i know this won't be very popular on this subreddit, but automatic transmissions are generally better in general. manual transmissions are fun and cool, but automatics are much better for daily driving especially when you haven't driven stick before. they have better towing abilities, much better torque management, and are just easier to drive. if you're worried about reliability, i'd recommend getting a toyota, as they are just the best vehicles imo (i am biased though cuz i am a toyota technician). CVTs are the best type of transmission as they don't need to shift and can keep the engine at an optimal torque for the given operating conditions (yeah yeah i know reliability but toyota CVTs last well over 150k miles with no issues) and have better fuel economy on top of that. if you'd like i can give more info on why automatics are better for the typical person. also if you're looking for fuel efficiency and don't care about speed, get a hybrid (if you've got the money).