is driving smg smiliar to auto trans with paddles?
 

I understand that auto trans with paddles downshifts for you but does smg do this as well? any noticable differences between the two? thanks.

Two different things SMG is sequential MANUAL gearbox with paddle shifters, auto is auto.

No.

Yes, SMG can shift up and down for you, if you put it in auto mode. In manual mode it holds a gear until you shift, and the electronics protect you from shifting when such a shift could cause damage (ie downshifting at 6000 rpm).

All that aside, driving an SMG is not really like driving a conventional automatic, even if that auto is a steptronic, or has paddles. The transmission accomplishes the same thing, but in a very different way. An automatic has a torque converter, and the shifts are very smooth. An SMG can be that smooth, but only if you pay attention to shift points and throttle. It is a manual transmission, with a clutch, but the clutch is electrohydraulically actuated.

Hope all that helps.

lets just say that it's not a slushbox.
much faster response, if it had less bugs, the AUTO would be completely obsolete.

No. An auto is an auto. SMG is a a manual that works the clutch for you. No torque converter (and resulting drivetrain loss), but probably not as smooth as an AT for daily use.

No it doesn't downshift for you? Because it does, in auto mode....

Agree with you that it isn't as smooth (unless the driver is paying attention). Smoothness aside, the functionality is the same.