SE Lux's that have the integrated exhausts on all engines... although stand to be corrected!

[ChrisL]

The brochure certainly suggests so! The 13 plate I currently have on test does not have them integrated.

I do hope the 14.5 does as they look a lot better

[Arianne]

Originally Posted by MtillingVolvo

I think its only the SE Lux's that have the integrated exhausts on all engines... although stand to be corrected!

Any feedback on the performance and experience of the new VEA engine, other than early fuel stats?

[MtillingVolvo]

Customer feedback so far is very positive, especially with regards to the new 8 speed gearbox. The engine itself (having had a go in one myself too) is very quiet although lacks some of the character of the 5cyl engines of "old"....

There should be some around to get a go in with various dealers in the country now having the new D4 engine available on stock vehicles. My advice would be to go and try one as I'm sure you'll be impressed. Pretty much all my current order book are going for this engine

[Crockers]

When is the AWD version coming online ?? Seems strange to launch a "SUV" in FWD only ???

[wimorrison]

Originally Posted by Crockers

When is the AWD version coming online ?? Seems strange to launch a "SUV" in FWD only ???

I was told that will not be until late this year, possibly even 2015 and that influenced my decision to buy the d5 now as the discounts being offered were so good (at that time) - possibly sales bull but possibly not.

On the other I am not sure a FWD really classifies as an SUV

[m2srt]

Originally Posted by taylorc

I personally hate driving a manual now, I find the whole process tiring! My first experience of an auto was a DSG box (more automated manual than true auto) in my Audi S3 which was truly amazing, I'm now driving a MY13 XC60 D5 geartronic and it is so smooth and relaxing.
If I had a choice I would take a dual clutch system anytime but failing that it has to be auto, my left foot aches now every time I drive a manual!

Having owned a mk6 Golf Gti DSG, I feel that the Geartronic is like going back in time 20 years! Pulling out of junctions is best done in sport mode and whilst I love my XC60, I feel the Geartronic 'box is the weakest link in the chain.

[taylorc]

Originally Posted by m2srt

Having owned a mk6 Golf Gti DSG, I feel that the Geartronic is like going back in time 20 years! Pulling out of junctions is best done in sport mode and whilst I love my XC60, I feel the Geartronic 'box is the weakest link in the chain.

I'm surprised that you feel that way to be honest, whilst I agree a DSG box is far superior to a traditional auto I find the geartronic to be very good. The only time I ever use sport mode is for overtaking, for everything else... normal mode is more than capable (for me).
Don't get me wrong though, if I had a choice it would be DSG everytime!

[AngloScot]

Originally Posted by m2srt

Having owned a mk6 Golf Gti DSG, I feel that the Geartronic is like going back in time 20 years! Pulling out of junctions is best done in sport mode and whilst I love my XC60, I feel the Geartronic 'box is the weakest link in the chain.

I'm guessing you have the 6speed one. I wonder if the 8speed is better. We are patiently waiting on a review of the 8speed.