I test drove one a couple weeks ago. I thought it would be a bit sluggish but not so. Actually I tested the TL 5AT as well as a G35C 5AT. Both ran well in auto mode and sports mode. Before I would have never consided getting an automatic car but now I am intrigued. IT's a bit slower than the 6MT but there will be time when I would appreciate rolling the gears. In the winter I don't need to drive aggressively and might just be very mellow. Hmmm, decisions decisions...

 

Wish you could find a good car right for you! Both cars are good...

 

I've had my 5AT for a month now, and since I'm comfortable that I'm fully through any break-in period, I'm starting to have some real fun with it. The 5AT is great....it's nice not having to shift all the time. The sport-shift, while not even close to a full AT, is really fun to play with. I'm using it more and more everyday. The one thing that I'm undecided on though is that it automtically shifts you from 1st to 2nd and from 2nd to 1st if you don't shift. I guess this is ok, but it's interesting that it doesn't give you that control...

 

I briefly test drove a 6MT and couldn't adjust to the clutch pick up point. I then took a 5AT for a weekend and reazlied that was what I needed to get with the car.

 

I used the manumatic when I first got my car but then after time, I got lazy and just left it in D. You wonder why I got the 5AT instead of 6mt

 

Have had both starting with the 6MT and traded to the 5AT after several months because wife couldn't get used to the manual. While working well, the 6MT does have a stiff and fast clutch and stiff transmission when compared to our Civic 5MT. The stats show the manual putting more horsepower to the ground and being slightly faster in the quarter mile but from the seat of the pants the auto seems stronger. Its the way the transmission shifts that creates this impression. The all season tires ride much better than the Potenzas and are a lot quieter. Unless one is driving a road course, the difference in handling and braking can't be detected on the public roadways and I don't miss the inordinate amount of brake dust from the Brembos.

 

I hated it too, and have had an NSX and own an S2000 - I think the clutch feel is terrible.