This has come up in a few places, but I thought it deserved a thread of its own. I came to my 190 DSG from a 140 manual SII. The old car was fantastic, but significantly different from its successor. And the assist systems on the new one have led me subconsciously to subtly change the way I drive. Have others found the same? Examples:

1. ACC and braking - I love my ACC, but find it can be later and more aggressive than I am when braking from motorway speed to zero. So when scanning ahead, if I see brake lights go on and a traffic jam ahead I will dab the brake to disconnect ACC, then let engine braking or gentle manual braking take it down to (say) 40mph before re-engaging ACC. The ACC braking from that speed is much less aggressive.

2. ACC distance from the car in front - on the motorway, if set to a "medium" distance, there is a tendency for cars to dive in front of me, causing my car to slow again. It can give the feeling of "going backwards". So I set it to a closer distance on the motorway, then move it to a medium setting for A-roads.

3. ACC at low speeds - we have a nightmare arrangement of 20mph zones around us and I've found the ACC helpful in keeping to the limit. It does need watching like a hawk though as it will obviously take you through red lights if there is no traffic ahead.

4. Sensors - I tend to ignore them now in many situations as the side sensors are far too sensitive and give false warnings that can mask more serious front/rear sensor warnings. It's the only thing I don't like about the car.

5. Sport mode - I automatically flick the DSG lever into sport when approaching roundabouts / T junctions when it is busy to allow a quick getaway.

6. Electronic Parking Brake - not one I've done personally, but some drivers start to use the conventional handbrake ratchet when slowing, so that it bites as the car comes to a halt (my dad used to do it). It's really not a good idea on the on/off electronic parking brake on the Superb. 

 

Is it just me? Are there any others people are aware of?

^^^?

If you did not before have you started using Disabled Parking Places or Parent / Child places to park?

Good thread.

 

1. ACC and braking - I have started to gradually reduce the set speed down 5mph at a time if approaching a traffic queue. That seems to give a happy medium between more aggressive braking (e.g. if set speed is reduced by 10mph) and gentle braking.

 

2. ACC distance from the car in front - I agree, seems “bad” to set to minimum but reality is it works better like that.

I moved to the Superb from an Alfa Romeo Brera, a much shorter car. Simply put, I drive much more sedately than I did before. I got into two minor scrapes (literally) before I learned to manage the length of the vehicle. After 18 months, I'm quite confident moving it around now, but still take my time doing it.

 

Stop/Start was a learning curve. I like it for environmental reasons. I've learned to finesse the brake so it doesn't kick in unless I want it to.

 

I love the ACC, but tend to use it more in the 50 mph construction zones or in very light motorway traffic. In dense, high speed traffic, I drive the car myself as I can anticipate a lot better than the ACC. And, as mentioned, it's easier to hold my place in the queue.

 

DCC: generally speaking, Comfort on the motorway, Normal around town, Sport on a twisty country lane.

 

Sat/Nav: I used to use the three option mode, but now just leave it on fastest route. The scenic mode was taking me places I didn't even like to go on my motorcycle, much less a huge motor like this.

 

I could never understand why you would use the hand/parking/emergency brake for anything other than after a full stop. The closest I've gotten to a handbrake turn was on a television screen.

 

DSG: I will never go back to a manual transmission. I have occasionally pushed it over into manual in hilly, curvy terrain, but mostly just snick the lever into and out of Sport mode for decreasing my speed, passing or roundabouts. 

 

I have moved my DTUK Pedal Box up to City+3. I love it. Required option, as far as I'm concerned. 

 

I fit the Superb stereotype: an older buyer looking for luxury on a budget. This car suits me to the ground. If I could only change the colour to the Velvet Red! 

2 hours ago, BriskodaJeff said:

 

6. Electronic Parking Brake - not one I've done personally, but some drivers start to use the conventional handbrake ratchet when slowing, so that it bites as the car comes to a halt (my dad used to do it). It's really not a good idea on the on/off electronic parking brake on the Superb. 

