I get what you're saying, OP, but it's really not that bad.

I live at 5000 feet and play in the mountains almost weekly, so I go up to 11,000+ feet with long, steep grades. I lock fifth out suing S mode and it's fine. Slow, but fine in terms of shifting.

As a matter of fact, I like that it sticks in 4th too long wen driving in regular mode. Where I drive, climbs are followed by descents and remaining in 4th going down is better than it upshifting to 5th.

Having said that, I would not mind a supercharged. Thin air and grades like that, plus all my lifts, tires, armor and gear -- let's say I'm usually in the right lane when climbing. Passing a semi is a cause to celebrate.