Look at the new 8 speed autos?

1) Will withstand far more torque than a double clutch of similar weight
2) As Low as 130 millisecond shifts (1st generation)
3) Less maintenance than a DC
4) Far less cost than DC
5) More adaptable to daily driving in traffic
6) less bulk than a DC

Why have a DC? Already obsolete...

Sad but true!!

I've been using paddle shifters since '04. Both direct and indirect hookups. They've evolved tremendously and in the beginning even just the different software tweaks between different mfgs using the same Magneti Marelli sequential gearboxes made a difference. Also had paddles with autos at the same time. The early autos were slow and rather unimpressive to say the least. At least the AMG and reg Mercedes were POS.

The newer ones (at least the Tiptronics) are however impressive. My wife has a Cayenne GTS with an 8 speed and I have a Carrera S with a 7 speed and they shift as fast as the sequentials do and are smooth as shit, especially with downshifts.

I will say this though there is something about the feel of a direct link rather than going through a torque converter. Yes, the autos are much smoother, but coming from an old
heel-n-toe-er I kinda miss the tiny little forward lean and the feel of metal engaging metal.

PS I almost went for the 7 speed manual, but so much more you can do left foot braking I'll never go back.

They've been using paddle shifters on Formula 1 cars for years now! No one is asking to go back to the stick shift. They shift very fast, and, as noted, double declutch as well, probably better than humans. Even Mazda Miatas come with paddle shifters.
Peter.

My current Grand Sport corvette was ordered with the auto after realizing I had to many injuries the last couple of years.
All I can say is WOW. I would never go back to a manual in a sports car, ever.
They are simply amazing. Even my 25 year old son (who made fun of me for ordering the auto) told me he likes it better than the manual after trying it a few times.