With auto transmissions it's a driving preference thing, I just feel like they always shift at the wrong time. (notable exception is the later Ford CVPIs) For me driving feels wrong without the tactility of working a shifter lever and clutch. And yes there are very good auto transmissions out there that outlast most manual ones.
Also for small sports cars (like my NB Miata) auto transmissions are stupid. period. It's part of the driving experience for this type of vehicle. I don't think I would even buy a Corvette if it was auto, and yes the new midship 'vette is auto only, damn shame
To be fair about CVTs all the ones I've driven have been half-baked slip-o-matic jobs that are doomed to failure (coughNISSANcough).
And finally for the GDI solution, just run port injectors along with the direct ones to wash the crap off the intake valves
