@Xutvjet yes, I do somewhat know how ATs work, and agree that they operate in a direct connect kind of way much of the time. I was kind of emphasizing the DCT approach, tho, gears and clutches and all that good stuff. Very nifty. I didn't crush the demo M240i I drove but the AT seemed mostly quite fine, and I'm sure I'll be happy with it.
@Sportstick, I reckon they'll take away my keys one day, and when they do, an autonomous vehicle will be more convenient than waiting for the old-guys short bus to show up. Not sure I'll go for 300+ HP and massive torque though. And I hope that day's a long way off.
As for an MT, they are fun. I've avoided driving one for a while now, because I don't want to get sucked in.