Slickk,
Interesting line up, wouldn't dream at laughing at your number 1 - just look at mine!!!
My brother in law ran an RS4 Avant until recently, he liked it, and as far as I know didn't have any problems.
My Lexus is the very first car I have owned that is a CVT Auto and now, after 4 months ownership I rather like it.
Reason: So much traffic and queueing in my area, IMHO, auto makes it all so much easier!
Sport mode does give me enough 'poke' when I need it, and I like the balanced, not so firm ride that the Exec gives - but each to their own! we are all different.