Well, I've been reading and I've noticed that the tC has a very slow throttle response because of the Drive-By-Wire system. I've felt this in my car, but sometimes when i'm driving say around 45 mph, and speed it up, it'll take like 2 seconds for it to go... but here's my question, sometimes when i press on the gas pedal, it feels like it kicks or sputters, then it will accelerate... Is that feeling normal or is something dirty like maybe my fuel pump or air filter and needs to be cleaned?

 

is your car auto or manual?
The issue is a toss up between the DBW system and heavy components in the drivetraind and powertrain.
If your car is a 5 speed, lightweight flywheel seems to speed up the throttle response.

 

I have an automatic. I'm not that worried about the throttle response, I've gotten used to it. My problem is, before the rpms actually initiate, there's a sudden kick (where the delay is) before the rpms rise.

 

Umm its an auto? Thats what they do.....

 

Overdrive will do that I believe. My old camry did that but I didn't see the same behavior on my friend's accord (which doesn't have overdrive). Sometimes there are kits for autos which are more race tuned and you won't see that behavior anymore but there aren't any for the tC to my knowledge. With practice though you should be able to pick up on the shift patterns of the car and be able to take advantage of the shifting. Also using D1, D2, etc is a good way to avoid that throttle lag.

 

I have a manual and I've realized this delay in kick as well. Not the delay in throttle response but the heavy components would probably describe the delay very well.

 

The tc is a heavy car it is expected.

 

I understand it's heavy but that's not what was described here.

THe lag feels almost like a turbo waiting to spool up and kicks in.

 

Lol all the negative effects of turbo and none of the benefits. I don't feel any throttle delay tho. I have an exhaust, I believe it helps throttle response.

 

1) Heavy components.
2) Slight delay from DBW.
3) Slight delay from transmission computer, evaluating a drop in gear.
4) Slight delay from Torque converter grabbing hold and transfering power.
5) Heavier weight of car to be accelerated.


Honestly, on my manual, I don't think the DBW delay is very significant. It's something you'd only notice if you really looked for it.

 

the car is underpowered and heavy. either get used to it or start power modding it.

 

^ +1