I will also jump on the Auto is better then manual band wagon. Yes, manufacturers are switching due to consumer demand, but also they have far less exposure to warranty issues. Manuals can be driven improperly easier, tend to blow through sincros, factory clutches are generally inadequet for heavy use and the impact to the drivetrain as a whole causes a lot of damage. There are so many ways an automatic is better, it is hard to know where to start.

I recently towed 10K to Phoenix with my 05 Titan, and on the steep hills the 5spd Auto kept me from speeding up while going as fast as reasonably possible without using the brakes. When I got back I did the FIRST service...on schedule flush at 105K! Yep, high end Autos now go 100K on fluid changes. As far as off-road? No comparison, autos rule. As far as maintance you have a filter, dipstick, cooler.... Yes, an Auto will cost a pile more to rebuild, but it will be less frequent, with less wear on the rest of the vehicle.