Perhaps CVTs have come further than I realize, but they began being used in small cars and the durability was a concern when compared to the 5 spd manuals they used to put in econoboxes.
I understand the 8 spd auto transmission may be more fuel efficient than a manual transmission, but I'm personally not sold on their cost effectiveness and durability compared to the old 5 speed manual transmissions, either.
Further, I'm also skeptical of the life span of any turbo charged 4 cylinder. Yes, it produces more horsepower, but if I'm paying this much for a new vehicle, I want it to last.