Yes, I am getting similar messages from my dealer here in DC ... but then again, early last year the promise was to delivery early this year.

I did a test drive on a Plus Four with stick last year when I was on vacation in Switzerland. Unfortunately, I couldn't drive the automatic as well. Loved the car but the shifting did not feel very good. Could be me, needing to get used to it but having read the feedback here and in other, previous threads, I should be fine with the automatic and pedals, just as I am using it right now in my Boxster.

Having driven both manual & auto, I felt happier with the ratios in the auto, you can also drive it as a semi-auto and have control of the gears (to some extent) anyway

Plus, don't forget the auto gets different engine mapping giving another 50Nm of torque

I agree with Jon and can confirm the BMW 8 speed auto box uses a torque convertor with very slick changes. The six speed manual has extremely high gearing equating to around 45mph/1000 rpm in sixth and of course less torque from engine. The auto version still leaves you with plenty of manual options, sport and sport plus modes allowing use of flappy paddle gear selection.

You can also use the gear lever for manual gear changes.

If I had to order today I’d go ahead with the automatic gearbox

I drive a Plus Four Manual and am very satisfied with it.
It's true that the overall ratio is long, the 6th gear you need only on the highway, a shorter rear axle ratio would be better.
However the engine has enough torque so that the ratios fit and less shifting is needed than for example with the Plus 4, I don't miss an automatic transmission.