Even the EU is adopting the SUV thing much more so than even a few years ago. I worked in Frankfurt in the 00's and loved noticing just how rare any SUV was. Now they're all over the place. The Cute Utes have changed the game, with a similar foot print to our car, but the higher driving position.
I do think that the R may very well go hybrid for the Mk8 and not offer a manual. In some ways, that could be cool, more fixed rear power than Haldex, better low end torque and a further differential from the GTI. However I suspect the Mk8 will be the last manual GTI too.
I would strongly consider the new Bus if they make it GTI quick with a 250+ mile range. I won't drive an automatic, but I will drive a single speed.