Not sure if the 717 has it but it is a very similar feel to CWS on Boeing. The 330 was my first Airbus too, I'm not keen to be honest, at first its a very un-natural way to fly, eventually though like most things it becomes second nature and you realise how little you have to actually touch it (your best mates **** etc).
In gusty/windy conditions the 330 especially can become a handful.
The real joy comes with ECAM mixed with QRH.
Good luck.
