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I have the AT BRZ, primarily because my wife does not drive stick, and we needed our 2nd car to be an auto in case she needed to use it in an emergency. i've driven stick for 30 years, so it's not a 'novelty' to me or a feeling of being more engaged - it's just another way to change gears with its pros and cons. i don't even think about it when switching back and forth between manual and AT, except that my left leg reminds me it's getting more tired in traffic when driving manual.
i have a short daily commute in traffic, so an AT is much more convenient for me to use. the paddle shifters are actually still a 'novelty' to me and i like using them; more so than the shifter. the whole advantage (to me) is not having to remove my hand from the steering wheel. most of my shifts done are before or after turns. the locations of the paddles are fine for me - i use a 9-3 hand position.
other than being able to launch faster from a stop with a manual, i don't find any practical difference between the AT and manual - i can upshift or downshift at will; either from the steering wheel or with the shifter (if i want to simulate more of a stick shift feel), quicker and smoother than i ever did with a manual, and all without using my left foot.
the only time i see anyone given flak for owning an AT is on this forum. no one else i talk to in person cares, or argues different, as there are good reasons on both sides, and it all boils down to personal preference.
if i want to feel fully engaged with my vehicle, i hop on my motorcycle, which basically demands full attention at all times.
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