Wow! I didn't expect such a harsh response on this topic. I have been able to drive a manual trans since I was 14 years old when I used to sneak out in my brothers mustang while on summer vacation. I would have loved to get the manual but the other half can not drive a stick and she is paying for half the car so I choice to make. Get the auto or settle for a RX8. I'll just play around with it a little more to figure out the best ways to use it.