A 3-pedal manual is neither necessary nor sufficient IMO in rating the car a “sports” one. But the availability of one does put a tick on the “pro” side of the ledger.
A DCT is just the 21st century equivalent of the 3-pedal arrangemet. It is still a manual box, but faster shifting and adds some possibility for automated function and includes electronic overrides to protect engine and transmission. Deals better with today’s torque figures, too.
There’s nothing inherently wrong with an automatic, and ZF is a benchmark manufacturer. But it puts more layers between the driver and their control/feel of the car.
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