I too was put off by not having a manual transmission available. However once you drive the car you will be delighted IMO by the power and control you do have with the autostick. It will allow you to hold gears with ease. It is driver adaptable which is very interesting. My other car is an RX7TT, I drove that car with both an auto and manual before I bought it. In that car the only option IMO is the manual. You will not be disappointed with this car. There are a great group of people on this forum, eager to help and point you in the right direction. The aftermarket will improve with time. besides the price of the SRT's is to good to pass up.