Yes the auto box is old skool style (with a torque converter) but its very fast at what it does. Its not a DSG style double clutch, so that will be why you are feeling some lag. To me this feels more natural, DSG just doesnt feel right to me, its too seamless, doesnt have any character. Once you get used to it, its very quick at what it does, you just need to relearn how it likes to be driven. Once the torque converter is locked up, its like a manual with the clutch engaged, no breaks in the transmission. Its only if you are on/off a lot that it will unlock. Also I find giving it part throttle/small amounts of throttle, it doesnt lock up very quickly, if you give it a good prod it gets the idea