manual or automatic for newbie?

[kimona]

For many drivers, the automatic will get as good or better mileage than the stick.

Plus, the Yaris stick isn't the most sophisticated out there. However, with a few mods it can perform reasonably well.

[MadMax]

Originally Posted by kimona

Plus, the Yaris stick isn't the most sophisticated out there. However, with a few mods it can perform reasonably well.

Good point. I wasn't impressed with the manual Yaris I test drove, but it was stock. Maybe I was too used to German manual transmissions but I have been much happier with the auto.

And just because a lot of people chose to drive automatics doesn't mean they can't drive sticks. I frequently get manual transmissions in the rentals I get in Europe, it's no big deal even if it's in the UK where you are shifting with your left hand. It takes a little more concentration, but I haven't lost a bit of my skill in driving a standard shift vehicle due to owning only autos!

Cheers! M2