 

 

 

Don't do this under any circumstance unless you want to experience a full on emergency stop limited only by ABS. I did it once at slow speed and no intention of repeating the heart stopping experience. At higher speeds apparently all 4 wheels are ”emergency braked" i.e. ABS limited only.

I find DSG (after over 20 years of manual boxes) has made me drive in a more relaxed and less aggressive style.  I do use sport mode/manual a bit mainly for getting the power down in trickier situations but like freelunch says above, I wouldn't go back to manual.

1 hour ago, Superb170 said:

I find DSG (after over 20 years of manual boxes) has made me drive in a more relaxed and less aggressive style.  I do use sport mode/manual a bit mainly for getting the power down in trickier situations but like freelunch says above, I wouldn't go back to manual.

 

You should try a 'proper' automatic then, in most cases they are even more relaxing than the sometimes clunky DSG. Modern ones shift just as quickly too, a world away from the slushy 3- and 4-speeds of yore. The ZF 6HP and 8HP boxes as fitted to many cars in the past 10 years or so are simply brilliant, Mercedes-Benz 7- and 9-speed are good too.

10 minutes ago, juux said:

 

You should try a 'proper' automatic then, in most cases they are even more relaxing than the sometimes clunky DSG. Modern ones shift just as quickly too, a world away from the slushy 3- and 4-speeds of yore. The ZF 6HP and 8HP boxes as fitted to many cars in the past 10 years or so are simply brilliant, Mercedes-Benz 7- and 9-speed are good too.

Yes, I agree and I like the ZF boxes in particular.  DSG can a bit jumpy around town.  Ideally, you shouldn’t have to manually intervene with an auto.

Approaching my three score years and ten I find that my 280 has led me into wicked ways. It is definetely the Superb's fault and I am totally innocent. Often when I am stationary at Traffic lights and some lesser car pulls up beside me I am forced to select "sport" and put my foot down to leave the other driver astonished by the oomph of my "family" car. Next time I visit the dealer I am going to enquire if this particular feature can be programmed out of the Car!!!!!!

 

ACC:  I have driven cars with cruise for over 20 years with no problem but struggle to trust it.  Hence I try to dial it out as much as possible by having it set at the closest distance, thus giving me as much independent control over the cruise as is possible. 

 

I am am accustomed to the handbrake and find the Hill Hold very useful.

 

i don’t have the side sensors so have no problem with them.  They are useful and the reversing camera is a huge bonus.

 

i prefer a manual gearbox for towing and it has the bonus of seeming to overcome some of the idiosyncrasies of the dsg.  It is an excellent gearchange.

 

I believe you always change the way you drive when you change a car.  Under most circumstances there is a need to adjust to the idiosyncrasies of a vehicle.  My driving style in the Skoda is calmer and smoother in the Skoda compared to my previous Mazda 6 and an absolute mile apart from my beautiful little 21 year old MX 5, which is simply a total joy to drive.  The Skoda is sound but in reality no more than a very comfortable, and so far, reliable conveyance with lots of extras but little character or involvement.  A pedal box might sharpen it up a bit but for day to day needs it is fine.  No complaints.

 

My driving style has changed massively!  I came out of a Fiesta ST and into a DSG TDI Sportline. I have relaxed, chilled out slowed down. I’m still getting used to the DSG box and trying desperately to love it and not be frustrated with its failings. All in all, I’m glad I have made the move and so is the missus when she is in the pax seat 

No significant changes but then I have been driving auto cars with cruise control for many years.

I find the DSG smooth enough at speed but a PIA for slow speed manoeuvring. Thus I have had to modify that aspect and use my left foot on the brake whilst shunting back and forth.

I also find the all round sensors more a hindrance than help.

The auto park feature is too slow to use anywhere except quiet places with low traffic. It confuses following cars as it takes you beyond the parking space. So I haven't changed my dreadful parallel parking skills   

It is a relaxing, large car with smooth power and great fuel efficiency. Progressive driving is a doddle and relaxed driving is almost too relaxed. 

