Its unfortunate the Cupra wasn't for you but its not going to be for everyone. The RS will always sound much better in my opinion and its no surprise you found the performance weak as yours is modified as well as the fact a DSG Cupra is effortless and refined.
I'm into month 13 in my DSG Cupra and still love it. I had a manual Mk2 Cupra for four years which I loved and I wouldn't go back to manual. I agree Sport mode does hold onto the gears to long but I use drive mode 99% of the time which is silky smooth and when I want some spirited driving I use manual mode.
There is a argument to be made on which is the best to drive depending on personal preference but the one thing that cannot be argued is the fact that a DSG will always be quicker than a manual.
Regarding the Ring Lap a manual car was used in the SC but I'm pretty sure the ST Lap was a DSG and was quicker than the SC.
I'm into month 13 in my DSG Cupra and still love it. I had a manual Mk2 Cupra for four years which I loved and I wouldn't go back to manual. I agree Sport mode does hold onto the gears to long but I use drive mode 99% of the time which is silky smooth and when I want some spirited driving I use manual mode.
There is a argument to be made on which is the best to drive depending on personal preference but the one thing that cannot be argued is the fact that a DSG will always be quicker than a manual.
Regarding the Ring Lap a manual car was used in the SC but I'm pretty sure the ST Lap was a DSG and was quicker than the SC.
laborious . 


