Can someone please enlighten me as to how to use the "Manual" mode in DS?
For example, I am at M1, at which point do I shift to M2? Should I rely on the rev or speed?

I've tried using it a few times and it always feels like I am over-reving the car (shifting too late).
And when I down-shift, it just feels wrong has the rev "peaks" and the car is being slowed too
artificially (does this damage anything?)

what kind of car?

On the rev... and probably don't wanna use M1... just start from M2... for best protection just let the car downshift by itself for now...

My 545 doesn't let me downshift to a lower gear in manual mode if it doesn't like what I am asking it to do. My car won't let me stay in M1 for very long. It always automatically upshift either at red line (when on the throttle hard) or at a lower RPM if I am on the throttle more mildly.

I wouldn't worry about hurting the car too much. It may say it is manual mode, but the car is still has an electronic nanny protecting itself. It won't let you do anything stupid. BTW, if you use manual all the way up to 6th and then stop and forget to downshift it will automatically downshift for you. You'll start off in 3rd gear, but the car won't let you be a complete moron (don't ask how I know this).

i shift my 535 at a little over 6. it seems to fall on its face after that. i always use M1, i dont know what kind of adivce that is. might as well just use D. i use M mode when i want to drive a little more aggressive, which would be the approporate time to use M1

M1 is a granny gear.

???

M1 is a roller, it just gets you moving and then a shift is needed almost immediately! :geek:

Just leave it in DS and mash the pedal. The sport autoshift is quicker than you are. When I had a Step I only used manual mode in traffic with second gear or for engine braking downhill. If you want to manually shift gears get a true manual. :cool:

why do u say that? doesnt m1 have the most acceleration?