I really hate this line.
More options is not always better. Sometimes restrictions make for the better experience.
If it was a good idea to change, then it was about the feel of driving. Not because you're supposed to have the choice of just going anywhere with the car instead of a chocobo. They have their uses for a reason.
Personally, I thought semi rails was the right choice. Manual driving was just do you can make a turn if the road splits and you'd rather go there instead. I see reason not to help keep the car on the road. I don't think they got this one right. K think people complained before they understood and they caved to it.
Edit: not a big deal, though.