When SMG first came out for the M3 I drooled. So when my wife's Lexus came with paddles I was thrilled to try out the "paddle" method. Well, let's just say I'm not sure I like having to hold the wheel like that all the time. For straight out 0-60 it is probably fine....but I have been known to shift on turns and I just didn't like the hand operation. Maybe I need to try for a week or so.
Please keep in mind that I am not comparing the paddle shifting technologies (they are not comparable), but the simple hand position and operation of shifting.
I just hope they use a tight, short throw gear box in this car. I have gotten used to the incredibly accurate gear box in my 06 Civic Si.
It's for sale BTW
http://www.8thcivic.com/forums/showthread.php?t=47914