[warp]

Thanks for the reply. I was looking at the stuff Sir Loin had loaded. In the meantime, I asked blauparts and got the following reply:

The reference to the Mercedes transmission additive under the 724.016 transmission service is an antifoaming additive (BR00.45-Z-1105-06A). Typically, this would be the case when using substandard ATF/DCT fluids. Both dual clutch brands we offer Eurol DCF and Ravenal DCT/DSG are developed with motorsports/racing including the necessary additives in their formulation and do not require additional additives for antifoam. As noted in the product descriptions and characteristics both lubricants feature low foaming under heavy demands and extensive protection against foaming.

I got the revenal fluid, So, that answers that!

 

[warp]

It would be interesting to see if you feel a difference between the stock fluid and the Ravenal. I am looking at using a different fluid than MB one for my next service. I have a 2015, which doesn't spec the antifoaming agent. I know there were a few changes for the 2016+ transmissions, along with a boost in power, of which I am wondering if that is the reason for the necessity of the additive in the later models. I often hear an audible 'whine' when op temp reaches about 180 degF and accelerating quickly. The whine is much more audible when in sport or M mode at 180 deg. Below 170 deg F, I don't recall hearing it.

From what I got from Blauparts, the Ravenal meets factory specs and has antifoaming properties, so the additional anti foaming fluid is not required.
Now, regarding how does it "feel" with new fluid...much better, but there is more to the story. The dealer did my previous transmission service, and I assumed it was done correctly, however, I don't think so. Before I changed the fluid, I checked the levels at the specified temps, 104 and 158 F. The car did not shift well, going from R to F or P to D, etc. It also did not shift smoothly between gears. I thought it was normal since the dealer did the service. When I checked the levels it appears to have been 1 MM low. So, after the change it is much better and smoother in all categories but that may be due to having the proper fluid level vs a different fluid.
I thought about going back to the dealer, but I'm sure they would deny any wrongdoing.