I have tried revising my shifting technique to avoid the problem with second gear. This greatly reduced the number of times it happens, but did not completely eliminate it. This involves pausing deliberately for approx. 1/2 second or more between first and second gears.

If I pull directly (but gently) between first and second without pausing in neutral so the revs can reduce I get very little resistance going into second, but also slight grinding as it engages second gear. My previous car was a 6 speed Audi TT roadster and I can't remember this ever happening with it. I never force the shifter into any gear it doesn't want to engage easily.

I made an appointment with the service department for next Tuesday. I'll update the forum Wednesday.