Good question, @BY2002. I think the move to a 7-speed manual is a natural progression, especially for the ATS. It would most definitely improve the driving acceleration and fuel economy, therefore resulting in a better overall ownership/driving experience… so the benefit of moving to a 7-speed is most definitely real.
Now, I don’t have any inside info as of this writing, but I think we should expect some changes for the ATS for the 2014 model year; perhaps a 7-speed stick will be among those changes.
I’m basing this on the fact that (as you guys already know) Corvette C7 production commences in the third quarter of 2013; as such, the TREMEC TR6070 for the Vette will go into production around that timeframe. And it just so happens that GM makes model year refreshes during the summer/fall timeframe… so the timing seems to line up for the ATS to get the 7-speed when the C7 is launched.
Personally, I’d love to drive the 2.0T with a seven-speed… would love to!
