Yes Jeff, the WRX is not for everyone and it may not feel fast but the truth is in the numbers. Real WRX drivers don’t dump the clutch BTW. Launching is an art and defiantly not for the mainstream drivers, the general public need not apply.
If there was a car that needed a technological transmission, the WRX/STi is it. I wouldn't be keen to give up the full manual of either car (though the Subaru trans is not butter like the S2000, etc, it is still fun) but having "launch control" would be very slick indeed. Were I an engineer, here is how I'd make it work:
At a dead stop, put the shift lever into second gear, push the "launch" button and take your foot off the clutch. Right foot on the gas, left on the brake with the ECU optimizing throttle position and having full control over the clutch. Release the brake and the car launches. The trans self-shifts to 2nd gear and you now have full control. At any time were you to touch the brakes after the initial launch, full manual control is engaged.
Problem? Cost. You'd need computers to operate the clutch and transmission as well as throttle (throttle easy, clutch and trans not as much, but not too bad) and the associated hardware. It would be working with the ESP sensors to provide maximum acceleration with minimum clutch and trans impact (much better than the goober sidestep-the-clutch method that too many use).
Of course, this is why most bracket racers use automatic transmissions or Lencos w/trans-brake. Consistent, traction-maximizing launches. However, those car never see a twisty road...