So I test drove a TLX yesterday with the 2.4. Loved the rev-matching on downshifts which were crazy fast and the general smoothness of this new 8-speed transmission. One thing I did not like was the fact that I had to push the IDS button and cycle through the modes to get back to normal. Is there a shortcut to this? The salesman assured me there was but wasn't sure. He said tap the breaks and I tried holding the upshift paddle but no luck.

 

In my understanding no. You'll have to cycle through the modes.

 

I wish they would have done the console shifter more like BMW where one could go into or out of a sport mode and toggle up and down through the gears without using both hands on the wheel. Oh well.

 

does the vehicle stay in the mode you've selected after you turn the car off and back on?

 

Can you change modes while driving?

 

There is a driver customization setting for this. You can have your key linked to either Eco, normal, sport or the last used setting. You cannot keep it in sport+ for longer than one ride for fuel economy rating reasons.

 

Yes when you switch modes while driving you'll notice a shift if your in a higher mode and go down.