Tobes,
Sorry my good sir, I was joking about the over revving, although having scanned my downloaded copy of the user manual, I see that it warns about the dangers of putting the car into reverse when travelling forwards - I can't help feeling that is something that the system really should be set up to prevent.
Like you, I've had an automatic for 14 years now and the only time I drove a manual since, for some reason I kept forgetting about the clutch. So far as I can see, the main disadvantage of an automatic box is the power it consumes, with a corresponding increase in CO2 emissions, fuel consumption and VED.
One thing I noticed (with horror, I must say) in my first winter with my X Type auto , was that trying to brake on an icy downhill slope, the car showed no signs of slowing until I knocked it into neutral. It felt like the ABS was fighting a losing battle with the gearbox. I discussed this effect with the dealer who pooh-poohed the idea until he sent one of his minions out to repeat the phenomenon - and he agreed that it could happen. I was so pleased to be believed that I took it no further, other than to remember what to do in the same circumstances. It would be interesting to hear if anyone else has ever noticed something of the sort.
Incidentally, do you now use both feet (as Honest John advises), or just your right foot for brake and throttle, like I do. I'm sure his advice is based on common sense (and if you're learning to drive in an auto it would be sensible) but I think I'd be a danger on roads trying to change the habit of a lifetime.
Ian