Is there any way to keep the 7-speed automatic in manual? I'm not talking about permanently but not reverting to "E" mode every time I travel too long in manual without shifting up or down.

What am I missing? Just seem crazy not to be able to cruise at 2000 RPM in lower gears (and speed) if I want to - before you ask why I'd want to - to initiate DPF cycle.

Thanks

 

What? You think you know better than the Lug Nuts in Washington? You are lucky that they even let you use the S mode at all. In 2020 you won't even be allowed to steer.
Sorry but that is programmed in.

 

I also find the feature pretty useless for the exact reasons you mentioned. I drove a Volkswagen that was equipped with the DSG tranny and thats how I wish it would act.