I think it would be prudent for the OP to take an automatic for a test drive
The general consensus among automatic owners is they are the greatest thing since sliced bread, whether or not I was influenced by this when I bought my diesel auto is a matter of opinion.
What is clear to me however is I really don't like the way the automatic behaves in these cars, it's not just one particular car, but every one I've driven since buying one myself exhibits the same (in my opinion) undesirable characteristics.
This is why I would encourage you to test drive one before committing yourself to purchase
Brian
