[kathyricks]

The Rav4's 8 speed is jerky when subjected to abrupt throttle inputs at low vehicle speeds, just like a manual transmission is, because the 8 speed IS largely a manual transmission! i.e. there is no torque converter multiplication and slippage when accelerating in gears 2 - 8.

This lack of torque converter multiplication and slippage also makes acceleration seem lethargic compared to conventional automatic transmissions of the past, but the benefit is excellent fuel economy.

So owners simply need to accept the inherent jerkiness of the 8 speed - if the driver engages in abrupt throttle inputs at low vehicle speeds - and to consider it a necessary trade off for excellent fuel economy.