Re: auto or manual
My preference is the 6-speed manual transmission. I 'm the type of driver that only steps on the brake to let the vehicle behind me know, "Yes, my brake lights do function."
1st to 2nd is short and could be a definite inconvenience in heavy daily traffic. I don't have to do the commuting grind with my XFire. My "company car" is an automatic. I drive my XFire for pure enjoyment and errands like grocery shopping, etc. I have a Hemi Quad Cab for the other stuff.
My XFire interior is all black. I would have purchased the tutone interior in a heartbeat, either white or red, but I was lucky enough to find the exterior color I wanted (yellow) so it was a done deal with the black interior.
I say do whatever will keep you smiling!
Bob