...not downshift to the lowest gear at certain speeds in D5; however, when in SS you can downshift to the lowest gear at the same speed. For instance, at 60 MPH, the tranny downshifts only to 3rd gear when you floor it in D5, but in SS at 60 MPH, you can select 2nd gear and be in the sweet spot of VTEC. Do any of you guys notice this too?

 

Because D5 mode is generally meant for cruising and not acceleration.

Pop it into SS and downshift!

 

I believe it's so the shift isn't harsh. I'd prefer that they make it a little more aggressive as well. 3rd gear is good for 115 MPH yet mine won't downshift to third (without forcing the issue via SS) if you're going over 80.

 

this is a stab in the dark..but im thinking that is the whole purpose of SS. since regular automatics dont normally do what we want them to do... they created the SS for loonies like you..well and like me too that try to downshift to the lowest gear when haulling ass, just to feel the vtec. well. that is my guess.