I am a little confused by this post (given that it starts with "I hope that answers your question" ... whose question? )

However, since you quoted my post and asked about manual mode I will reply....
... I rarely use manual mode although when I have it seems to behave the same as the (factory) manual mode in my sl55 (including shifting up at redline which is proper in my opinion). Manual mode is a lot of fun on my slk (particularly with the paddle shifters), but I find that sport mode on the eurocharged tuned TCU is great and more convenient for everyday driving (and still a lot of fun with the paddles).

IIRC, the problem(s) with the original tune were funky shifts (2 to 3rd , 3rd to 2nd) and some inexplicable effect on fueling during 1/4 mile runs (both issues seem to be cleared up with the newer tune).

Hope that helps,
Chris