I think it's to do with the drive by wire throttle system, cos some people say it's a bit weird. I always think auto is smoother, but manual always has an edge in performance. I have an auto Euro (not my choice), but if I had a choice, I would always get the manual. Depends on what you're after in a car. I know some Euro owners chose the auto cos they wanted something relaxing to drive after many years of driving manual, but most owners here want a mix of performance and comfort, hence manual.