My wife's 2007 4 cylinder is a fine car in most respects but has one quirk that I can't stand, although it doesn't bother her at all. When driving along in any road gear, and a need for more power comes up, there is a perceptible pause before the transmission will down shift. I don't expect a neck-snapping jump, but I do expect a response. Doesn't happen- it's like the tranmission is thinking it over for a beat or two before deciding to make the shift, then all is well- but the second or so of dead time is really disconcerting!! Her 87 and 97 didn't exhibit this, they both shifted smoothly and on time.
So- is this a normal thing or back to the dealer??

 

This is a very common complaint. It's caused by the implementation of a throttle-response technology called drive-by-wire.

There is a TSB on this issue. It's #EG056-56. More information can be found here.

 

verrrry interesting- i knew it wasn't normal! so it's back to the dealer armed with the TSB number. Thanks muchly!