Is it "normal" that the gear starts at 1st gear in [D]rive instead of the 2nd gear? This is in auto mode, not using the tip-tronic..

This is the first time I noticed it today.. outside temp was a steady 42-45 F and moved parking spots, felt that the car seems "jerking" when I was stepping on the pedal then looked at the gear indicator and it was in 1st gear.

Is it because of the outside temp? needles on the oil temps are at "0", when the temps are at it's normal operating values it (just) started to 2nd gear when it's idle.

Also, I noticed that when I start the car, the rev meter starts at about 1100 rpm, then drops to about 700-800 rpm at idle when oil temps are at it's "operating values"...

 

it's normal for new 2011 model.

 

Yes, this is normal. Vehicles with catalytic converters will start in 1st gear when the engine is cold. This is heat up the cats as soon as possible so the "catalyzing" action will occur.

Once the cats are at operating temperature, the Cayenne will start off in 2nd gear, that is if PSM is active.

 

it's a 2006 CTT-S.. PSM is ON.. thanks for all the responses..
getting paranoid with all the "new" things i discover with this vehicle.. my first p-car :-)
now with that annoying P0441 code...

 

Also, mine will start in first gear if I'm starting off going up an incline (I back out of my garage onto a slightly uphill street).

 

Yep, colder weather it will start in 1st gear until the engine heats up a bit.

 

thanks all..

@the head.. the P0441 seems to be from the EVAP purge valve canister.. got all the links and diagram from renntech, rennlist and pelican parts.. i'll try to order the part and see..