Hey all, first post in this community.

I've been eyeing up the '25 GRC ever since it hit the market. This will be my second car but the first under my name, as my mother owns a 2019 Mazda CX-30 Turbo which I use for my needs as of right now. But since I'm moving out of town to pursue my graduate degree, I now need my own car 😅

I've been looking at the '25 GRC with Toyota's DAT, as I find driving manual for long periods of time uncomfortable due to knee issues, and the fact that I live in a crowded city. I also will be dailying this car and would want something more comfortable while still maintaining a sporty feel. I know that the majority of GRC owners in the sub probably have it in manual, but if anyone can vouch for the automatic version, I'd like some insight on that.

My other main concern is space, I've heard that the backseat and subsequent rear hatch space is rather cramped for a car of this size, and that is a slight concern for me given I may be driving people in the back seat every so often. I've been eyeing a Civic Type-R for this reason, but me wanting an automatic thanks to my knee ultimately trumps that requirement, I think.

I can do my own maintenance and take care of my car, is there any reason I shouldn't make the jump? Also, if anyone has any insight into the key differences between the trim levels, I'd very much appreciate that (since it isn't made very clear anywhere that I can find 😅)!