We've had this discussion before.

The SD starts in second. Period.

When you press on the pedal, the first 1/4" of travel moves the Bowden cable but does not open the rack. The transmission very quietly does a 2-1 shift. It's almost imperceptible.

You can prove it to yourself, however. Get the vehicle coasting at about four MPH with your foot off the pedal. Lightly press the pedal about 1/4"...........not enough to open the rack. The engine will climb in revs ever so slightly and the vehicle will SLOW DOWN. It has done a 2-1 shift. The first time you try it, it's rather disconcerting.