The * and - may be your solution to the slow transmission! It's all written up in the owners manual and if the car didn't come with one, this link takes you to one online:
https://az685612.vo.msecnd.net/pdfs/...EN_tp14092.pdf
Briefly, if you push the selection lever over to the left into the "S" setting (Sport) the car will hold gears longer for acceleration. If, while the lever is in this position you move it either backwards or forwards to the + and - the transmission will change gear sequentially like a motorbike. In that way you can drive the box like a manual if it suits you.
Personally I have come to accept the box's shortcomings and concentrate on what it does well and work around what it doesn't do. My 2012 XC70 5D has a little less transmission capability than others who have posted here. It is loath to change down for engine braking when put in to S mode as others say it should but using the + and - solves that problem.