I pretty much agree.

What I have found is that I can live with a CVT when it's paired with a stronger engine, but find them very annoying on smaller, less powerful engines. For example, I recently had a Nissan Rogue loaner for a couple weeks. The CVT in that just seemed to amplify the lack of power and coarseness of the engine. But I've had a loaner Nissan Pathfinder with the V6 and it was fine, as it also is in my sister's Nissan Murano. And while it's a very different animal, I am always surprised at how much of an issue it ISN'T in my Highlander, which has plenty of power.

 

I am willing to bet that most of us on here have absolutely no problem with our transmissions. I would assume that those having these problems are a small minority and need to get it resolved by Lexus.

I have now had two 4GS's with the 8speed, and found the automatic transmission to be one of the best I have ever driven and have had none of the problems noted in this thread. And believe me I am critical and would notice any problem. I would assume that those having these problems are a small minority. I find the 8 speed to be very smooth and usually in the right gear. With Sport Mode and manual shifting capability, etc. it gives plenty of options too.

I have had several Mercedes and did not buy another one specifically since I hated their automatics......upshift way to soon (in any mode) and are very reluctant to downshift, to the point of being dangerous in critical situations. Before I bought my '16 GS F sport, my second choice was the Mercedes C AMG with 369 HP twin turbo.....but transmission sucked (as many reviews also noted ).. so I passed. For 2017 MBZ has now gone to a 9 speed! I've heard it is better, but still may have some hesitation on aggressive driving.

I have found the Lexus 8 speed to be flawless in the two GS's I have owned. I also have an Infiniti G35 coupe with a 5 speed automatic and it is exceptional, always in the right gear and easy to modulate with the gas pedal.

 

My thoughts, if what your feeling is the transmission and nothing is wrong this "jerking" is a good thing and not bad.
In the past I have had transmissions that would slip in the shifts to prevent the shift feel.
If the transmission is slipping it is wearing the clutch material. I prefer it to be a little firm over a soft feel.
It means the clutches will last longer and also it is not contaminating the trans fluid with worn material.
My car does have a firm shift when in the Sport and Sport+ modes.
I like it, now my wife on the other hand does not. Its my car.

 

I believe it's quite normal on any car in a cold morning. Since the transmission oil is cold, changing the gear is a bit hard for the transmission.

 

CVT is annoying... if you want to step on the gas and go... all you hear is high rpms like a 2-stroke moped lol. Just one of the main reasons I dislike the GS450h.. :-(