I've always gone with a manual transmission, but only because I know what I'm doing. As Yorkslad asked...
"Do I like my foot to ache when in long queues of start/stop traffic?"
No, my foot doesn't ache because I keep the car in neutral when in a long queue and only pop it into first when there's actual movement involved and then back into neutral.
"Have you ever driven a tip-tronic auto that gives you the best of both worlds depending on what driving mood your in?"
Yes, and I felt like the car wasn't as powerful starting off.
It's a tough call, though. If your wife will be driving the car, it's best to keep her happy.
