Yup, you got it right zephryn :). I would also mention that the zero system will calculate it's own choice for the best course of action and submit it to the pilot. Think the "Force" from star wars where "You mean it controls your actions? Partially, but it also obeys your command".
Ok, now to decide in this hiro vrs kira thread.
OK, first off. In a situation where neither is expecting any attack, Hiro will have the "first combat" advatage and probably win.
Situation #2: Kira is in seed mode and hiro in a little ms. I think kira would win.
Situation #3: Hiro attacks first while kira doesn’t have seed mode yet. I think Hiro would win.
From looking at their personalities, I have to say that Hiro has the starting advantage.
It gets difficult to truly decide when you start mixing different Gundams into the mix as well.
In the end, I choose Hiro =). We all know though that Amuro can beat both of them even though he isn’t my favorite character.