Does anybody actually use them. I see the point of them and how they are put in the car to keep up with other market comp like the Audi and BMW suv that have them. But unless your on the track or racing does anybody actually use them.

 

I live in NM and travel a lot in CO & AZ. I uses the paddle and/or sport mode+paddles when traveling in the mountains to maintain my speed by holding a gear up the mountain OR engine braking going down hills. I don't like riding the brakes for over an 1/2-1 mile like I see most folks do driving down hills. I don't use the paddles shifters during normal level ground driving because I don't think it provides me with any advantage compared to regular auto mode. Same for my RDX also; mountain driving only. The RDX extra TQ with Hondata+ETS Intercooler and lighter curb weight provides more mid-range punch than my MDX; which, lessens the need for paddles.

I use sport mode more in my 5AT TSX because of the smaller 2.4L I-4 engine and i-Vtec kick-in at around 6000 rpms. Sometimes I need all 205hp and sport-mode is the best way to tap that.

 

I use them too, mostly helpful during a quick overtaking, Lane merges etc. Sometimes I use them just for fun like at traffic lights. Also used it last month when had to climb Mount Washing in NH & where they ask you to climb in first gear.

So yes I find them useful

 

I use them a lot when I want to downshift and accelerate at the same time while entering a fast curve, passing another car or when the gear box is sluggish in 5th or 6th gear on a slight incline.

 

I find the paddles useful when entering corners/jug handles etc. I tend to use the paddles more for downshifting in situations like those. I don't need the upshift paddle much at all since the transmission will shift into Auto mode on its own assuming you have not selected Sport.