Cars House

I have never drove a BMW before, so I do not know if this is normal or not. Last week I purchased a 2003 325i with 6K miles, but I noticed when I am going in slow traffic(bumper to bumper) the shifting from 3rd to 2dn it is hard. It should be very smooth. Is this normal.?
How sensitive is the Auto climate control? Anyone knows if there is any issues with the system.
Thanks
ejs325i (USA)