Mine has changed so I’m going back to a proper auto and BMW again.

 

I have never used the parking brake to slow down.

I like its ability to leave those headlight flashing ******* in its dust! 

4 minutes ago, FelisBengalensis said:

and BMW again

Hopefully one that will not need the recall 

On 09/05/2018 at 15:41, Superb170 said:

Yes, I agree and I like the ZF boxes in particular.  DSG can a bit jumpy around town.  Ideally, you shouldn’t have to manually intervene with an auto.

 

Having driven my old mans XF with the ZF box a fair bit my frustration with the DSG is the lack of control when in the “manual” setting. When the ZF is in its manual mode all it does automatically is change down on slowing to preven stalling. The DSG does what it wants when it wants. It was in sport manual yesterday,  it kicked down when I planted it in 3rd (I put it in 3rd because that’s the gear I wanted), then I put it in 2nd behind a cyclist on a B road waiting for a gap to pass and after 20 seconds it changed back into 3rd un-commanded. It could be so good, but it seems to have been ruined by daft programming, so much so much so that i thought there was something wrong with it at first. 

Different strokes for different folks.

If you want a BMW and their Autos you buy one, and if you want a Automated Manual / DSG then you get one of those.

Good that there are choices and Dealerships have demonstrators so you can try before you buy.

On 5/9/2018 at 10:07, BriskodaJeff said:

1. ACC and braking - I love my ACC, but find it can be later and more aggressive than I am when braking from motorway speed to zero. So when scanning ahead, if I see brake lights go on and a traffic jam ahead I will dab the brake to disconnect ACC, then let engine braking or gentle manual braking take it down to (say) 40mph before re-engaging ACC. The ACC braking from that speed is much less aggressive.

 

Like you, I LOVE ACC, in fact, don't think I will ever go back to "normal" cruise control now.

 

I have switched ACC to Eco mode - it becomes more gentle then - even at higher speeds.  Although since getting the Mk3 I find I'm diving more "eco" in general, using the coast function, and acc more even off the motorway.

 

I have had to override ACC on a couple of occasions for braking, and I don't like it NEVER lets me pass on the inside on the motorway, even when Lane 2/3 are moving slower and I haven't changed lanes.

 

On 5/9/2018 at 10:07, BriskodaJeff said:

2. ACC distance from the car in front - on the motorway, if set to a "medium" distance, there is a tendency for cars to dive in front of me, causing my car to slow again. It can give the feeling of "going backwards". So I set it to a closer distance on the motorway, then move it to a medium setting for A-roads.

 

I have it set at "2 bars" from the closest setting.  I find that a nice compromise from leaving a massive gap cars move into, and a feeling of safety.  However in slower traffic I do extend the distance more for more of a buffer zone.

 

On 5/9/2018 at 10:07, BriskodaJeff said:

3. ACC at low speeds - we have a nightmare arrangement of 20mph zones around us and I've found the ACC helpful in keeping to the limit. It does need watching like a hawk though as it will obviously take you through red lights if there is no traffic ahead.

 

Yep, same... I basically use it on most roads, and obviously if theres lots of traffic lights, it gets disabled temporarily.

 

On 5/9/2018 at 10:07, BriskodaJeff said:

4. Sensors - I tend to ignore them now in many situations as the side sensors are far too sensitive and give false warnings that can mask more serious front/rear sensor warnings. It's the only thing I don't like about the car.

 

Don't have side sensors - the rear parking sensors seem more sensitive than those in the Mk2 Superb.

 

On 5/9/2018 at 10:07, BriskodaJeff said:

5. Sport mode - I automatically flick the DSG lever into sport when approaching roundabouts / T junctions when it is busy to allow a quick getaway.

