You can still order your squadmates, like to attack or take cover, even to initiate combo. All explained in the just released gameplay video.
I'd rather have ability to use Squad Powers manually. Never used the attack order in previous MEs, not really. D-pad is awkward, while using left stick to move. But i did rigorously use Squad Powers, never let them even use defensive powers automatically.
This focus on "faster combat" is ridiculous. Fast is not automatically better. More mobility is OK, as an option. Besides, ME2 and 3 were plenty fast with aggressive play-style. Not DOOM fast or COD fast but i doubt MEA reaches for even COD speed, being a third person cover shooter really.
Why take away a tool used by more methodical players?
Honestly smells like modifying the game to attract "dudebros". Remove a thing that makes it
look like there's thinking or strategy
required.
In any case AI cannot be relied on to be tactical and methodical or be prepared for what i need it to do when i need it to do it.