When approaching a red light, if I take my foot off the gas to coast, it feels as if the transmission 'downshifts' at around 30mph. I can't actually feel the transmission shifting but there is a definite slowdown in speed, not just a gradual slowdown. Is this normal? I ask as doing the same in the '04 RX it does not do this.

 

Yes. Just like it "upshifts" at pre-programmed speeds / RPMs, it will also "downshift" at pre-programmed speeds / RPMs.

 

You could downshift yourself and save a little brake lining.

 

I'm actually not touching the brake at all, the downshift/slowdown I feel is without braking. My 04 just 'coasts' if I don't touch the brake and slowly decelerates. My 14 will coast and then there is a definite slowdown without braking.

 

The third generation has a more sophisticated transmission that is able to do things such as sense when to downshift, that were not possible back when you 04 was made. It is a benefit, you just need to get used to it.

 

Thanks Clutchless for the explanation- makes more sense now.