 

I've just started doing this, but just burying my foot in the carpet, even in Eco mode generally does the trick

 

On 5/9/2018 at 10:07, BriskodaJeff said:

6. Electronic Parking Brake - not one I've done personally, but some drivers start to use the conventional handbrake ratchet when slowing, so that it bites as the car comes to a halt (my dad used to do it). It's really not a good idea on the on/off electronic parking brake on the Superb. 

 

The Superb Mk3 has a handbrake? I wouldn't know... never used it!  It just puts itself on when I turn the car off!  I love that...you just forget about it and it just works.  I'd never do the above anyway, BUT there has been a bloke on Youtube (AutoVlog) and he put his EPB on his Merc C63 AMG when he was doing 70mph and it slows the car with the foot brake until like 5mph then the EPB engages.  Not saying it will work like that in the Superb, but may be potentially useful if a passenger needs to brake the car if the driver had a medical episode.

 

Another one you didn't add... The E-Call stuff (Skoda Assist and Emergency functions)... Am I the only one that isn't tempted to press them...just to try them out? So far I've resisted!

1 hour ago, TheGingerOne said:

 

Having driven my old mans XF with the ZF box a fair bit my frustration with the DSG is the lack of control when in the “manual” setting. When the ZF is in its manual mode all it does automatically is change down on slowing to preven stalling. The DSG does what it wants when it wants. It was in sport manual yesterday,  it kicked down when I planted it in 3rd (I put it in 3rd because that’s the gear I wanted), then I put it in 2nd behind a cyclist on a B road waiting for a gap to pass and after 20 seconds it changed back into 3rd un-commanded. It could be so good, but it seems to have been ruined by daft programming, so much so much so that i thought there was something wrong with it at first. 

 

Were you actually in manual or did you just override the gear with paddles?  If paddle override, it switches back to auto after a few seconds.  If gearbox was pushed over into Manual mode, I would ask your dealer...as our DSG (the 7-speed) does as you describe with the ZF Gearbox.  I forgot to change up from 1st > 2nd the other day and it almost hit the rev-limiter because I forgot I was in Manual mode.

I forgot to mention that I like the rear view camera. I've read that they will be mandatory in new cars from (year?).

 

As hwr1983, my manual stays in gear unless I change up or down manually. I haven't tried using the paddles when I'm in manual. Can you?

 

I agree, that using the paddles in auto will only change the gear for a short time until auto takes over again.

 

I've only ever used the DSG auto. I think it's terrific.

1 hour ago, hwr1983 said:

 

Were you actually in manual or did you just override the gear with paddles?  If paddle override, it switches back to auto after a few seconds.  If gearbox was pushed over into Manual mode, I would ask your dealer...as our DSG (the 7-speed) does as you describe with the ZF Gearbox.  I forgot to change up from 1st > 2nd the other day and it almost hit the rev-limiter because I forgot I was in Manual mode.

I have just run it up the Henley road and I stand corrected. Clearly operator error, thank you for the tip. 

On 5/11/2018 at 09:39, hwr1983 said:

 

 

I have had to override ACC on a couple of occasions for braking, and I don't like it NEVER lets me pass on the inside on the motorway, even when Lane 2/3 are moving slower and I haven't changed lanes.

 

 

 

A little tap on the pedal overrides that.

2 hours ago, zappahey said:

A little tap on the pedal overrides that.

Yep. I put up a thread on here about "undertaking" because I thought mine was broken. It turns out I was being impatient and automatically over-riding it. 

On 5/12/2018 at 17:45, zappahey said:

A little tap on the pedal overrides that.

 

Yeah I know - would be nice if it was a little bit more intelligent though  

On 5/14/2018 at 08:44, hwr1983 said:

 

Yeah I know - would be nice if it was a little bit more intelligent though  

 

I was quite surprised that it was intelligent enough to change sides when I drove in France.

 

I've generally found it to be OK in traffic where the right hand lane is slower and it only really seems to hold back with the middle lane owners club but that might be me unconsciously giving it a tap.